Why Upgrading to Coilovers for E36 is Essential
The BMW E36 is one of the most popular platforms for drifting, track racing, and aggressive street driving. However, to truly unlock its full potential, upgrading to high-performance coilovers for E36 is essential. Stock suspension lacks the adjustability, stiffness, and responsiveness needed for high-performance applications.
If you're looking to improve handling, fine-tune ride height, and maximize chassis control, investing in coilovers for E36 is the best suspension upgrade you can make. This guide will cover why coilovers matter, how to properly adjust them, and the best E36 coilovers available.
What Are Coilovers for E36 and Why Are They Better Than Stock Suspension?
A coilover suspension system replaces the factory struts and springs with a fully adjustable shock absorber wrapped in a coil spring. This provides better handling, superior adjustability, and improved weight transfer, making coilovers an essential upgrade for drifting, track racing, and performance driving.
Key Benefits of Coilovers for E36:
✔ Adjustable Ride Height – Lower or raise your car for better weight distribution and aerodynamics.
✔ Damping Adjustability – Fine-tune compression and rebound settings for optimal grip and handling.
✔ Stiffer Spring Rates – Reduces body roll and increases mid-corner stability.
✔ Improved Chassis Feedback – Enhances steering response and driver control.
✔ Better Weight Transfer for Drifting – Provides superior chassis balance and traction.
SLR E36 Coilovers – The Ultimate Suspension Solution
SLR has developed two levels of drift-optimized E36 coilovers to meet the needs of grassroots drivers and professional drifters alike.
1. SLR E36 Drift Spec Coilovers – Best for Grassroots Drifting ($985)
Designed for grassroots drifting and high-performance street driving, these coilovers provide a perfect balance of adjustability and affordability.
✔ 32-Way Adjustable Dampening – Adjust compression and rebound together for easy tuning.
✔ Drift-Optimized Spring Rates – Maximized for forward bite and smooth transitions.
✔ Monotube Gas-Charged Dampers – Delivers quicker response and superior heat dissipation.
✔ High-Viscosity Race Oil – Maintains consistent damping in high-heat conditions.
✔ Ideal for Street & Grassroots Competitive Drifting.
2. SLR E36 Drift Spec MAX Coilovers – Best for Pro-Level Drifting ($1970)
For competitive drifting and high-performance track use, the SLR Drift Spec MAX Coilovers offer separate compression and rebound adjustability, giving professional drivers complete control over their suspension setup.
✔ 32-Way Adjustable 2-Way Dampening – Adjust compression and rebound separately for maximum tuning precision.
✔ Race-Grade Construction – Built for pro drift cars needing extreme durability and adjustability.
✔ High-Viscosity Racing Oil – Provides unmatched fade resistance in long sessions.
✔ Designed for Maximum Chassis Control at Full Lock.
✔ Perfect for Drivers Looking for a Competitive Edge in Formula Drift, Pro-Am, and Grassroots Competitions.
If you’re looking for the best coilovers for E36 with professional-level adjustability, SLR Drift Spec MAX Coilovers are the top choice.
How to Adjust Coilovers for E36 for Maximum Performance
Tuning your coilovers for E36 correctly ensures optimal handling, grip, and ride quality. Here’s how to set up your suspension for different driving styles:
Ride Height Adjustment
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Lowering the car improves aerodynamics and weight balance, but too low can lead to bump steer issues.
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A slight rake (front lower than rear) improves cornering grip and steering response.
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Always get a professional alignment after lowering your car.
Damping Adjustments for Different Driving Styles
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For Drifting: Soften rear compression for better weight transfer, and keep the front slightly stiffer for quick steering response.
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For Track Use: Increase rebound damping to reduce body roll and improve mid-corner stability.
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For Street Driving: Keep damping on the softer side for a smoother ride while maintaining handling precision.
Camber and Toe Adjustments
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Front Camber: -3° to -5° for drifting, -1.5° to -2.5° for track use.
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Rear Camber: -1° to -2° for better traction and stability.
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Toe: Slight toe-out in the front for drifting, neutral toe for track setups.
Which Coilovers for E36 Should You Choose?
| Coilovers | Best For | Damping Adjustability | Drift-Specific? | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SLR E36 Drift Spec | Grassroots Drifting & Street Driving | 32-Way Adjustable (Single-Way) | Yes | $$ |
| SLR E36 Drift Spec MAX | Pro-Level Drifting & Track Use | 32-Way Adjustable (2-Way) | Yes | $$ |
| BC Racing BR Series | Budget Performance | 30-Way Adjustable | No | $$ |
| KW Variant 3 | Track & Street Performance | 2-Way Adjustable | No | $$$$ |
Final Thoughts: The Best Coilovers for E36 Performance
Choosing the best coilovers for your E36 depends on your driving goals. If you want the most drift-optimized coilover setup, the SLR E36 Drift Spec Coilovers provide unmatched tuning precision, superior grip, and seamless chassis balance.
For those needing pro-level tuning, the SLR Drift Spec MAX Coilovers offer independent compression and rebound adjustability, giving competitive drifters a significant edge on the track.
If you’re serious about drifting and performance driving, SLR’s coilovers for E36 provide the highest level of adjustability, grip, and suspension response available.
