Suspension/Handling Question

[gyrospeed]

Not sure if the has already been asked elsewhere but I couldn't find it if it was.

As we all know, the MSP stock is one of if not the best handling car in its class. My question is, if i were to put different springs and shocks or just coilovers on the car, would it affect the handling of the car? I just don't want to put coilovers on the car and then feel that the handling isn't as good. I don't plan on buying cheap coilovers either (probably buying JIC or Tein). Any help would be much appreciated.

Did switching springs or putting coilovers in your MP3's affect the handling?

 

[njaremka]

JIC or TEIN will probably improve the handling, if set up correctly. anything else will most likely degrade the handling.

 

[Newf]

Personally, I think your nuts for even considering. Why anyone needs a suspension better then what's already on it is beyond me. They found a perfect combination of sharp handling, little body roll, and confortable ride in the mp3. Owning one, I can honestly say, there's nothing wrong with it as it is. My understanding is that the MSP is a little stiffer.


Personally, I'd consider it a waste of money. Spend it on other things.

 

[gyrospeed]

The reason why I am considering it is because I want to be able to lower the car to any height I want without losing the already superb handling. From the pics that I've seen so far, I think that the car needs to sit a little lower.

 

[Limited Edition]

if you get the real coilovers, i don't see why it would not handle better...have the correct setting in stiffness, and it should be better...i agree that MS-P could be an 1 or 2" lower...
but then again, you sacrfice going over speed bumps and dropping into a manhole or what not...it could give a shock to down your spine..

 

[JasonH]

When upgrading the suspension on the MSP, you're already in the area of diminishing returns. Meaning, you're going to have to spend a lot and do a lot to make it only a little bit better. For spirited street driving, this suspension setup might be the best.

Won't it sit lower if you just replace the springs? Find a spring with a similar rate but shorter and you can have your drop but keep your handling. Do you really need the extra adjustability of coilovers? Most people don't.

 

[APEXistud]

JIC's will be a good way of increase the handling capabilities on the MSP. You can fully adjust those babies. They'll let you lower your car and not affect the dampening of the strut. If you're going to buy coilovers for your MSP, definately go with JIC's. Teins will also be great and save you a bit of change, but they won't give you the adjustability of the JIC. They never will either.