Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.8 liter
Ride-Height adjustable Coilovers that have no compression/rebound adjustment.
I tried Bilstein PSS Coilovers (not the adjustable PSS9s) on my 1995 NA/M1 Miata. I used front shock mounts and hardware from the newer NB/M2 models, and FM Rear shock mounts. The PSS comes with progressive rate springs which were not to my liking at all - just awful. I substituted linear rate springs in the rear, and the handling improved immensely. I think linear rate springs should be standard equipment on the PSS system. One other note: The ride height adjustment threads on the Bilstein shocks are very tight and require lots of lubrication to work well. Mine seemed to be incompletely cut, like the lathe turning them had a dull blade, hence the recommendation for lotsa lube. Conversely, the GC sleeves and the Tein Flex Coilovers have wider spaced threads and are much easier to adjust.
I don't recommend the PSS system, unless you can get the shocks without the progressive rate springs. The shocks are very strong and will work well with significantly higher rate springs than supplied with the kit. I suggest that anyone who purchases the Bilstein PSS ALSO purchase linear rate springs, 8 inchers for the rear, 9 or 10 inchers for the front, and then you'll have a very good Coilover system. If you must have Bilstein Coilovers and can spend more money, get the PSS9.
Over 30 minutes to remove completely
Applicable to: '99 + 1.8 liter
This is the Bilstein PSS coilover system. For comparison purposes the car has stock sways, front and rear lower stressbars, front upper stressbar, and a Racing Beat type V style bar. Stock 15" wheels are used.
WOW! This is without a doubt the best street suspension I have ever driven. My experience on the Miata is limited to a Koni, a Tokico, and a stock setup, but I've been through just about every imaginable non-coilover setup on various VW's. For street use I can't image a better setup. The ride is firmer than stock, but is actually smoother over small stuff, and really makes the car feel like it's been cut out of a single block of metal. Dive and squat are way down. There's a little body roll, but that is also reduced, and larger sways would really tighten that down. Surprisingly, I can still go over speed bumps at a decent speed as well. This is a very good example of a suspension where the springs and shocks are well matched. I can't say enough good things about this setup and highly reccomend it.
Downsides: The instructions that come with the kit are worthless. Also, a lot of people who buy coilovers are looking to really "slam" their cars low, this setup can lower the car a little, but even at it's lowest setting, it only lowers my car about 1/2-3/4" in the rear. This is fine by me as I only wanted to lower the car about 1/2" for looks, but didn't want a full 1" of lowering so that I could preserve the ride and travel. So if lowering is your thing, look elsewhere. Also, it's not damping adjustable, so it may not be the racer's preferred setup. This is a STREET suspension, not a race suspension. I can't get over how this setup has transformed the car. Not just handling, but overall solid feel and enhanced control. No other suspension that I've had has been able to do as well as these.
Over 30 minutes to remove completely
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