Badger5GNJ
Results 1 to 29 of 29
  1. #1
    jojo's Avatar
    Joker of a Moderator

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Sep 2003
    Location
    Solihull, Midlands
    Posts
    19,553
    Post Thanks / Like

    Audi S3:Eibach vs H&R lowering springs.

    I'm not sure what specs the springs are, not 100% sure if both company's do 2 different rates of springs, but just a quick write up on my findings between the two. Both cars are riding on Bilstein shocks also.

    The Eibachs(my car) are definitely lower at the back than the H&R's, by at least 10mm, but it's the H&R's that's lower at the front, by a similar 10mm at least just looking at it. So we have a car slighty pointing upwards at the front with the Eibachs, and with the H&R setup, it's diving downwards like it's under braking, but parked up of course.

    Driving them back to back, the H&R's are much bouncier, especially at the back end, and looking at the springs through the wheels, the H&R(red springs) seems to have the coils fully compressed and loaded against each other with a black rubber coil protector to prevent damage, and only the lower 2-3 coils offering suspension movement, which would explain the bouncyness. The Eibachs(Black springs) though, despite sitting lower just looks like a normal coil spring and seems to have full suspension travel/movement and slightly progressively wound, so firmer the more they compress.

    The front end of both cars ride reasonably well for being uprated and lowered, but again, the H&R's ride slightly firmer than the Eibachs, just slightly firmer that OEM suspension, not as hard as a coilovered S3 I tried in the past by someway.

    I have to admit, I prefer the front end stance of the H&R setup, but the rear end of my Eibachs, so something inbetween would be ideal, and looking at Tuffty's car riding on APEX springs, that could be ideal, but I've never sat in his car, so can't comment on ride. But with either the H&Rs or Eibachs, both ride very well, as close to OEM ride as you could get going aftermarket, but the H&Rs just felt a bit bouncier over rough roads, the Eibachs are very comfortable.

    Can't really do a handling comparison, as my car is running 19" rims, the other S3 on 18's and also had Forge adjustable tie bars and Neuspeed ARBs, so handles better than mine in the first instance, but even with all these additional mods to aid handling, you still can't feel how much grip the chassis has. It's like the car turns in great and has plenty of grip, but you don't know when or if it will let go, I didn't push it to absolute limit for obvious reasons.
    You've got to have a laugh!

    99' Audi S3(APY) - Brilliant Black, it's back!

  2. # ADS
    ADS
    Join Date
    Always
    Location
    Global
    Posts
    Many
     
  3. #2
    Dansmith's Avatar
    2nd Gear

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Apr 2009
    Location
    Bournemouth, United Kingdom
    Posts
    450
    Post Thanks / Like
    Interesting Jojo! I keep on looking at the H&R and thinking are they worth the extra £100 and if your saying the ebach is a more comfortable ride even with 19's then I'm beginning to think not!

  4. #3
    s3dave's Avatar
    mediator

    Status
    Online
    Join Date
    Nov 2009
    Location
    west yorks
    Posts
    6,957
    Post Thanks / Like
    good info there, im unsure whitch route to take..
    i dony know what springs i have on at the moment there black with pink dots on them??? and the ride seems harsh
    Last edited by s3dave; 15th May 2010 at 14:45.


    ​
    Quote Originally Posted by 16Klappe View Post
    And anyway, less of the thinking because I'm ALWAYS right!

  5. #4
    jojo's Avatar
    Joker of a Moderator

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Sep 2003
    Location
    Solihull, Midlands
    Posts
    19,553
    Post Thanks / Like
    My car, you can see the front is a bit elevated compared to the rear, it rides very well on the Eibachs and 19" rims.(Don't have close ups of the wheelarches over my wheels - sorry)


    Eibach Springs rear


    H&R springs rear


    H&R Stance front


    H&R Stance rear
    You've got to have a laugh!

    99' Audi S3(APY) - Brilliant Black, it's back!

