So I’m currently running Tein basics and BFG KDW tires 255/35/19 front and 285 in the rear. Recently I’ve been seriously thinking about purchasing a set of KW Variant 3 coilovers.

Before anyone tells me to search, know that I think I have searched and read over 98% of the threads pertaining to KWs.

My question is directed to those who may have made the switch from either the Tein Basics or Flex to the KW if anyone. I’m curious how they compare. I know the KW is a progressive spring, which halfway concerns me, but it is also matched to an amazingly valved shock. The Basics on the other hand are a linear spring with a rate of only around 485lbs or something. I like the response of the linear sprung basics, not having to wait for the spring to compress to a point where it becomes stiff like I fear I would if driving on the V3s.

My driving style is aggressive, I track once every now and again, and spend a decent amount of time in the canyons. The Basics up till now have served me well in those applications, granted not being the most hardcore coilover, they have given me the performance I like without being ridiculously stiff (keeping in mind this is a G35) and I still want to maintain some ride comfort.

I’ve also been thinking about upgrading to the Flex or even the Mono-Flex despite their high spring rate, its my understanding that the shocks are valved so well they actually ride better than the Flex. Any opinions on this? Thanks guys.

 

I'm interested in this as well as I have the Tein Basics as well and find them too soft. In for 1st hand experience.

 

I guess this will be semi helpful. I had KW V2's on my RSX-S and from a quality standpoint they were excellent (compared to buddy club N+).

The shock body did not rust after two winters 1 garaged, 1 outside. They never made any noise nor did I have any problems with them.

On the RSX-S the fronts were 10 pounds lighter per assembly and the rears were 5 pounds lighter per assembly.

They handled amazingly when driven hard and were comfortable for everyday use. I had to call customer service one time and they were extremely helpful.

As soon as I can afford them I am getting a set for the Z. Hope that helps.

Dan

 

Semi-helpful, I can't speak for 24v GTI Guy, but I'm definitely interested in hearing from someone who has upgraded (IMO) from Tein Basics to KW V3's.

I bought my Z used with the Tein Basic's (Never even driven a Z with factory suspension) and I feel like the Basic's are too soft. Of course, being that they are the Basic's, they are really more for people that want an adjustable drop than someone performance-oriented so this goes with the territory.

From the threads I have read on the V3's, owners say the ride is compliant while still being great for performance driving and even track days. I can understand 24v GTI Guy's fears that with a progressive spring it would still "feel" soft. While I don't want something so stiff that it actually handles worse because the suspension can't deal with the cracks, dips, un-even pavement and potholes, I still want it to feel stiff enough with adequate rebound that the car feels properly planted in most all situations. I guess it's hard to explain what you really want with a suspension setup (feel-wise), but I guess having a setup that allows the proper foundation and ability to tune that you could attain the feel you desire is what I'm after, with the ability to drive on the street (with poor road conditions) but still have a trackable setup is ideal for a good majority of us.

I think it would be really interesting in hearing someone who has first hand (on a Z) switched from the Basic's to the KW V3's. Given KW's reputation (especially in Germany), I know they are a very well built system but it's good to hear you didn't have any rusting problems with your RSX setup. Thanks for the input trinityracer.

 

Some good info here from the good guys at Z1:
https://my350z.com/forum/brakes-and-...n-systems.html

 

Interesting read....but for all the info on this board about KW Variant 3s, there really isn't a lot. I would love to hear the reviews and opinions of the Z1 guys or anyone else who can really discuss the nitty gritty of this suspension.

I know Gsedan ran a shock dyno on the Variant 2 and discovered that running the shock beyond 50% stiffness for an extended period is a near death sentence for them. I wonder if thats the same case for the V3s.

I also wonder if due to the springs being progressive, do you get a slight feeling of the car settling before the springs get stiff enough when entering a hard turn.

 

More info on the Variant 3s:

http://sccaforums.com/forums/thread/333471.aspx

 

i have a couple of homies who have kw v3 and they tell me the ride is awesome! i currently have h&r sport springs with tokico dspecs and i will be purchasing the kw v3 coils very soon

 

Great dampers, often when people complain the car is 'rolling too much', their dampers are set far too soft which dosn't control the body roll as much.

Seems like a great fit for your application.