I am wondering how different types of adjustable struts there are available for a '91 323? Also, what are pros and cons of adjustable struts? I really like the idea of being able to adjust them so easily, depending on what you are wanting to do with your car. Also, I am doing a 1.8L DOHC swap from a Escort GT/Protege GT and was wondering if a certain type of strut and spring are recommended for use when going to a bigger engine like this one? Thanks in advance for any info.

Nathan
'91 323

 

You would love adjustable struts, they are so sweet, and much stronger than factory , I have the mazdaspeeds, and carrying 3 people is so easy that it is not funny lol ..... I know that corksport carries some adjustbles for the 1st gen , that you may be able to get , just give him a call at , www.corksport.com
Bruce

 

well, unless you plan to race semi seriously, adjustable struts are pretty pricey and only Mazdaspeed makes em. Never tried the Koni inserts though...but for the price of ONE (almost one Koni) of either of those, you can get all four ZX2 S/R struts..... no, not adjustable, but just as good at it's job and pretty cost effective.

 

Very good point! I am trying to keep the price to a minimum and I think adjustable struts would be amazing to have, but they are a little expensive for what I am looking for now. Mazdaspeedwest, what kind of struts would you recommend to be used with 323. Something that will give the car a smoother ride but add a little performance, and maybe allow for a lowering of car about 1"-1.25"(not too low) in the future. What kind do you use? and do you like the ones you use?

Nathan
'91 323

 

well, if you want a soft ride, an OEM replacement, like a Monroe, Gabriel etc..will work fine, if you want a semi performance strut, the KYB's are a good choice, but if you want real good performance the ZX2 S/R struts or the Mazdaspeeds are your best bet.

cost vs performance, the ZX2 struts always win.

I use the ZX2 S/R struts with MX3 H&R springs. It's a very stiff ride and pretty punishing for the street.