Coilovers vs Lowering Springs: What’s the Better Suspension Upgrade?

When it comes to improving the look, feel, and handling of your car, suspension upgrades are one of the first things enthusiasts reach for. But which is better: coilovers or lowering springs?

If you're building a drift car, a track weapon, or even just want better control on the street, the decision matters. Let’s break it down and explain why coilovers — especially SLR Drift Spec Coilovers — might be the smarter move for performance and adjustability.

The Difference, Simplified

Feature	Coilovers	Lowering Springs
Height Adjustable	✓	✗
Damping Adjustable	✓	✗
Camber Plates Included	Sometimes	✗
Spring Rate Tunability	✓	✗
Ride Quality Control	Tunable	Static
Alignment Correction	Easier	Harder
Designed for Drifting	✓	✗

What Are Lowering Springs?

Lowering springs are replacement springs designed to drop your car’s ride height, reducing wheel gap and sometimes improving handling slightly.

But they rely on stock shocks — and when those wear out, the ride gets bouncy fast. There’s no way to adjust anything. You're stuck with the drop and stiffness they give you.

• Pros: Cheap, easy install, lower stance
• Cons: No adjustability, can damage OEM shocks, no tuning options

What Are Coilovers?

A coilover is a full suspension unit that combines a shock absorber and coil spring into one system. With adjustable ride height (and often damping), coilovers allow you to tune your car for how you drive.

• Pros: Full control over ride height and damping, tunable, long-term upgrade
• Cons: Higher cost upfront, requires more setup

Shop SLR Drift Spec Coilovers

Why Coilovers Are Better for Performance Driving

Whether you’re drifting, tracking, or just spirited driving, coilovers give you control and consistency:

• Rebound and compression adjustment for better grip
• Ride height control to set your center of gravity
• Camber and toe alignment options to prevent tire wear and improve response

When Should You Pick Coilovers?

Choose coilovers if you:

• Plan to drift or track your car
• Want the option to adjust ride height and damping later
• Need alignment flexibility with camber plates
• Care about long-term suspension performance

SLR Drift Spec Coilovers are available for BMW, Nissan, Corvette, and more

Final Verdict: Coilovers vs Springs

Use Case	Best Option
Daily stance	Springs (budget)
Performance road	Coilovers
Track days	Coilovers
Drifting	Coilovers
Show car	Either

If you’re going beyond looks and want a true performance setup, coilovers are the clear winner — especially when you run SLR Drift Spec Coilovers.