So I've done some searches, please correct me if I've got this wrong...

I have a 2007 Mazda3 Hatchback (not speed).. I am currently looking into tires, and very soon thereafter suspension.. I'd like to do a minimal drop and keep a decent ride quality.

If I can find someone who wants to sell me their used MazdaSpeed3 springs, will they work on my hatchback (and drop ~1"?). Also, will the stock length struts (and stock-length substitutes) work with this suspension, or are the speed struts a different length and therefore I should get struts for the speed3 put on at the same time as the springs?

If indeed the speed3 springs will fit, how much drop should I expect, and where can I find a bunch of speed owners that might be willing to sell me a set?




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The Speed3 is a heavier car and those in the early days ("07) that used AM springs designed for an NA3 (i.e. Eibach"s) got a larger drop than expected.I would think the Speed springs would give you no drop at all.
However, fora milddrop (<1") and a comfortable ride, the RB"s are good, so I"m told.I believe RB is still making the Mazdaspeed accessory springs for the NA 3 too.And the Tein H-Techs are another that are supposed to offer a good ride and mild drop.
Yes, with a mild drop yourOE struts/shocks should be fine for a long, long time.

 

Ok I've lost you on some of the terminology..

What do your abbreviations stand for (NA 3, RB, AM)

I'm actually not looking to do OE struts/shocks for long, they're getting a little tired, after all that's where most of the ride quality is determined. But I may not do struts/shocks/springs all at once, I haven't decided yet.

Any experience with OE/aftermarket struts/shocks? Which provide a great ride quality? Something supple over bumps but still slightly firmer otherwise?

Thanks!

 

NA = Naturally Aspirated (vs. boosted, turbo or supercharged.) In the case of the Speed3, it"s turbocharged, of course.
RB = Racing Beat, an aftermarket company that is known for quality parts and that has produced factory performance parts for Mazda in the past.
AM = After Market supplier.
With the Mazda3, we are unfortunately limited in choice. I am running Koni yellows, or Sport Shocks. Bilstein also makes them for the 3 series and K&N. Your best choice, based on what you"ve said, though on the pricey side is probably the newer Koni FSD"s. In fact, they make an entire suspension setup for our cars. Though these are available from more than one supplier, hereis a link toall the options I am aware offor your research:
http://www.tirerack.com/suspension/S...&brand=all

And here"s a good link for the RB"S, and/or the Eibach sway bars if you are interested:
http://www.good-win-racing.com/Mazda...uspension.html

 

Great, thanks for the input.
I noticed the full Koni FSD kit indicates ~1.4"/1.2" lowering, i'd like to keep the lowering minimal, seems like thats on the "moderate" side.. Any idea if the Koni FSDs work with other spring setups? Ie stock/Tein H- Tech? Also, where can I find the Tein's? (and more info about them?)

Also, I noticed the Koni Sport Shocks are adjustable, are the FSDs? Any comments about the differences between the two?

thanks again

 

The MazdaSpeed Springs Lower it Around 1 to 1.3 inches, and if you get those it comes with the Camber links to correct the rear camber.
http://www.mazdaparts.org/ma3spsp.html

 

Mazda 3 Sport Springs.Reduces the ride height by 25-33 mm depending on body style. Spring rate is increased by 30% over OE resulting in enhanced sterring and improved cornering. Kit contains 4 springs and 2 Rear Camber Links.

oof to the increased spring rate!
Any comments on ride quality of these springs vs. the Teins?

 

The FSD"s are the newest technology in shock valving but are not manually adjustable. They don"t have to be really. The harder the hit to the suspension, such as hitting a pothole or curb, the slower the shock reacts so as to not shock the chassis or the occupants inside. The slower the car yaws, such as in a turn, the faster it reacts to help handling and keep the tire planted on the ground.
I knew the full FSD set-up was not your cup of tea. That"s why I didn"t suggest it to you. But I"m sure they will work well w/any street suspension set-up.
I think you"ll get more drop from the MS sport springs than you are looking for too.

 

Hey! I have a question about springs too. I bought Tein S type lowerin springs when I had my (2002)protege5 wagon but i never put em on. Now i have a mazda3 (2004). Will these springs fit my 3? Thanks!!

: )
Erika

 

Nope!!
And Welcome to the forum, Erika!! Always nice to see women that are "into it" too.
But, we don't called them wagons here. (Yes, I peeked at your profile.) They are 5-drs or hatchbacks, OK?
Only C-DAN owners call them wagons, 'cause they don't know any better.
It's an ongoing "friendly" argument.