The BMW E36 is one of the most iconic platforms in the drifting, racing, and tuning world. Whether you own a 318, 325, 328, or the legendary E36 M3, suspension is the backbone of its performance. Coilovers have become the go-to upgrade for enthusiasts who want more than just lowering springs – they deliver adjustability, control, and race-proven handling. But what exactly makes E36 coilovers the best suspension upgrade you can make?
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What Are Coilovers and Why Are They Better Than Springs?
A coilover combines a shock absorber and spring into one integrated unit. Unlike lowering springs, which simply drop ride height, coilovers give you the ability to adjust ride height, spring preload, and often damper stiffness. This means you can fine-tune your E36 for street comfort, aggressive track handling, or drift stability.
For example, drift coilovers for the E36 typically use stiffer front spring rates for steering precision and slightly softer rear rates to maximize forward grip – allowing for more angle and smoother transitions on track.
Benefits of E36 Coilovers
- Adjustable ride height: Slam your E36 for stance or set optimal clearance for track use.
- Improved handling: Tighter body control reduces roll and keeps your tires planted.
- Camber and caster adjustment: Many coilovers include adjustable top mounts, essential for drift setups.
- Durability: Proper coilovers are built to withstand the stress of competition drifting and racing.
- Versatility: One kit can be tuned for street, track, or drift depending on your needs.
Coilovers for Street, Track, and Drift
Not all coilovers are created equal. Street coilovers prioritize comfort and lowering aesthetics. Track coilovers focus on lap times, featuring stiff spring rates and damping designed for high-speed stability. Drift coilovers are a balance between both – they provide front-end precision while maximizing rear grip for smooth, controlled slides.
Drift Coilovers vs Street Coilovers – What’s the Difference?
Many beginners assume drift coilovers make drifting easier. In reality, drift coilovers don’t make initiating a drift easier – they make drifting faster and more controlled. If your goal is simply to slide, a stiff rear street coilover setup may help. But if you’re competing or want pro-level control, you’ll need a drift-spec E36 coilover kit.
Drift-spec coilovers typically feature:
- Higher front spring rates for steering accuracy
- Softer rear spring rates for forward bite
- Independent rebound and compression adjustability
- Heavy-duty construction for clutch-kick abuse
Installing Coilovers on an E36
Installing coilovers on a BMW E36 is a straightforward process if you’re mechanically inclined. Basic steps include removing the OEM struts and springs, installing the coilover assemblies, and adjusting ride height before performing a proper alignment. For drift or race use, a custom alignment with more negative camber up front, slight toe-out, and adjusted caster is essential. Toe plates and camber gauges are extremely useful here.
The Best Coilovers for E36 – Our Recommendation
At SLR Speed, we design coilovers specifically engineered for drifting and racing applications. Our SLR Drift Spec Coilovers for E36 are built to handle the abuse of high-angle drifting while offering the precision needed for competition.
Whether you’re building a street drift car, a weekend track toy, or a pro-level competition E36, our coilovers deliver the adjustability, strength, and grip you need to push your BMW to the limit.
Final Thoughts
The BMW E36 remains a favorite chassis worldwide, and the right coilover setup can transform it into a drift monster or track weapon. From improved handling to dialed-in suspension geometry, coilovers are not just a mod – they’re the foundation of your build. Don’t settle for lowering springs or generic kits – upgrade to E36 drift coilovers designed by SLR for real motorsport performance.
