Stueck

what is the difference between coilocers and springs and shocks? i dont really feel like paying 1500$ for a set of coilovers. is there a MAJOR difference or just a minor? im looking for some shocks/springs for an 02 protege DX, any suggestions?


thanks in adv.

eggynatey

If you plan on taking your Protege to the track, then the adjustability(camber, height, etc) of coilovers makes them worth the money, if you just want to lower your car and maybe pick up a few MPH on the onramp, springs and struts are plenty good.
Also, coilovers are usually more stiff than springs and struts. For a daily driver, a good set of Tokicos and Teins would be great! I have JIC FLTA2 coilovers on my P5 and they're pretty stiff. Not punishing, but I can definately feel the gaps on the superslab type freeways.

All-out performance...Coilovers(REAL ones, like JIC, Tein)
Better performance plus some ride quality...Springs and struts.

macdaddyslomo

go for the MSP suspension setup...full kit with springs, struts, and sways will run you like $900...you wont be able to dial in better with coilovers unless you have an automotive engineering degree and some serious tools

eggynatey

I agree...for everyday driving, but it sure is nice to dial in some camber for the track!

Stueck

so they arnt coilovers and i cant camber them?

macdaddyslomo

coilovers wont give you camber adjustment either..there are camber kits avail however

Stueck

so just the MSP setup and its good?

eggynatey

Here's a pic of my engine bay. Notice the JIC camber plates.

The rears are slotted so I can adjust them on the fly too. A true coilover will be adjustable all the way around. Ground Control, Skunk2, etc are all just for lowering/show as far as Proteges are concerned. Zeal, JIC & Tein are the real deal.

I'm not trying to argue or anything, but my JIC/AWR clad P5 can whoop MSP ***. I did it at Laguna Seca, and I do it on Hwy9 all the time.

Don't get me wrong, though. I ain't knocking the MSP set up one bit! I pay the price in clunks squeaks and harsh(er) ride. Like I said before, for a car that's an everyday driver, the MSP suspension is a great choice. Also, mackdaddy's right, there are camber kits available, too.

Stuek, Check out www.autoRnD.com for all the suspension and JDM goods you'll ever need. Rishie is helpful, easy to deal with and super knowledgable in Protege suspension and wheels.

macdaddyslomo

well yes but the JIC's are more than just a coilover setup,and ALOT more expensive...when he said coilovers I'm thinking GC's

TheJackyl

eggynatey whered you get that mazdaspeed strut bar and how much???