Expert: Josh Fields - 5/28/2006

Question
Hello Josh. Lucky to find the above car in good shape, except for front suspension, but repairing it.

Would you send me a list, or an address, for the specifications differences on the 318is compared to the standard 318i. Need that, but I am more specifically trying to determine the suspension setup, ie, factory setup is sport? lowered? which specific strut insert?

Need to change struts, probably Bilsteins unless you recommend differently. AYK, Bilstein has Touring, HD, Sport. Is the factory equivalent on these cars (Boge) the Touring or the Sport one. If it is Touring, then should I go with HD or Sport with the factory springs.

Thanks,
Ray

Answer
Ray,
 For the most part, the difference between the "is" and the "i" cars were the ammount of doors.  An "is" is a coupe, while the "i" is a Sedan.  That is for the most part.  Sometimes the "is" cars had LSD differentials and slightly different suspension.  

 If I were replacing shocks I would use the Bilstein Sports, they are recommended by most of the people who own these cars.  

 Additional information can be found on the web, or try:
www.bmwe30.net

 Hope this helps,
 Josh