Are you looking to enhance the handling and performance of your 1987 Porsche 944 Turbo? Installing sport shock absorbers is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make. With the right shocks, you can transform your driving experience, improving cornering ability, ride comfort, and overall road control. Whether you’re a casual weekend driver or a track enthusiast, this guide will help you choose the best Sport Shock Absorber Options 1987 Porsche 944 Turbo.
Why Upgrade Your 1987 Porsche 944 Turbo’s Shocks?
Stock vs. Performance Shocks
The stock shock absorbers in your Porsche 944 Turbo were designed for general driving comfort, balancing daily usability with decent performance. However, they can feel soft or unresponsive, especially after years of wear. Sport shock absorbers, on the other hand, are designed to improve handling, responsiveness, and control, offering a more direct connection to the road.
Signs You Need a Shock Upgrade
Not sure if it’s time for an upgrade? Here are some signs your shocks might need replacing:
- Excessive body roll during cornering
- A bouncy or unstable ride, particularly over uneven roads
- Longer braking distances or reduced cornering grip
- Visible leaks or damage on the shocks
Impact on Performance
Upgraded shocks provide firmer damping, reducing body roll and improving cornering stability. They also help maintain tire contact with the road, resulting in better braking and more predictable handling at high speeds. Whether you’re taking sharp corners or cruising on highways, sports shocks significantly enhance the car’s overall driving dynamics.
Street vs. Track Use
While stock shocks are fine for casual driving, sport shocks are engineered for performance. If you take your 944 Turbo to the track or enjoy spirited driving, performance shocks can offer quicker responsiveness, sharper handling, and a more connected driving feel.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Sport Shocks
Driving Style
The type of driving you do most frequently will play a major role in choosing your sport shocks. For daily street driving, a balance between comfort and performance is ideal. However, for track use or aggressive driving, firmer shocks with enhanced damping control are preferable.
Ride Quality
Upgrading to sport shocks typically makes the ride firmer, which can reduce comfort. It’s important to decide how much you’re willing to sacrifice ride comfort for performance. Some shocks offer a good balance, while others prioritize stiffness for better handling.
Suspension Height
Lowering your car’s suspension can improve handling and aesthetics, but it requires shocks designed for that setup. Make sure to choose shocks that can accommodate your suspension height, especially if you’re using aftermarket lowering springs.
Adjustability
Some shocks are adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune their stiffness or damping characteristics. Adjustable shocks are great for those who want to customize their car’s ride quality depending on driving conditions.
Budget
Sport shocks range in price from budget-friendly options to high-end, track-focused systems. It’s essential to consider your budget alongside your performance goals, ensuring you get the best balance of cost and benefit.
Top Sport Shock Absorber Options for the 1987 Porsche 944 Turbo
Bilstein B6/B8 Performance Dampers
- Bilstein B6 (Heavy Duty):
The Bilstein B6 is perfect for drivers who want better handling without compromising daily comfort. This shock absorber provides firmer damping than stock but still offers a smooth ride for everyday use.- Pros: Excellent quality, balance of comfort and performance, easy installation.
- Cons: Not adjustable, more suited for street driving than aggressive track use.
- Best for: Daily drivers who occasionally drive spiritedly.
- Bilstein B8 (Sport):
The B8 model is designed for vehicles with lowered suspensions, offering improved handling and control. These shocks are shorter than stock, making them ideal for cars with lowering springs.- Pros: Designed for lowered vehicles, superior handling for aggressive driving.
- Cons: Less comfortable for daily driving, non-adjustable.
- Best for: Drivers with lowering springs seeking maximum performance.
Koni Sport Adjustable Shocks (Yellow)
Koni Sport shocks are highly versatile, offering adjustable rebound damping so you can fine-tune them for either comfort or performance.
- Key Features: Adjustable damping lets you choose a softer or firmer ride.
- Pros: Versatile, suitable for both street and track, long-lasting performance.
- Cons: Adjustment requires manual tuning, which can take time.
- Best for: Drivers who want flexibility between daily driving and track performance.
KW Variant 3 Coilovers
KW Variant 3 coilovers provide an all-in-one solution with adjustable ride height and damping control. These coilovers are aimed at performance enthusiasts who demand top-tier customization.
- Key Features: Fully adjustable compression and rebound damping, as well as ride height adjustment.
- Pros: Maximum adjustability for precise suspension tuning, excellent build quality.
- Cons: High price, complex installation.
- Best for: Track enthusiasts who want full control over their car’s suspension setup.
Öhlins Road & Track Coilovers
Öhlins coilovers are among the best in the market, offering dual-flow valve technology that provides exceptional damping control without sacrificing ride comfort. These are premium shocks designed for both track and street performance.
