mk 4 handling upgrades - where to start

[fivepints]

Hi there, tried posting this on the Q&A section but maybe I'll have more luck here.

Any suggestions on how to;

1) Reduce understeer and,
2) Smooth out the ride,

in an 03 Ibiza 130?

Bodyroll isn't so much of a problem and I can handle the wiggly steering when doing bumps and bends at speed, it's the understeer I want shot of.

There is much talk of springs and dampers, plus mention of strut braces but I'm wondering where my money would be best spent, what is the general concensus?

Any help would be greatfully received, despite having driven for over ten years, this is the first car I've actually owned so I'm new to all this.

 

[EdButler]

Its very hard to do both at the same time! Its generally either/or - with better handling comes stiffer suspension which will generally make the ride more crashy (unless your going to spend about £1000 on fully adjustable coilovers)

In short:

• Coilovers or Matched springs/shockers will help you lots but will worsen the ride quality generally due to a shorter compression allowance.
• Get some decent rubber (people have their own opinions) but Toyo's will be good as Spring/Summer is looming.
• Wider Tyres will help you to a degree, but go too high and youll sacrifice speed, accelleration and your camber will be wrong (worse handling) - remember weight of wheels increases exponentially at speed, so bigger tyres/rims makes a BIG difference to performance.
• Lower profile tyres - stops the tyre wall from rolling over while cornering meaning more tyre is in contact with the road.
• Strut Braces will help stop the body from twisting resulting in more stability in corners, however a more crashy ride. The body is already very stiff!
• Driving Course - Learn how to juggle the steering, accelleration and brakes when cornering. Gonna get myself on one o these advanced courses in the summer.

 

[Sisson]

Just to add, Ive had FK Silverline coilovers fitted and the ride is no harsher than standard, But alot less crashy round corners

 

[dmjw01]

Learn how to juggle the steering, accelleration and brakes when cornering.

If you're touching the brakes during a corner, you really do need that course!

 

[EdButler]

If you're touching the brakes during a corner, you really do need that course!

Durrr you know what i mean!