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2025 c3 ('68-'73) of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2025 C4 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
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Everyone loves Bilsteins but I think they're pricey. For a "street" car Id go with KYB, Monroes, or AC Delco. Bought a set of Monroes from Rock Auto for $90 for my 96 recently. Work fine for my sedate driving.
Bilstein especially with a fiberglass monospring. The stiffer rear spring rate springs will prefer the "sport" shocks usually spec'd for lowered cars. The softer rate rear monosprings can use the "heavy duty" standard shocks. Front shocks are "heavy duty" standard shocks either way.
After trying ordinary shocks with the new fiberglass spring and then paying up for the Bilsteins later, I agree with them costing more. They are worth the expense. Gives a comfortable sporty ride.
Steel rear leaf spring can use the heavy duty on all 4 corners.
2020 Corvette of the Year Finalist (performance mods)
2019 C3 of Year Winner (performance mods)
2016 C3 of Year Finalist
If you have super velvet smooth, laser straight roads where you live, AC Delco or any walmart brand would be fine. But if you have any bumps, pot holes, curvy roads or fun on ramps and drive like its a sports car then Bilstiens are worth the cost....
If you intend to keep the car for a long time, go with the Bilsteins. If you intend to sell it within 2-3 years, go with Monroe Gas-Matics or similar lower cost options.
Just replaced all four shocks on my 1975 coupe with Monroe OE spectrum units. Ride is great..... so far, so good on these mid priced units.
I have Bilsteines on my '67 vert, and yes they do improve ride on that particular car if you can afford them.
Just installed new shocks. I went with the Monroe OE spectrum. Shocks perform very well, great confident ride, even in twistys. The spectrum is also the correct 14.25 length, something to consider.