Suspension Upgrade

[Madd Fajita]

So I think I need new shocks (particularly in back) for my 1997 328i. I was wondering what people had done for upgrades. These are the ways I might go about it:

•Get slightly better Bilstein Touring class shocks ($309) and leave the ride height the same.
•Get Bilstein (or similar brand) shock and spring kit ($599) which will lower 1"-1.25"
•Get Bilstein (or similar brand) coil over kit ($825-$1000) for adjustable between 1" and 3"

I was wondering if when a coil over shocks eventually needs replacing, do you have to replace the whole thing again (another $900 dollars), or can you replace/rebuild just the shock part of it? Also, how hard is it to adjust coil-overs, do you need to take the wheels off each time? Do you consider the price difference between Bilstein and a brand like Koni translates into real quality, or would the difference be not noticeable except on a time sheet at a road course?

I'll also be going to 17" wheels this summer, if that counts in the figuring.

 

[Bimmer Pilot]

I think that a good drop is always pleasing. I have the same model and am considering the H&R Cup Kit

From what I hear, it has a nice blend of looks and feel...

 

[VANCE]

definetly gotta drop it down to close the gap between the wheel well and tire..koni is a very popular chioce also...if you want coilovers the ground control kit seems to be the way to go...bilsteins are very harsh for an every day driver

 

[Madd Fajita]

Is there anything else I will need to change if I lower it? Is camber and etc. adjustable with an alignment, or do I need camber and other suspension kits?

 

[Bimmer Pilot]

I'd also look into an X-Brace.

 

[VANCE]

you need to get the adjustable camber plates. if you drop it you nwill have negative camber in the rear. your rear ties will wear out much faster.