S2000toIS350

Okay lets try again regarding the sports suspension.

I am look for what parts are different in the sports suspension (like short springs or shocks or sway bars).

So far, I have not seen any details on this.

cooney

Not sure what's happened to this thread.

Does anyone know yet specifically what changes were made to create the "sport tuned suspension" in the Sport Package of the IS350?

flipside909

This is verbatim from Page 21 of 43 of the 2006 IS250/350 Product Info found in our Press Kit. I don't have time to cut and upload the page like i've done on previous pages but this will give you an idea:


Sport tuned suspension consists of:

a) Special tuning for increased responsiveness
b) available on all RWD IS models
1) includes 18" tires
c) springs are 1/2" shorter vs. std. suspension
1) same spring rate
d) same anti-roll bars
e) shock dampening is slightly stiffer overall
1) compared to std on RWD

Courtesy of: Lexus USA

So to answer your question, the Sport suspension consists of 1/2" drop springs w/same spring rate, different shock dampening and the optional 18" wheel/tire combo. This setup will satisfy many but not the hardcore enthusiasts.

cooney

Ryan,

Thanks a lot for this info. I really appreciate it.

As it appears that you've been there, could you give us a ballpark estimate of what it might cost (a) to make the springs "1/2" shorter vs. std. suspension", and (b) to make the "shock dampening . . . slightly stiffer overall."

Those two changes, plus substituting 18" wheels, seem to be the only things done to create the "sport-tuned suspension" in the IS350's optional ST - Sport Package.

Separately, on whether the tilt-down mirrors are included in the ST - Sport Package, I noticed that they are not on the list for that option that you just posted here.

Thanks again.

flipside909

If you go with a regular IS250 or IS350 and do aftermarket upgrades yourself i.e. springs/shocks or even coilovers, this would probably result in a cheaper or equal amount cost-wise compared to the Sport Package setup. But with aftermarket, you obviously have more choices as far as far as drop/spring rate as well as aftermarket shock choices.

The option list I posted was information that was updated for August 2005. There have been a few revisions of options from the time that info was given to us and up to now.

cooney

Do shorter springs actually improve the handling, or is this mostly cosmetic? (Which is not to say that lowering the car is not very nice looking!)

I guess I assume that from a handling perspective, (1) the most important change is the lower aspect ratio tires on the larger wheels, which one can get on the IS350 for $720, and (2) the next most important change would be upgrading to good aftermarket shocks.

Do you agree?

flipside909

Yes because it lowers the center of gravity. With the retention of the stock spring rate, it will maintain the natural balance characteristics. With aftermarket lowering springs w/stiffer rates, it will only improve handling at the cost of comfort.

Agreed.

cooney

I see. Thanks much.

BaLLzZz

Off Topic. I am coming from a tl so i dont think the 250 would be quick enough for me i am desiring that 350's engine. Anyways after a test drive i will tell you what i think.

flame

Great info, you just gave me a good idea. The $9600 for the canadian IS250 sport package is hard to digest so I can take a base model and order the Lexus sport springs, shocks and 18inch wheels. I could then work out a deal with a local garage for the installation.

One question, do you know if the brakes are the same for both options.

flipside909

Yes brakes are the same across the board for each of their designations IS250 RWD & AWD, IS350. I'll post the info later when I get home.

IS JOE

Hey Cooney, L-tuned was a performance package for the 1st gen IS. Here's a good article about it: http://www.canadiandriver.com/articles/hl/03is300.htm

As for what suspension mods are desireable... the options can pretty much be endless. There are entire sections of forums dedicated to discussing suspension mods. I've learned a lot from reading those. As the new IS is on the market longer, more companies will start producing products for it.