  6. #5
    jojo's Avatar
    Joker of a Moderator

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Sep 2003
    Location
    Solihull, Midlands
    Posts
    19,553
    Post Thanks / Like
    Quote Originally Posted by Dansmith View Post
    Interesting Jojo! I keep on looking at the H&R and thinking are they worth the extra £100 and if your saying the ebach is a more comfortable ride even with 19's then I'm beginning to think not!
    Dan, they are bouncier/firmer, but not so hard you are going to puke up! I drove an S3 with Koni coilovers wound right down running standard 17" Avus rims, and that thing handled! But it's was bouncing left right and centre, like only the tyres was the suspension, so no coilovers for me!
    You've got to have a laugh!

    99' Audi S3(APY) - Brilliant Black, it's back!

  7. #6
    jojo's Avatar
    Joker of a Moderator

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Sep 2003
    Location
    Solihull, Midlands
    Posts
    19,553
    Post Thanks / Like
    Quote Originally Posted by s3dave View Post
    good info there, im unsure whitch route to take..
    i dony know what springs i have on at the moment there black with pink dots on them??? and the ride seems harsh
    Dave, they might be factory fit lowered springs? GmbH spec I think they are known as??
    You've got to have a laugh!

    99' Audi S3(APY) - Brilliant Black, it's back!

  8. #7
    s3dave's Avatar
    mediator

    Status
    Online
    Join Date
    Nov 2009
    Location
    west yorks
    Posts
    6,957
    Post Thanks / Like
    ah cheers mate i will investigate, there coming off anyway its like coilovers without the drop
    Last edited by s3dave; 15th May 2010 at 15:43.


    ​
    Quote Originally Posted by 16Klappe View Post
    And anyway, less of the thinking because I'm ALWAYS right!

  9. #8
    2nd Gear

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Sep 2009
    Location
    West london
    Posts
    379
    Post Thanks / Like
    Same springs as me mate factory ones!

  10. #9
    mark_sarah's Avatar
    Limp mode!

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Nov 2009
    Location
    Norwich
    Posts
    203
    Post Thanks / Like
    Cheers for info guys.. I had my car serviced yesterday, and was informed afterwards that the rear springs have broken!

    My local performance shop recommended EiBach replacement springs.

    Anyone sourced a reasonably priced supplier? My local supplier quoted £150 plus the vat, is this cheap.

    I think yours sit really nice jojo!
    It's better to burn up, than to fade away...

  11. #10
    jojo's Avatar
    Joker of a Moderator

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Sep 2003
    Location
    Solihull, Midlands
    Posts
    19,553
    Post Thanks / Like
    Quote Originally Posted by mark_sarah View Post

    Anyone sourced a reasonably priced supplier? My local supplier quoted £150 plus the vat, is this cheap.
    DPM Performance LINKY

    I think yours sit really nice jojo!
    Cheers!
    You've got to have a laugh!

    99' Audi S3(APY) - Brilliant Black, it's back!

  12. #11
    ikbenben's Avatar
    Belgium S3 driver

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Dec 2009
    Posts
    105
    Post Thanks / Like
    Quote Originally Posted by jojo View Post
    Dave, they might be factory fit lowered springs? GmbH spec I think they are known as??
    Got them too
    2002 S3 BAM Nogaro Blue | Navigation + | Bose SS
    Samco TIP | Forge DV 007p | R32 ARB's | Powerflex dogbone bushes | H&R monotube coilovers
    waiting for a remap

  13. #12
    s3dave's Avatar
    mediator

    Status
    Online
    Join Date
    Nov 2009
    Location
    west yorks
    Posts
    6,957
    Post Thanks / Like
    Quote Originally Posted by ikbenben View Post
    Got them too
    is your ride terrible?


    ​
    Quote Originally Posted by 16Klappe View Post
    And anyway, less of the thinking because I'm ALWAYS right!

