Suspension Refresh - Springs & Shock recommendations?

Hello my friends,

My Z4 04' has the sport package with M suspension and 87k miles. It rides HARSH, I don't know how much of that is wear and how much of that is stiff, but I'd definitely say "crashy". It's awful! I've decided to replace the front shocks and would like to keep it simple and inexpensive.

* Are the Bilstein B4's harder or softer than the original BMW OE shocks? Even better, may I buy the non-sport (M suspension delete) OE shocks?

* Also, unlike most people, I do not want this car any lower than it already is. Honestly, I'd even like it to get to the non-sport (M suspension delete) ride height. Can I buy the springs of the 2.5 model or 3.0 non-sport package and fit them? I really could use the extra 15mm height, as I daily drive it.

* Is it possible to put the new shocks (whether OE or B4s) and at a later time put the M suspension delete springs? Would the same shocks work with both ride heights?

My apologies for opening a new thread about it. There's a ton of info in this forum already, but mostly is about coilovers, high-end parts and even getting the car a bit lowered than already is—and none of it is the goal here.

Thank you guys, much appreciated.
 
I have read that the B4s work well with the m sport springs, so I bought the matching set. Yet to be fitted but confident that it will improve my ride. A question of my own, are new bump stops recommended or do they last well? Thanks
 
Jamturbo said:
I have read that the B4s work well with the m sport springs, so I bought the matching set. Yet to be fitted but confident that it will improve my ride. A question of my own, are new bump stops recommended or do they last well? Thanks
Hi, when I replaced my suspension recently I replaced all the bump stops and covers. They were quite grotty on the fronts, the rears not to bad but thought I would replace the lot as in the scheme of things they’re not that expensive.
 
I have the same car with the standard M Sport suspension, I really don't like low crashy cars but i actually find it quite smooth and comfortable to drive. It might be worth checking of someone hasn't already changed your suspension for something different.
One more question - are you on runflat tyres?
 
I have an '03 E85 with M-sport suspension and runflats. I've been considering replacing the suspension to try and mitigate the 'crashiness' but wondering if going to non-runflats will perhaps be enough to smooth out the ride? Or is there some other component of the suspension that is known for causing a harsh ride? Bushings?
 
Echo Rock hopper. Hated run flats and didn't enjoy motorway driving with them on. Used to bounce all over the place. It would be an improvement whichever way you look at it imo.
 
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