Let's talk S4 suspension swap onto a S.
08-01-2003, 03:25 PM
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Let's talk S4 suspension swap onto a S.
Hey everyone, I currently have the keys to a 1986.5 928S Auto 
Well, looking for some suspension upgrades and the first thing I looked at was new stock stuff, i.e. shocks, springs, etc. But now I realize that another option would be a complete suspension assembly from a later model S4 as opposed to new stock S pieces. Has anyone "upgraded" to this -- assuming that it does provide some improvement -- suspension setup? Review and experiences? Does it seem worth it to swap the suspension, or would it be better to go with the new stock stuff? As you can probably tell, I'm new to the "shark" world and hope to learn as I go.
Thanks for the time!
Well, looking for some suspension upgrades and the first thing I looked at was new stock stuff, i.e. shocks, springs, etc. But now I realize that another option would be a complete suspension assembly from a later model S4 as opposed to new stock S pieces. Has anyone "upgraded" to this -- assuming that it does provide some improvement -- suspension setup? Review and experiences? Does it seem worth it to swap the suspension, or would it be better to go with the new stock stuff? As you can probably tell, I'm new to the "shark" world and hope to learn as I go.
Thanks for the time!
08-01-2003, 03:39 PM
#2
Nordschleife Master
I'm confused: do you have the early '86 S, or the later "86.5" S4? Both?
The advantage of the S4 suspension is that it has bigger, better brakes. There's some debated on what the difference is and how valuble it is. I'd like to have a firm criteria for this like wheel diameter, but unless you've got more tire than brakes, it won't help you to increase braking force.
What do you plan to do with the car?
The advantage of the S4 suspension is that it has bigger, better brakes. There's some debated on what the difference is and how valuble it is. I'd like to have a firm criteria for this like wheel diameter, but unless you've got more tire than brakes, it won't help you to increase braking force.
What do you plan to do with the car?
08-01-2003, 04:00 PM
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Originally posted by GlenL
I'm confused: do you have the early '86 S, or the later "86.5" S4? Both?
I'm confused: do you have the early '86 S, or the later "86.5" S4? Both?
08-01-2003, 05:33 PM
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Nordschleife Master
Yes. The switch-over occured in the middle of the 1986 model year. "86.5" means a later car that is an S4. An early '86 would still be the S.
08-01-2003, 05:40 PM
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A car is designated 86.5 wiht the last 4 digits of the VIN are over 1000 correct? Or is it the numbers in the top left of the vin plate in the driver side door well?
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08-01-2003, 07:27 PM
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Originally posted by goodspeed928
Over 1000 is 86.5
Over 1000 is 86.5
Back to the question. Is the S4 suspension assembly a worthwhile upgrade ?
08-01-2003, 07:38 PM
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08-01-2003, 07:42 PM
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Yes it is a worth while upgrade. The bigger brakes are fantastic. Currently my '86.5 rides and handles worse than my '86, but that is due to improper ride height and worn out shocks, bushings,etc. That will change, soon!
08-01-2003, 08:08 PM
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Yeah, the brakes are a big bonus, but as far as suspension goes, is it really much better than the "S" suspension? If you were going to drop the $ on suspension, wouldn't it be better to get the Eibachs, or a sway bar, or new wheels and tires?
I guess it depends if the brakes are a big deal, or if better handling is the goal...
I think it real-world situations, the brakes would be a more useful upgrade.
I guess it depends if the brakes are a big deal, or if better handling is the goal...
I think it real-world situations, the brakes would be a more useful upgrade.