- Key Features: Dual-flow valve technology for optimized damping, adjustable compression and rebound.
- Pros: Superior handling, great ride quality, even in harsh driving conditions.
- Cons: Premium price, unnecessary for casual drivers.
- Best for: Serious drivers who want peak performance both on the road and on the track.
H&R Sport or Race Springs (Paired with Shocks)
H&R Sport and Race Springs lower your car’s center of gravity, improving handling and aesthetics. When paired with performance shocks like Bilstein or Koni, they offer a more aggressive driving experience.
- Key Features: Lowers the car for better cornering and stance.
- Pros: Improved handling, especially in corners, better aesthetics with lowered suspension.
- Cons: Harsher ride, especially with Race Springs. Must be paired with appropriate shocks for optimal performance.
- Best for: Enthusiasts looking for an aggressive look and improved cornering.
Comparing the Shock Absorbers: Which One Is Right for You?
Daily Drivers:
- Best Options: Bilstein B6 or Koni Sport (adjusted for comfort).
- Benefits: These shocks offer a smooth ride with improved handling, making them ideal for everyday use.
Weekend Warriors (Spirited Street Driving):
- Best Options: Koni Sport (set for firmer performance) or Bilstein B8.
- Benefits: These options provide enhanced cornering ability and stability while maintaining acceptable comfort for street use.
Track Enthusiasts:
- Best Options: KW Variant 3 Coilovers or Öhlins Road & Track Coilovers.
- Benefits: Full adjustability and precision control make these perfect for track days, giving drivers the ability to fine-tune their suspension for maximum performance.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
DIY vs. Professional Installation:
- While some shock absorber kits are straightforward to install, others (like coilovers) may require professional installation to ensure proper setup and alignment.
- If you’re unfamiliar with suspension work, it’s recommended to have a mechanic handle the installation, especially for coilover systems.
Alignment After Installation:
- Once new shocks are installed, it’s critical to get a proper wheel alignment. Misaligned suspension can cause uneven tire wear and negatively impact handling.
Maintenance Tips:
- Periodically inspect your shocks for leaks, wear, or damage.
- For adjustable shocks, check settings regularly and make sure they remain in optimal condition for your driving style.
The Impact of Shock Absorbers on Other Suspension Components
- Upgrading Springs:
- If you upgrade to sport shocks, you may also want to consider upgrading the springs, especially if you’re looking to lower the car or improve handling further.
- Sway Bars and Bushings:
- Upgrading shocks alone can change the balance of your suspension system. Consider upgrading sway bars or bushings to further improve handling and reduce body roll.
- Tires:
- Shocks and tires work together to provide grip and stability. High-performance shocks should be paired with quality tires to maximize their potential.
Conclusion
Upgrading the shocks on your 1987 Porsche 944 Turbo can greatly improve its handling, ride quality, and overall driving experience. Whether you’re driving on the street or the track, choosing the right Sport Shock Absorber Options 1987 Porsche 944 Turbo depends on your needs and preferences. Bilstein, Koni, KW, and Öhlins offer some of the best options available, each catering to different types of drivers.
Take the time to assess your driving habits and decide which shock absorber upgrade best fits your Porsche. With the right setup, you can unleash the full potential of your 944 Turbo, enjoying a more connected and thrilling ride every time you get behind the wheel.
FAQs on Sport Shock Absorber Options 1987 Porsche 944 Turbo
What are the benefits of upgrading to sport shocks on a 1987 Porsche 944 Turbo?
Upgrading to sport shocks improves handling, reduces body roll, and enhances overall driving responsiveness. They provide a firmer, more connected ride, making the car feel more stable during cornering and high-speed driving.
Can I use sports shocks for daily driving?
Yes, many sport shocks, like the Bilstein B6 or Koni Sport, strike a good balance between comfort and performance, making them suitable for daily driving while offering improved handling for spirited driving.
Are adjustable shocks better than non-adjustable ones?
Adjustable shocks, like the Koni Sport, allow you to fine-tune damping settings based on driving conditions, offering more flexibility. Non-adjustable shocks, such as Bilstein B6/B8, provide fixed performance but require less maintenance and setup.
Do I need to upgrade springs when installing sports shocks?
Upgrading springs is not mandatory but highly recommended if you’re lowering the car or seeking further performance improvements. Lowering springs, when paired with sports shocks, improve cornering and the vehicle’s stance.
How often should I replace my shock absorbers?
Shock absorbers should generally be replaced every 50,000-100,000 miles, depending on driving conditions. If you notice reduced handling, excessive bounce, or leaks, it’s time for an upgrade.