Camber plates or sway bars?

[MX339]

It's because the E30 uses a really short spring in the rear and there aren't any standard or 2.5" springs that are short and soft enough when we're talking performance/race use. As a result rear spring rates are artificially high (given that's what available). This is why many tinkering racers try different combos and end up running adjusters that use a 2.25" spring (that is available in some of the shorter, softer rates).

Interesting, I always thought the high rear spring rates on 02's/E30's were due to the inboard positioning of the spring perch which changed the wheel rate, necessitating a higher spring rate. So I take it that means a softer rear spring than something like what H&R Races are supplied with will actually calm the rear end down?

[Emre]

remember, bigger front = more understeer.

Except, of course, on cars with McPherson front struts. In which case the exact opposite is true (up to a point).

[SkiFree]

Front sway on these cars is more important than rear. Not sure why, just my experience.

It's because the E30 uses a really short spring in the rear and there aren't any standard or 2.5" springs that are short and soft enough when we're talking performance/race use. As a result rear spring rates are artificially high (given that's what available). This is why many tinkering racers try different combos and end up running adjusters that use a 2.25" spring (that is available in some of the shorter, softer rates).

[lcoleman]

I think a proper amount (3+ degrees) of front camber will make a bigger difference than sways unless you have totally wimpy spring rates.

Front sway on these cars is more important than rear. Not sure why, just my experience. Guessing it has to do with suspension design. It seems to help with understeer more than it hurts. Both bars is obviously best, along with proper adjustable endlinks.

[GillesBigCowboy]

Without camber plates, I would always get excessive outside tire wear at track.

[Jaxx_]

remember, bigger front = more understeer. bigger rear bar = more oversteer.

[acolella76]

Well what spring rates are you running? Sway bars should be matched to your springs, and are really dependent on driver preference. For instance I don't run a rear bar on the track but I'll reconnect it for an autocross so I can get the car to rotate easier.

[E30NJ]

Start with sway bars. Cabrio sway bars are a good upgrade becuase they are beefier. Just be careful because some cabrios have the same sway bars out of a regular E30s. Front should be a diameter or 21mm and the rear should be 12 mm. I've heard great things about Ireland Engineering Sway Bars but they are a bit pricey. Bav Auto makes some good ones too. Let us know what you decide!

[E30_Pare]

Cabrio front sway from the junkyard and camber plates.

[jayuuey]

I'm in the process of refreshing my e30 for hpde. After engine maintenance, brakes, springs and shocks, what's next? I'm thinking either sways or camber plates. What's the best bang for the buck?