I'm contemplating doing the suspension on my 108k mile '93 base FD (currently has original struts/shocks and springs) without breaking the bank.

I had Tokico Illumina strut/shocks and Eibach Pro Kit springs installed on the FD I owned prior to my current. I liked the setup, but found it a little harsh on the New England roads. I plan to use the car on the street but would like to be able take it to an occasional autox or track day.

It appears that Tokico sells 2 kits (Illumina and HTS) that includes springs. The HTS appear to sell for about $200 more than the Illumina. Does anybody have either kit installed? Does anybody have any idea what are the rates for the springs included in the kits? Is the HTS worth the extra $$$? Also based on the feedback in this forum, it appears that the Apexi N1 EXV coilovers are also pretty well regarded, and not too much more $$$. With 12k springs would they be significantly stiffer?

Thanks!

 

i have used the Dspec/HTS dampers on a variety of cars. Not on the FD but i absolutely love those dampers. Any lowering spring you find is going to be about half the spring rate of those EXV's. Intuitively it should ride softer.

If you don't like your roads with Tok/Eibach then don't buy coilovers. If this is a DD and sees salt/snow and you're not good about cleaning your suspension pieces then don't get coilovers.

Because I got such great results on STI/WRX/RX8 I would suggest going with Tokico HTS and some swift springs. Wow they are so nice. It might cost as much as a coilover but the quality differences are astounding. Plus it's a no maintenance kind of mod. With coils it's inevitable that you will need to care and clean them.

Rishie

 

Why choose Swift springs over the other brands say H&R, for example ?

 

The Swift springs just feel real nice. Great ride quality, lightweight spring with lots of stroke. Their spring material is probably better than the H&R. I personally haven't had great experiences with H&R Springs, but then again I haven't used them on a FD.