can someone explain the pros and cons of using springs vs. coilovers ?

Answer 1

if you are looking for mid-priced spring / Coilovers then here is the main difference.

Springs are Progressive and Coil-overs are linear.

Progressive springs yield increased resistance as the load applied on them increases while the linear springs "squish" in the same rate regardless of what the load is applied.

Progressive springs yield comfortable street/track use and are normally limited to a spring-rate of 400 lbs/in, while the coil overs can go all the way upto 1000 lbs/in and beyond and are normally let for strick track use (unless you prefer jittery street ride).

Progressive springs can be purchased separately than the shocks and a good set of progressive springs can be attained for less than $200 (Depending on your lowering). full bodied coil-overs need to be purchased as a kit which includes the shock body and the spring often called "Full-body Coilovers" (JIC, Tein). do not confuse yourself with the commercially advertised coil-overs such as Ground Control and Suspension Tech since they are technically called "Sleeve overs" since these sleeves go over the shocks (they slide on)

Answer 2

On Hondas It really depends on what you are doing with the car.
If you want to slam the car coilovers are best. They also have the highest spring rate which means a harsher ride and less movement. They can be had for cheap ($40) or expensive ($2400). You get what you pay for.
Springs are a simple way to improve the way the car handles. Eighbach ($200)is one of the best and won't blow out the factory struts (pro kit). This is a good stance and has inproved feel without a harsh ride.

If i have the option of aftermarket struts ($300) and cheap coilovers or good aftermarket springs with stock struts. I would go with the first and I would take care not to slam it too low and mess up the very expensive new struts.

That is me though. Also look at suspension techniques antisway bars front and rear ($250) A great upgrade for the money.

Good luck,
KC

Answer 3

Coilovers are the way to go but very expensive. The pros are they are adjustable and your car will ride better and have a more aggressive stance. They are easy to install and can be done yourself. The springs area already compressed, so you don't have to worry about that part.

Springs do not offer the adjustable feature, and you also have to buy shocks/struts if you don't want to blow a stock shock. Also, you will have to pay someone alot more to install the spring and shocks. They are alot less expensive, and give your car a better stance than stock.

Personally, I went with just springs, because I do not plan on riding any lower than 2". I decided to save the $700 price difference for other mods.

Answer 4

leaf springs are cheaper and you get a smoother ride than with coil overs. less maintenance with leaf springs also.