Lowering an e39 5 Series

[GTMAN]

Hello All,

I have the bug in me to....never thought I ever say this, but..... lower my 540. Can anyone share any experiences they have had with any type of modification on the suspension side that gave the best bang for the buck, ride comfort, reliability issues etc.? I'm considering going either with springs only or all the way through with springs+struts+sway bars. I dont want the car too low. I dont mind coil-overs as I can make it look homy'd out or relatively domesticated. I know Dinan, AC Schnitz, Eibach sells complete kits. Eibach seems like a decently priced package, the rest seem like overpriced. I cant get GroundControls because they dont make a setup for the 5 series. I'm looking to maintain ride comfort, reduce body roll, and close up the front fender well gap to be even with the rear. Any knowledge on this topic will be appreciated.

Thanks,
GT_MAN

 

[Ghost]

It depends on how you drive. I liked my Eibach-Bilstein setup with a Racing Dynamics strut brace on my E34. The ride was tight, but not too rough. My E39 has Koni’s with “performance springs.” During everyday driving I can feel the road imperfections more, but at high speeds I like the security of feeling more stable. IMO weigh the options based on your style of driving and what situations make you most comfortable.

 

[GTMAN]

Ghost, How low did the Eibachs drop the 540Sport? I know 540 Sport's are 1 inch lower than regular 540, I dont know if Eibach drops the 540 ~1.2-1.5 in., or drops the 540SPORT ~1.2-1.5in.

Thx

 

[Ghost]

I had them on a 535, and they dropped it about 1.5 inches. I’m not sure what brand of springs Dinan uses, and I bought the car with the mods, but I believe that it would lower the 540iSport less (relatively) in that after the mod all cars are standing at approximately the same height.

I don’t know if you have upgraded your front bumper, but, if you have or plan to and lower the car, be aware parking curbs and steep ramps because some will cause serious damage.