Suspension upgrades are one of the most common modifications for car enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to lower your stance, improve handling, or prepare your vehicle for track use, the question often arises: coilovers vs springs — which is better? Both options have unique benefits and trade-offs, and the right choice depends on your goals, budget, and driving style. This guide will give you an in-depth look at the differences between coilovers and lowering springs to help you decide.
What Are Lowering Springs?
Lowering springs replace your car’s factory springs to reduce ride height. They provide a simple and affordable way to improve appearance and handling.
Pros of Lowering Springs
- Lower cost compared to coilovers
- Simpler installation process
- Improved aesthetics by reducing wheel gap
- Better handling compared to stock suspension
Cons of Lowering Springs
- Non-adjustable — fixed ride height
- Reduced comfort on rough roads
- Not as effective for track or competitive driving
- Can wear out OEM shocks prematurely
What Are Coilovers?
Coilovers are a suspension system that integrates springs and adjustable shocks in a single unit. Unlike lowering springs, coilovers allow fine-tuning for height, damping, and performance.
Pros of Coilovers
- Fully adjustable ride height
- Damping and rebound adjustability
- Superior handling performance
- Great for track, drifting, and racing applications
- Customizable stance and comfort balance
Cons of Coilovers
- Higher cost compared to lowering springs
- More complex installation and setup
- Requires regular adjustments for optimal performance
Coilovers vs Springs – Side by Side Comparison
| Feature | Lowering Springs | Coilovers |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Affordable | Higher investment |
| Adjustability | None (fixed drop) | Height & damping fully adjustable |
| Comfort | Moderate, can be harsh | Customizable based on setup |
| Performance | Improved over stock | Superior, track-ready |
| Installation | Easy | More complex |
Which Option Is Best for You?
The decision between coilovers and springs depends largely on how you use your car:
- Daily Drivers: Lowering springs are usually sufficient for aesthetics and mild performance gains.
- Street/Show Cars: Coilovers allow for a custom stance and balance between comfort and appearance.
- Track & Drift Cars: Coilovers are essential for adjustability and competitive performance.
SLR Coilovers – Designed for Drifting and Racing
At SLR Speed, our drift-spec coilovers are engineered to handle the extreme demands of competitive drifting and motorsport. With adjustable damping, ride height control, and reinforced durability, they are the perfect solution for drivers who demand performance without compromise.
Conclusion
The coilovers vs springs debate comes down to priorities. If cost and simplicity are your main concerns, lowering springs are a solid entry-level choice. However, if you want adjustability, maximum performance, and long-term suspension tuning, coilovers are the clear winner. For enthusiasts pushing their cars on track or in drift events, coilovers are an investment that pays off every lap.
