Shock absorbers Bilstein or OEM Volkswagen

ipd still carries a range of OEM replacement, repair, and performance parts for these cars, including a 2130cc overbore kit, 2 different performance cams, a Weber carb conversion kit, exhaust header to fit carbed and FI cars (different intake manifolds), Bilstein shocks, and poly bushing kits.

Neuspeed springs( though I think 1.5 inch drop may be to much) bilstein sport shocks( heard nothing but good things)

Well it's done. The Spindles are in, the Bilstein Sports are on with H&R OE Sport Springs and a 28mm H&R Rear anti-roll Bar. Definately a difference, but since I had Chad at SCI install everything at once, I have no way to be certain about which part accounts for what change. Turn in is well controlled and has a 'right now' feel, body roll is reduced quite a bit, and I can feel the rear of car rotate properly around corners. The ride height of this set up is about 3/8" lower in the rear and 3/8" higher in front than the stock GLI 1.8T (which is about 1" lower than a Jetta GL), now the car sits perfectly level. Which means, if you ask my opinion, the car now sits and looks correct. Also, I no longer scrape on the way into my drive way. The OE Sport springs are definately stiffer than stock and so are the Bilsteins: as evidence by a good reduction in pitch (squat and dive). The ride isn't any rougher or any more "firm" than stock GLI 1.8T, but the suspension motions are WAY more controlled. The spindles live up to the prediction of reduction in bump steer--now there is NONE when hammering rough pavenent on clover leafs; now the car's wheels abosorb the pavement irregularities but the steering wheel doesn't kick back. In addition, the control arms are now angled in the correct direction. So the spindles, along with the springs, help with the decent amount of roll reduction I've noticed. Overall I'm very happy, I got exactly what I wanted. For most enthusiasts/tuners who only want to lower, this set up is a pricey suspension mod that will not give you what you want. However if cornering prowess with great feedback and motion control is what you seek, this is nirvana .

With winter weather finally arriving in Kansas City, my skid plate has finally come into play--twice. 1) Last night, there was a fairly big chunk of ice in the middle of my lane. Like something that fell out of an SUV's wheel well. Looked to be small enough to clear the bumper cover, though, so I stayed on course. KRUNK! Squished by the skid plate. 2) This morning on the way to work, there was a mound of snow/ice buildup on the corner of the road leading to the parking garage. Didn't even see it, but I sure heard it when the skid plate plowed over it.

TC's appear to have good rebound control, making them suitable for a conversative lowering spring. They appear to ride a bit more firm than stock, all in all a nice upgrade.

i just put the sports on my car not too long ago and i LOVE the ride....just had to say it.....

I started from stock Cabbie and put immediatelly anti-sport modification: Bilstein Comfort shock absorbers. It is way smooth. It feels like Caddilac.

The second has Bilstein HD inserts with stock Rabbit GTI springs up front with KYB rear shocks and stock springs. I like it the best for everyday driving and it handles very nice. IMO there is no substitute for Bilstein.

Initial impressions with the Bilstein HD’s are positive. I have exactly what I was looking for, and was not led astray by other comments on the Vortex. Many comment on the Bilstein’s as being too stiff, even with stock springs. Understanding that most people want a factory ride with improved handling, I figured this would be perfect. The shocks do definitely transmit more of every little bit of road, but they also do an excellent job at soaking up bumps and dips, keeping the car under control. The car is definitely not quite as comfortable on the freeway, especially with 17” wheels, however the ride is not unbearable.

If you're going with coilovers pick something with adjustable shocks like Koni or Bilstein.