Integra Lowering Springs Vs. Coilovers
There are two ways to go about lowering an Acura Integra, both of which, when done properly, will result in a better handling, more responsive car. There are, however, a few factors to keep in mind.
Other People Are Reading
-
Lowering Springs
-
The most common method is to simply install springs that are lower and to varying degrees (depending on the type) stiffer. These simply replace the stock springs on the Integra.
Considerations
-
Lowering springs are cheaper than coilovers. Prices start at just over $100 for a set and go up to several hundred dollars for high-quality springs. The coilovers come in a wide range of stiffness and height---from near stock height and relatively soft to low and race car stiff.
One limitation of lowering springs on an Integra is that there is no way to adjust the stiffness or height. The only way to change these two parameters is by installing a different set of springs and or shocks. While it is not necessary, it is also recommended that when you install lowering springs to also install stiffer shocks. The stock shocks are designed to work with stock springs, which are softer than aftermarket lowering springs.
-
Coilovers
-
"Coilover" is short for a coil-over-shock arrangement designed to be multi-adjustable. A coilover replaces the stock springs and shocks---or struts where applicable. The coilover design is derived from race cars and is a far more sophisticated design than a MacPherson strut.
Considerations
-
One of the largest benefits of coilovers for an Acura Integra is that they are multi-adjustable---the owner can set them to personal preference. Depending on the brand, settings that can be changed include height, rebound and compression. One downside of coilovers is the steep price, which can range from $1000 to $1500 or more for a set. The ride quality of some brands of coilover can be stiff and noisy, especially on the street. Thanks to more companies making coilovers for street use, however, some of the higher-end kits can actually be quite comfortable and compliant enough for regular street use, particularly if the settings are kept on the conservative side, i.e. softer rather than firmer. Coilovers are also perfect for show cars, since they can be lowered for a show and then returned to a streetable height.
Springs or Coilovers?
-
The choice between the two boils down to two main factors: price and intended purpose of the Integra. If the car is used mainly for normal street driving, lowering springs are probably fine. On the other hand, if you plan on using the car regularly for autocrossing or track days at a racetrack, or to show the car, it may be worth it to have the added adjustability of coilovers.
-
