Don't worry, you're doing fine. The one thing that I picked out of your post that I can answer is that the ZX2 struts will work fine with your stock springs. The ZX2 struts will wear out quicker if they are on a drop, such as lowering springs or coilovers. So using your stock springs, they should last quite some time. I have not rode in a car with these yet, but I'm planning to get them for my 323 relatively soon. I think the ride will probably be a little bit stiffer, but not enough to cause discomfort. After all, you won't be hitting off your bumpstops and stuff because you won't be lowered.

 

Dan - do you plan on using the oem springs with your new zx2 struts?

I'm really torn on this .... but I've been getting a good education, thanks to all you guys! I think I've read just about every single thread in this forum regarding KYB and zx2 struts. I've come to the conclusion that if I get KYB's, I'll only get a slight performance upgrade over the stock struts - then I won't be able to afford anything else because they're so darn expensive for what you get. If I get the zx2 struts, I might as well get the Eibach springs since the struts are so cheap, plus I'll get a significant performance upgrade. It all comes down to that comfort vs. performance question, and I'm really starting to come around to the performance side. It may be my daily driver, but I'd like it to perform to it's best!

 

Will, you feel what you feel, but i can garauntee they are stiffer than OEM.

 

Fwiw, here's some price quotes that I got from shox.com:

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Special Prices on products for your 91-01 Ford Escort/MX-3
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Tokico struts $339.00
KYB struts $203.00
Koni insert's $520.80
Sets of 4

Springs
Eibach 1" lowering $199.00 (for the escort)
(Eibach is discontinued for the MX-3)
B&G springs $185.00 lowers 1.6"
S/T 1.5" lowering $159.00
(lowers MX-3 1.3")
Sets of 4

Ground Control Coil over kit $399.000 includes Eibach ERS springs, no struts. 0
to 2.25" lowering.
S/T sway bar kit F $229.00 (Escort '91-'95 only)

Power Slot brake rotors- Fronts are $64.95 to $79.95 depending on model.
and the rears are $74.95 if available, depending on model.
Carbon Metallic brake pads are $49.95 per axle

 

Hey guys - justed wanted to say thanks for all your comments and suggestions! Sorry, but it takes me a while to make a decision - I like to really explore these things first, it's half the fun!

So, I decided to go with the KYB GR-2's. I'm getting them from shox.com, along with new mounts, bearings, and boots. Total price came in at just over $400. I plan on keeping the oem springs. I think this will be the best setup for me for the street. Hopefully by next week I'll have them on the car!