02 C32 Springs vs 03 C230 SS
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Joined: May 2005
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From: East Bay, CA
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the 01-04 springs are pretty high compared to the c32 springs. i would recommend finding 05-07 c230ss springs, which they're about the same height as a c32 if not lower. the part number for springs and shocks i believe are different, but if you get oem stock springs you can still use the shocks you have now without any problem.
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Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 1,414
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From: Charlotte, NC
Had: 1987 300TD, Had: 2004 C230 Sport Sedan, Have: 2014 E350 Sport, Have: 2019 S450
I just did the C32 spring/shock install on my '03 C230.
The rear is now just a little bit lower, the front appears to be about the same height as before.
However, the handling has been improved 100%.
If you're looking for an affordable way to get better handling (C32 take-offs should be cheap), this is not a bad way to go. If you want the car to look like the '05 C230 (lower), then this isn't going to do it for you.
Shocks are different - much tighter valving on the C32.
Ride quality is firmer, but not harsher (most likely still soft bushings on the C). Not objectionable at all on the highway.
The rear is now just a little bit lower, the front appears to be about the same height as before.
However, the handling has been improved 100%.
If you're looking for an affordable way to get better handling (C32 take-offs should be cheap), this is not a bad way to go. If you want the car to look like the '05 C230 (lower), then this isn't going to do it for you.
Shocks are different - much tighter valving on the C32.
Ride quality is firmer, but not harsher (most likely still soft bushings on the C). Not objectionable at all on the highway.
Last edited by dmatre; Dec 4, 2006 at 05:56 AM.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 187
Likes: 2
From: Austin,Texas
2005 C230SS
Thanks a bunch for all the replies. This was very helpful in making up my mind. If anyone has a 2004.5 and later suspension (springs and shocks) they want to get rid of, please let me know. Thanks!
