I searched the suspension threads, but I couldn't find what I was looking for.
I am going to be doing my first suspension mods, and I'm debating between the two options below with my limited budget. I already have the 18" Wheels. This car will only be used for daily driving (no autocross or track days), but I want a car that handles really well - I'm willing to sacrifice some ride quality, but the last thing I want is a headache from the car being too harsh. Here are my two options, thanks in advance for your help:

Option 1:
$350 for Hotchkis Sways (Front & Rear) INSTALLED
Pros: I've read a lot about the Hotchkis Sways and people seemed to be really satisfied with their performance.
Cons: Expensive compared to TRD Rear Sway, harsher ride, and doesn't leave me enough money to lower my car.

OR

Option 2:
$389.00 TRD Lowering Springs & TRD Rear Sway Bar INSTALLED
Pros: Eliminates wheel gap with the springs, slight improvement over stock handling.
Cons: Performance not up to par with the Hotchkis Sways

So, what do you guys think? Rear Sway and Lowering Springs OR Front/Rear Sways Only? Thanks!

 

i think option 2 is better.

i say this because the fron of hte car is stable enough while the rear is very loose. also by lowering hte car you will handle a little better, especially since this is the perfect drop for spiriting/daily driving.

and if you want.. you can always opt to go with the progress rear sway bar, its pretty hefty and is on par with the hotckis.

 

+1 since you said you won't be doing autox or track the TRD sway or the progress will be ok and you get to drop the car.

The Hotchkis sways are excelent but give truly agresive ride for autox and or track.

I had the TRD sway and changed it for both hotchkis sways because at somepoint I want my car to autox and track so that was my reason for the change.

anyways good luck with your choice and hope you enjoy them when you get them installed.

 

I agree with option 2, even though i have the Hotchkis setup. If you are only going to use this for a daily driver the trd springs and shocks is the best setup. BUT...

I love the hotchkis setup personally, and the handling is supurb!! After my install of everything including my new Toyo Proxies(<--AWESOME TIRE!!!), and with the hotchkis sways, MAN i took this baby on some normal roadways i know around here, and i am telling you it is a serios setup!!! It felt like it was on rails, and i mean RAILS BABY! I felt turns like never before, and at a very high speed... Serious buisness this setup, and i can see why those that switched to the hotchkis use these for auto-x... I even have my stock shocks, which i will change out later down the road...

Just do what is best for your wallet, just dont regret doing it when you do and wish you had done the other. If there are those in your area that have both, ask them to take you for a drive...

Good luck whatever you do...

 

Option #2 - without a doubt!

 

Yeah, option #2 will deffinately make you happy.

 

Thanks for the replies everyone! I'm going to be making the purchase on Monday - If anyone else has a differing opinion, please let me know before then. I'll post pictures and a review on this thread once everything is installed.

 

liking option 2.