ft2057

What are the biggest suspension upgrade for our cars? I've read that a lot of the bars and braces available really doesn't make much a difference.

altiain

The best suspension upgrade, dollar for dollar? A performance alignment.

ft2057

Really? Thats it?

I was just looking for something that would make a big difference in handling. I figure that $200-$600 per suspension upgrade wouldn't be worth it if it were just a small difference from stock.

altiain

Really.

Shock tower braces and/or x braces have a negligible impact on handling, especially on an S2k with near stock spring rates and street tires. They may have a minor impact on ride quality, but that

Clovis

Altiain is providing some good guidance here. A performance alignment and the best tires you can afford is the best starting point. Note, 205/55-16 front and 245/45-16 rear is the best setup for the 16's. The 225/50-16 is a bit narrow in the rear as the stock S02 was wider than indicated Aside from that, a nice set of performance brake pads can increase stopping power at the expense of a little noise and dust.

It takes about $500 for good springs and another $2,000+ for dampers that really improve upon the S2000's already decent setup. You could also consider a stiffer front sway bar once you get that alignmet. Whiteline is a good choice and the price is right.

turbolane

I third the alignment / tires recommendation. The UK spec is a noticable improvement over the US spec.

After that the best mod/cost I found was my DiGrappa xbrace (I didn't feel any difference with two other xbraces I tried). I have a stiffer front swaybar as well, but I didn't notice a difference with it alone.

One thing I've learned is that some mods require other mods before they are effective; for instance my KW suspension doesn't do much with my street tires, but make a huge difference with good R compounds.

ft2057

Thanks guys for your input, this information is exactly what I've been searching for. I'm considering getting the H&R coilover setup for street use and 17x7 front and 17x8 rear setup. I'm fairly confident this setup will be provide me with a decent suspension, but I don't have any knowledge about tires and the ideal size to use for this setup. Anyone have any input on the type/size of tires I should use for a decent price?

Could you also provide me with Autoscope's number Altain?

altiain

Better yet, I'll send you their link: Autoscope.

They aren't cheap, but they do good quality work.

ft2057

Thanks again altain, although I'd prefer them to be cheap I'll check them out anyways.

viets2k

I agreed with others above. If you want to go w/ cheaper route on the suppension then i would definitely recomment the SWIFT (swift w/ stock suppension + good alignment shop = $600). When i had the swift on my S i didn't even alignment the car (ue to the front splitter was too low to get on the ram), and the tires still wearing out evenly. You won't see where as the inner is wearing out more than the outer or the outer wearing out more than the inner.