  14. #13
    ikbenben's Avatar
    Belgium S3 driver

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Dec 2009
    Posts
    105
    Post Thanks / Like
    Depends on what you call terrible. It's a little more comfortbale then my previous car (Ibiza FR with KW var1 coilovers and low profile tyres) but it's still firm for being standard.
    2002 S3 BAM Nogaro Blue | Navigation + | Bose SS
    Samco TIP | Forge DV 007p | R32 ARB's | Powerflex dogbone bushes | H&R monotube coilovers
    waiting for a remap

  15. #14
    Reverse Gear

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Mar 2010
    Location
    Bristol, UK
    Posts
    2
    Post Thanks / Like
    thanks for the useful thread, im decided on the Eibach springs now, i wonder if anyone knows tho weather i can keep my standard shocks without having too much bounce, cos i really dont wanna look like im driving a pogo stick / have to have back surgery. i understand i am gunna get more than standard i just dont want too much, thanks

  16. #15
    DPM
    DPM's Avatar
    6th Gear

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Jun 2006
    Location
    Newcastle/Durham
    Posts
    3,689
    Post Thanks / Like
    It's always best to get matched springs and shocks but depending on the mileage your standard shocks have covered you should be fine.

    Damian @ DPM Performance
    DPM Performance
    The premier online suspension and performance specialists
    W: www.dpmperformance.co.uk
    T: 01207 561606
    E: sales@dpmperformance.co.uk

  17. #16
    6th Gear

    Status
    Online
    Join Date
    Feb 2008
    Posts
    2,542
    Post Thanks / Like
    I have h&r springs on standard dampers for now. Car has done 100000 miles. Have to admit at first the car felt settled but as the milege piles on the car feels more and more bouncy and unsettled. As soon as I have the funds I will be going bilsten b8 I thinks. If money is an issue as it was with mr I still felt the h&r gave a better ride on standard dampers then oe
    IF the shocks are in good nick.
    2000 AMK S3, Revo'd, forge 007p, H&R's, tarox g88's, ferrodo ds2500's, and in the fastest colour



  18. #17
    Ian W's Avatar
    5th Gear

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Oct 2007
    Location
    Wirral, Merseyside
    Posts
    1,054
    Post Thanks / Like
    Quote Originally Posted by S3 Rav View Post
    I have h&r springs on standard dampers for now. Car has done 100000 miles. Have to admit at first the car felt settled but as the milege piles on the car feels more and more bouncy and unsettled. As soon as I have the funds I will be going bilsten b8 I thinks. If money is an issue as it was with mr I still felt the h&r gave a better ride on standard dampers then oe
    IF the shocks are in good nick.
    Got any pics of your car?

    Are you running rear tie bars?

  19. #18
    Reverse Gear

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Mar 2010
    Location
    Bristol, UK
    Posts
    2
    Post Thanks / Like
    Quote Originally Posted by DPM View Post
    It's always best to get matched springs and shocks but depending on the mileage your standard shocks have covered you should be fine.

    Damian @ DPM Performance
    thats spot on thanks verhy much

  20. #19
    sandip's Avatar
    6th Gear

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Nov 2006
    Location
    Greater Manchester
    Posts
    2,305
    Post Thanks / Like
    I have KW springs but if i had to choose between the two mentioned i'd be going for H+R, the S3's sit very well with these springs I don't go round corners fast so i just like my car to look sweet when it's stood at the lights or parked up lol
    3.2 V6 with Custom Code VVT Attack Software


  21. #20
    sportstractor's Avatar
    Gangsta

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Nov 2009
    Location
    North Devon
    Posts
    2,403
    Post Thanks / Like
    iv got 25mm eibach springs on standard shocks, and it does feel noticeably better round corners. And the stance is perfect. Although I am getting a bit of rubbing on full lock, which could probably be sorted with some wheel spacers


    S3 - Minger AMK - Stage 2 Custom 'R-Tech Powar' Remap - Badger 5 Tip - Welly Cooler - 25mm eibach springs - S4 reps

    "Remember one thing, No matter how pretty she is, Someone, Somewhere is sick of HER SH*T!"

  22. #21
    sandip's Avatar
    6th Gear

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Nov 2006
    Location
    Greater Manchester
    Posts
    2,305
    Post Thanks / Like
    Quote Originally Posted by sportstractor View Post
    iv got 25mm eibach springs on standard shocks, and it does feel noticeably better round corners. And the stance is perfect. Although I am getting a bit of rubbing on full lock, which could probably be sorted with some wheel spacers
    You got a picture bud, would be interest to see your stance
    3.2 V6 with Custom Code VVT Attack Software


  23. #22
    sportstractor's Avatar
    Gangsta

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Nov 2009
    Location
    North Devon
    Posts
    2,403
    Post Thanks / Like
    I will get some pics this weekend dude. I did get some pics when I orignally lowered it, but it seems to have settled down quite a bit since then.
    Last edited by sportstractor; 12th June 2010 at 12:05. Reason: cant spell for shit


    S3 - Minger AMK - Stage 2 Custom 'R-Tech Powar' Remap - Badger 5 Tip - Welly Cooler - 25mm eibach springs - S4 reps

    "Remember one thing, No matter how pretty she is, Someone, Somewhere is sick of HER SH*T!"

