[Machspeed93]

So I'm in the market for coilovers (have an e90 xDrive) and after reading numerous threads, I have narrowed BCs, KW V1s, and Bilstein B14s. I've read mixed reviews on all three brands which is why I'm wondering why KWs are almost double the cost of Bilsteins and BCs. Any insight/suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

And for reference, it's my DD so all I care about is longevity

[tlow98]

Just buy STs. They are the same as KWV1s, but with steel bodies - same as all the other ones you are comparing to.

[Machspeed93]

I live in NJ and deal with salted roads in the winter unfortunately

[rothwem]

Of those three choices, I think the V1s are more expensive because they're a more high end product. The B14 is just a B6 with a threaded spring perch and the BCs are basically generic Chinese coilovers with tuned in valving.

The V1-V3 range is basically the same thing though, just with different damping adjustabilities between them. Same stainless body, same adjusters, etc.

I've not had any personal experience with any of these products btw, my evaluation is just from combing through spec sheets.

[6ixSpd]

Marketing, mostly. But it's also because:

1) Bilstein has come down in price quite a bit over the last few years, but there's a reason: quality has decreased to offset the pricing for a lot of their products.

2) BC is the budget option, and by far the best budget option for these cars. The fact you get camber plates is a huge bonus too.

KW is incredibly overrated, except maybe their Clubsport line.

In this budget I would stick with BCor Bilstein followed by ST.

[Phil325i]

If your budget will stretch to them, Ohlins R&T are worth considering. Damper bodies are in aluminium, and treated to resist corrosion when tested to ISO 9227:2017 Corrosion tests in artificial atmospheres — Salt spray tests. And when they start to wear out, they can be stripped down and re-built using a service kit.

[desertman123]

I've heard plenty of people refer to BCs as "Bouncys"

[CALWATERBOY]

Originally Posted by Machspeed93

So I'm in the market for coilovers (have an e90 xDrive) and after reading numerous threads, I have narrowed BCs, KW V1s, and Bilstein B14s. I've read mixed reviews on all three brands which is why I'm wondering why KWs are almost double the cost of Bilsteins and BCs. Any insight/suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

And for reference, it's my DD so all I care about is longevity

I just go Koni. Yellows.

And Eibach linear springs - good response.

Lifetime warranty I personally have experience with Koni making good on....and bouncy they ain't but must be matched to springs for satisfying result. Koni will custom configure a set of yellows for anything you want.

Def talk to Jay at Ground Control, East of Sacramento, CA.