blame springs or dampers most

[notout86]

Great info. thanks people. I am especially happy to hear that the o.e. springs are soft, meaning I need only change dampers and that should do me (and the wife).

[Decep]

You can also get the newer coil springs like i did, rides a bit stiffer in the front but the rear is much less annoying on bad roads.

[notout86]

I have just got a reply from Koni on their " Front 8741-1560SPORT and Rear Part No. 8041-1416SPORT ". He obviously understood exactly where I was coming from and explained that even though they are adjustable they would not make the '86 ride like a VW GTI . I appreciated that info. very much as he could have easily sold me a set.

I do not doubt, for one minute, the opinions of people who have said certain dampers felt better ... it seems like it comes down to the "feel" that makes the difference, for instance suppleness rather than softness and/or differences in compression or rebound. It seems clear too that the o.e. Sachs leave much to be desired. Meanwhile a tire change from the o.e. Michelin Primacys to something with softer side walls will be my next move soon, and I will be keeping an eye out for someone who produces an adjustable damper with a range starting from truly soft to cater for people like me who should have got a VW GTI in the first place (except that I tried one and it was so boring).

[Allch Chcar]

I've driven some bombed out backroads. Bumps are not a problem. It jiggles even on "smooth" roads. Then there's that one highway that feels like I'm riding waves. I'm looking at something with different dampers. Not sure if I want to open that can of worms and go with coilovers or even adjustable dampers. It's my daily driver so comfort is all that matters. Maybe I'll wait until she needs new shoes.

Driving faster seems to help. But I can't go much faster.

[JIM THEO]

Originally Posted by strat61caster

OE springs are as soft as you'll get, aftermarket is stiffer. Maybe if koni offered their fsd that'd be the way to go but idk, everyone who buys a sports car wants to make it sportier, not softer. I agree, OE ride is pretty sub par.

Similar if not better are the Showa Tuning Evoluton or the more comfort Showa Tuning Comfort!
Or if you want something sportier but still comfortable and can afford it the Ohlins R&T.