Versus Sport Coilovers for BMW E36 Compact

Coilover or Separate Springs ?

This model of adjustable suspension offers you the choice between "inboard" springs (OEM style with separate set-up), or coilover springs (spring around the shock absorber). Generally lighter and easier to adjust, coilover springs are recommended for tuned vehicles, equipped with a roll cage or used in motorsport. Note that between a coilover assembly or a separate assembly, the spring rates can be different : this is a difference in technical design due to the shape of the springs, the design of the vehicle's axles, or even the position of the original springs on the chassis. In feel and use, the separate and coilover models show no significant difference in driving performance or comfort.

Versus Sport Coilovers for BMW E36 Compact Specifications

The Sport range from Versus is ideal for versatile sports use, on the road or on the circuit (trackdays, drifting, etc.). It allows you to take full advantage of your vehicle's dynamic abilities thanks to a high-pressure monotube design, guaranteeing a perfect compromise between comfort and performance. Versus Sport coilovers offer greater endurance than twin-tube (Street) models, while maintaining excellent durability. What's more, the front shock absorbers are inverted to reduce unsprung mass.

The damping can be adjusted to 16 stages, and the ride height can be set over a wide range by moving the damper body itself, not using spring preload. So, unlike many other coilovers, damping is not affected by lowering, even with the ride height set to minimum.

This range features pillowball aluminium top mounts at the front, offering precise camber and caster adjustment (specific information about springs and top mounts is available in the table below). The Versus coilovers use the stock brake line mountings and feature an anti-corrosion coating and dust caps for excellent durability. Depending on the car model (if the length of the dampers allows it), helper springs ensure immediate response of the shock absorbers during instant rebound and improve tyre-ground contact in the most critical conditions.

Why Inverted Shock Absorbers?

A shock absorber is considered “inverted” when it is installed upside‑down. This layout delivers faster response, superior dynamic behaviour, and durability that perfectly meets the demands of a sports or competition car.

• Reduced unsprung mass: In an inverted configuration, the heavy damper body is fixed to the chassis instead of the wheel. Shifting several hundred grams to the body shell lets the wheel react more quickly to surface irregularities, improving grip, traction, and comfort on rough pavement.
• High lateral rigidity: The larger‑diameter shaft flexes less when the strut absorbs lateral loads (braking, cornering, drifting), providing better lateral grip than a conventional suspension. Ideal for drifting!
• Better heat resistance: The small piston sits nearer the wheel, exposed to greater airflow, while the main oil volume stays higher up, insulated from brake heat radiation. This design is perfect for prolonged track sessions or special stages.