Replacing "Classic" shocks/springs with "sport/avantegarde"

[GGB]

I'm considering replacing the shocks and springs on my 99T w202 c220 cdi and wondered if it was possible to replace the original fit shocks and springs with those supplied for the sport model w202 c220 (or avantegarde) which I believe are slightly lower/firmer. I don't want the teeth rattling experience of driving with after market lowering springs/shocks and am assuming that MB originals or eurocarparts bits etc. will be fine?

The reason for the change is possible damage to the front offside suspension post a pothole incident!

 

[OmniCognateNeutronRangler]

I have a W203 with avantgarde suspension and apparently (according to our friends in the former Eastern Block) the additional sports suspension package. It looks pretty cool, a good 2 inches lower than the the standard Avantgarde. You can tell becaus the top of my rear-tyres are only about 1 cm below the wheel arch BUT the ride is definately on the firm side and a tad noisy (fat tyres too).

This is based on a 2003 C-class but I would say if you want the classic MB "Smooth" ride you'll be disapointed if you add all the sports suspension stuff. Goes round corners well though

 

[GGB]

Thanks for the swift reply, I'm not too worried about the smooth ride, I'm more concerned with the bottoming out/scraping sound from the front off side wheel when I drive over moderate bumps in the road (sounds like mudflap). (Only really become apparant since the aforementioned pothole). Though it would be nice if it cornered a little better!

 

[OmniCognateNeutronRangler]

Haven't bottomed-out yet but the front wheel do hit the inside of the front wheel arch on full lock. I'm not sure if that is because if the size of the tyres (225/50's - standard fit with the car, not aftermarket drug-dealer wheels) or the suspension.

 

[GGB]

Lock to lock is fine with my 17" MB originals (fitted after market), I've only really noticed it when driving at regular speeds on my normal commute. It also pulls a bit to the left now I think of it but that is probably a whole new can of worms!

 

[OmniCognateNeutronRangler]

Pulls to the left.....where have I heard that before?! Very common theme, but tends to be on newer models. Mine has never pulled to the left so maybe the suspension options on my car cures that particular problem

My wheels are only 16" so I suspect it is the suspension that is causing the lock issue (not really a problem).

 

[GGB]

My other c220 doesn't pull to the left at all (but that's an estate "esprit" which I think also has the revised/upgraded suspension)