So my mother in law was always a bad driver but last fall it got to the point where it was clear from all the damage to her car that she needed to stop driving so we made her stop. I claimed the damage on insurance for her, they considered her 2013 Volvo S80 T6 a write-off, not because it's totally wrecked, but because she basically damaged every panel on the car minus the roof and trunk lid. So I bought the car back from insurance for $1700 because my 16yr old daughter is about to get her drivers license and it seems like a good fit (safe, cheep car).
Anyway it needs some dampers all around, and some rear trailing arm bushings. I'm thinking when she is done with it in a couple of years (or perhaps before), it might be fun to do some rallycross with it, and perhaps some ice driving events.
So, with the intent of keeping it in stock class, I am debating between Sachs and Koni Special Active. Special Actives will cost me an extra $250. I suspect the Konis would work well with the cars stock springs on our pot holes, er, I mean roads, here in Minneapolis. Any reason not to use them if the car will see RallyCross use? I want to keep the car in stock class.
Also, powerflex makes the rear trailing arm bushings the car needs, is that a problem for stock class? They are easier to diy install than stock and probably last a lot longer (oe ones are considered a week point).
I also thought of lifting the suspension with IPD spacers, but that probably isn't necessary for rallycross (and might change the class?), although a metal skid plate to protect the oil pan probably makes sense.
Lastly, I'm trying to stay low budget here (considering the car's condition) but I wonder if I should replace the 11yr old, 110k mile springs at the same time. A new set would cost me over $600 for oe and I don't see other choices for stock height springs, so it's tempting not to replace them but it would be a bummer if they broke in rallycross, especially on the front since I'd have to take apart the struts again. They don't look TOO rusty, but I'm sure there is some corrosion on them.
Thanks for any tips!