  24. #23
    sandip's Avatar
    6th Gear

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Nov 2006
    Location
    Greater Manchester
    Posts
    2,305
    Post Thanks / Like
    Quote Originally Posted by sportstractor View Post
    I will get some pics this weekend dude. I did get some pics when I orignally lowered it, but it seems to have settled down quite a bit since then.
    Cool Good point about when you first lower it, mine looked exactly the same when i put mine springs, settled down alot since thank god! lol
    3.2 V6 with Custom Code VVT Attack Software


  25. #24
    jojo's Avatar
    Joker of a Moderator

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Sep 2003
    Location
    Solihull, Midlands
    Posts
    19,553
    Post Thanks / Like
    Further time with the H&R's on a trip to Manchester and back in the same day gave me a sore back! I kid you not!! Never had such problems with the Eibachs, so maybe they are a bit firmer than I thought.
    You've got to have a laugh!

    99' Audi S3(APY) - Brilliant Black, it's back!

  26. #25
    6th Gear

    Status
    Online
    Join Date
    Feb 2008
    Posts
    2,542
    Post Thanks / Like
    Quote Originally Posted by Ian W View Post
    Got any pics of your car?

    Are you running rear tie bars?
    No tie bars yet mate but all on the "to do" list as funds allow.

    Best pics ive got are on this thread.

    http://www.audi-sport.net/vb/showthr...go...be-gentle...

    HTH
    2000 AMK S3, Revo'd, forge 007p, H&R's, tarox g88's, ferrodo ds2500's, and in the fastest colour



  27. #26
    Works 60% the time, Everytime.

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Jul 2008
    Location
    Up North
    Posts
    1,569
    Post Thanks / Like
    H&R springs + B8 dampers

    Mostly short drives but its very similar to standard. Off to Germany in August so that'll be the real test.


    2003 Audi S3 + Go faster bits

  28. #27
    funnyclub's Avatar
    Neutral

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Apr 2010
    Location
    Ireland
    Posts
    65
    Post Thanks / Like
    Quote Originally Posted by MintyS3 View Post
    H&R springs + B8 dampers

    Mostly short drives but its very similar to standard. Off to Germany in August so that'll be the real test.

    Mate your car is sweet looking. What wheels are they by the way?

  29. #28
    ikbenben's Avatar
    Belgium S3 driver

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Dec 2009
    Posts
    105
    Post Thanks / Like
    Quote Originally Posted by MintyS3 View Post
    H&R springs + B8 dampers

    Mostly short drives but its very similar to standard. Off to Germany in August so that'll be the real test.
    I'm interested in this set up too. Is the space between the arches at the front and back similar?
    2002 S3 BAM Nogaro Blue | Navigation + | Bose SS
    Samco TIP | Forge DV 007p | R32 ARB's | Powerflex dogbone bushes | H&R monotube coilovers
    waiting for a remap

  30. #29
    Works 60% the time, Everytime.

    Status
    Offline
    Join Date
    Jul 2008
    Location
    Up North
    Posts
    1,569
    Post Thanks / Like
    Quote Originally Posted by funnyclub View Post
    Mate your car is sweet looking. What wheels are they by the way?
    BBS RSII

    Quote Originally Posted by ikbenben View Post
    I'm interested in this set up too. Is the space between the arches at the front and back similar?
    The back is a tiny bit lower. I expect the front to settle with all the weight and I also put new top mounts on so its no suprise.

    2003 Audi S3 + Go faster bits

 

 

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •  

Garage Plus, Vendor Tools vBulletin Plugins by Drive Thru Online, Inc.

Content Relevant URLs by vBSEO