PRC

Thank you for your clarification. I have no interest in parochial argumentation; only to seek advice (kindly given, thank you), to help me decide how to proceed. The advice given has been very helpful.

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New dampers (Koni Sport, adjusted half-turn front and full-soft rear), radius arms (Superpro), bump stops (BMW performance) and rear shock mounts (OEM) now fitted, along with a fresh set of Pilot Sport 4 tyres (36 psi). The car is now settled when driven, and it is quieter and more comfortable than before too. Thank you for all the advice, which has been most helpful.

Thanks John. My suspension specialist thought the bushes in the rear all ok (an in situ check). But he will check them again when the dampers and radius arms are fitted.

Thinking ahead to fitting the new Koni Sport dampers, radius arms and tyres.... Keen to hear any guidance about fitting the rear dampers, including what interior panels need to be removed? Thank you in advance.

Koni dampers arrived yesterday (8 days from UK, thanks Demon Tweeks and Parcel Force), so everything Is now on hand for fitment next week. ?

about £143 each.

Order for Koni sport adjustable shocks placed (via Demon Tweeks). BMW performance bump stops, and Superpro radius arms complete with bushes etc. will be ordered tomorrow. Now we wait.

Thank you. My suspension guy is checking with Stocks and I'll check Demon Tweeks for a private import comparison. Like you, my preference is to shop local (less hassle!). Also, we are checking option of radius arms complete v. replacement bushes (both are available from Superpro, apparently).

Visited my suspension and brakes specialist today for a detailed assessment. The dampers, bump stops and radius arm bushes are worn, and everything else is in good condition. So, fewer new parts required than first thought: Koni sports adjustable dampers BMW Performance bump stops Superpro radius arm/bushes Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres Any recommendations on best source for Koni dampers? A NZ supplier preferred, but will order from reputable off-shore supplier if no local recommendations. Thanks.

No budget. Current dampers (and probably bushes) are worn, and have decided to retain the car for the foreseeable future. Options having read responses here and elsewhere: OEM dampers and bushes Koni adjustable dampers and OEM bushes Will also order a new set of tyres at the same time.

Our current BMW is a 2006 130i; New Zealand-new, with full BMW dealer service history (excepting one WOF). Colour: Le Mans Blue Interior: 'Boston' black leather Options: S704, S339, S337, S710, S715, S441, S470, S473, S430, S431, S481, S411, S494, S459, S493, S4MG, S644, S609, S620, S540, S548, S534, S520, S502, S508, S522, S2MG, S249, S874, S775, S925, S9AA, S864, S853, S818, S302, S321, S825, S880

Just read through various comments (and thanks to contributors). How do Koni FSD and Sport (adjustable?) compare with Bilstein B4 then?

Thanks. I found this thread earlier this morning and will read it later.

Thank you, appreciate the lesson.

I'm after predictable town and open road handling and ride quality—general driving. Thanks for the endorsement of Superpro bushes. From your description, a combination of Superpro bushes, and OEM bumpstops and rear shock mounts sounds OK. Didn't understand basis for OEM rear spherical bushes... why not Superpro? And front ARB bushes?

Keen to hear recommendations ahead of replacing worn dampers and suspension bushes on the 130i. After initial research, I’m leaning towards Bilstein B4 dampers. But what about bushes, bump stops, &c.? Do aftermarket brands such as Superpro offer handling and ride quality benefits over OEM items, or are they false economy for road use? Finally, what other parts should be checked/replaced at the same time? FYI, a new set of Michelin Pilot Sport 4 (stock sizes) will be fitted too.

Thanks. Do you have a contact name or any other information?

Wanted to buy: an E30 M325i mtech2. Interested in buying a largely original or fully restored example in mint condition and—ideally—with history. I appreciate there are only a few left in the country. Many thanks, Peter.