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Eibach and Bilstein – Best Suspension Options

2015-2021 Dodge Challenger on Eibach PRO-KIT Performance Springs
Eibach vs. Bilstein? Which brand performs better? Read our take on the best suspension options.
AUG 11, 2021

When it comes to suspensions, specifically shocks, two brands are head and shoulders above the competition. Eibach and Bilstein, both old German companies with a long history of superior engineering, innovation, precision manufacturing processes, and extensive experience with high-end vehicles and the racing world make shocks. However, Eibach and Bilstein take different approaches in their product design, raising the question, which is best?

The end-user defines “Best,” and different people have different expectations. For example, the driver of a RAM 1500 with a 6-inch lift has other suspension concerns than the driver of a Formula 1 machine that sits 2 inches off the ground. And then there are the luxury vehicles like Mercedes-Benz and BMW that will never voluntarily go off-roading or ripping around a track. The best shock is the one that meets the user’s specific requirements. One size does not fit all.

Check out these popular products from Eibach and Bilstein and make up your own mind.

The Eibach Story

Founded in 1951, Eibach started as a spring manufacturer providing high-quality springs for toys, nuclear power plants, residential earthquake protection, and other uses. Then, in 1975 they jumped into the automotive industry and became an Original Equipment Manufacturer of springs, dampers, and other components for the likes of Audi, Bugatti, and Lotus. Those relationships led to the racing world with virtually every Formula 1 team riding on Eibach. Today, the same engineering and high-quality manufacturing are available to everyone as an aftermarket product.

    Eibach vs. Bilstein: Eibach Pro-Kit Performance Springs

    Pro-Kit Performance Springs

    If you are serious about performance, then you have to get serious about your suspension setup. Eibach’s Pro-Kit performance springs are specifically designed to improve street performance and give your ride an aggressive hot look. With progressive spring design and precision-tuned spring rates, the Pro-Kit will lower the vehicle’s center of gravity, dramatically reduce squat during acceleration, nose-diving when braking, and body roll in corners. In addition, when paired with low-profile wheels and tires, Pro-Kit reduces excess fender well clearance giving your ride the hot appearance you are looking for. Kits are available for most popular street performance models.

    Eibach vs. Bilstein: Eibach Pro-Spacers Wheel Spacers

    Pro-Spacers Wheel Spacers

    Wheel spacers can be tricky, but they can provide various advantages when properly used and of high quality. Eibach’s Pro-Spacers are engineered and manufactured to meet every wheel spacer need. For example, fitment, where a replacement wheel has the wrong offset, is a common reason drivers purchase spacers. Eibach’s Pro-Spacer hub-centric wheel spacers come model specific in widths ranging from 5mm to 30mm. By pushing the wheel further away from the brake caliper, the wheel spacer increases track width, increasing stability, particularly for SUVs with a high center of gravity. Eibach employs the same excellent engineering and precision manufacturing standards for its spacers as it does for its renowned suspension springs.

    The Bilstein Story

    Bilstein has been around for well over a century but made its name in automotive suspension when in 1954, it introduced the first monotube gas pressure shock absorber on standard production Mercedes-Benz vehicles.  Providing a lighter gas pressure shock that could be installed in any position and offered superior performance is viewed as a significant technological advance in suspensions. In addition, Bilstein’s relationship with Mercedes-Benz and AMG led to new, specifically engineered gas shocks for the motorsport industry, where Bilstein shocks became a standard for many motorsport teams. Today, the company makes a broad line of suspension components designed for street, track, and rough terrain. 

      Eibach vs. Bilstein: Bilstein 5800 Series Shocks

      Bilstein 5800 Series Shocks

      Specifically designed for lifted trucks, these monotube nitrogen-charged shocks fit factory-installed mounting configurations but with extended length to accommodate the needs of a lift suspension. As a result, the 5800 series is a must-have for truck owners who take their rigs off-road. Popular among Tundra, Tacoma, 4Runner, and Ram 1500 owners, the Bilstein 5800 shocks for lifted suspensions prove to be durable as well as flexible. In addition, thanks to an ability to quickly adapt to terrain conditions, the 5800 series shocks offer a comfortable, controlled ride on asphalt as well as on the trail. Excellent performance and a long service life make these shocks a no-brainer for lifted pickup trucks.

      ​​​​​​​Eibach vs. Bilstein: Bilstein B8 5100 Adjustable Lift Struts

      B8 5100 Adjustable Lift Struts

      Half-ton trucks and SUVs often need components to “level out” the front end. Coil springs are frequently used to beef up the front suspension, and if you precisely pick the right size, you will get a level appearance. However, Bilstein has an affordable better idea, and that is their B8 5100 Adjustable Lift Strut. As the name suggests, these monotube gas shocks are adjustable, allowing you to choose from four lift distances. Designed to fit OEM mounting configurations, the 5100 series is relatively easy to install and gives you the option to change the lift distance without purchasing new components. Get the look you want and a stiffer, sportier ride with the B8 5100 Adjustable shocks.

      Not surprisingly, you will find products from both, Eibach and Bilstein, used on the same professional performance vehicle because the driver wants the absolute best for their driving style. And that’s the way to look at Eibach and Bilstein. Select the products that will deliver what you want best.
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