Javelin
MegaDork
2/28/19 12:53 p.m.
Driving a lowered Mazda5 is starting to get on my nerves. The roads here resemble cratered battlefields, there's rocks everywhere, and my back can't handle it anymore. Instead of low and 18's I need rally suspension and sidewall.
What all should I look at? New suspension and wheels/tires?
I'd like 5-15 years old, $10k or less, versatile cargo space (so wagons!), and fun to drive. I love everything about my 5 except the suspension and the transmission (autotragic).
Javelin
MegaDork
2/28/19 12:54 p.m.
Oh, and the current suspension is KYBs with H&R springs, SPC camber arms, and 18x9 Motegis with 225/40/18 Cooper RS3s.
Buy the smallest wheels that'll clear your brakes and appropriate tires. Swap in stock springs.
Didn't you just describe half the cars in the PNW......The Outback?
I just tried to talk my wife into a Saab 9-3 wagon with a V6 and a manual trans that had 110,000 miles and was for sale for $2600. She said no. I want another Range Rover. Then I tried to talk her into a 2004 Jaguar XJ8 Vanden Plas that was immaculate, no I want another Range Rover. Yesterday it was an immaculate BMW 740i with 90,000 miles it was a maybe. I've also looked at several Range Rovers in the last few months. All were overpriced and not something I would pull the trigger on. Point being, Saabs are fun, reliable, carry a bunch of stuff in wagon form, and they are way underpriced.
Lift the 5, slam sime 16s and tall sidewalls on it.
Nothing will be cheaper and better known than what you have already paid for and maintained.
captdownshift said:
https://seattle.craigslist.org/see/cto/d/seattle-2005-volvo-v50-awd-6-speed/6788348254.html
Oooh, I had no idea that existed! Turbo manual Volvo wagon goodness...
Dusterbd13-michael said:
Lift the 5, slam sime 16s and tall sidewalls on it.
Nothing will be cheaper and better known than what you have already paid for and maintained.
I didn't come here for practicality and sage advice!
In reply to Javelin :
It's basically a detuned previous generation focus RS with a haldex in wagon guise. Viva performance can upgrade the engine spec to RS trim rather easily.
i love my Toyota Matrix XRS. Bone stock 180 hp 6 speed manual, 8500 rpm redline and ive hauled EVERYTHING in it. Add trailer hitch like i did for hitch rack and lawnmower trailer
how 'bout a Mazda3 hatch, manual. and an 15xwhatever, LSD, and D2 Rally Coilovers?
Rallycross suspension and tons of sidewall. Apply liberally to car of choice.
Edit: to expand, 20-40% stiffer springs, decent dampers, stock to a 1/2 inch higher, smallest wheels that will fit with the proper size tires. Sway bars to suit. If you want that post apocalypse look go up 3/4 to 1 inch and upsize tires to match. Add home made brush guard and lights.
In reply to Javelin :
Would the natural progression be a used Mazda CX5, manual trans with mildly larger off road tires?
Sadly, manual trans means fwd only on Mazda CX5
John Welsh said:
In reply to Javelin :
Would the natural progression be a used Mazda CX5, manual trans with mildly larger off road tires
We have a winner right there! They are starting to creep into the sub $10k range. I would drive another in a heartbeat..
Javelin
MegaDork
2/28/19 10:15 p.m.
mazdeuce - Seth said:
Rallycross suspension and tons of sidewall. Apply liberally to car of choice.
Edit: to expand, 20-40% stiffer springs, decent dampers, stock to a 1/2 inch higher, smallest wheels that will fit with the proper size tires. Sway bars to suit. If you want that post apocalypse look go up 3/4 to 1 inch and upsize tires to match. Add home made brush guard and lights.
Mazda 5 Paris-Dakar Rally boxtruck version? Hmmmm...
dj06482
UltraDork
2/28/19 10:21 p.m.
I had also had KYBs with lowering springs, and it felt like the ride became more harsh over time.
I like the going back to stock button. First, you can see if you like it better. And secondly, if you want to sell, it makes it a heck of a lot easier.