>no. coil overs have softer springs than an actual spring
>setup. that's why they can be clamped down and adjust ride
>height. that's also why they're bouncy.
>


Actually that is not true. Coilovers ALWAYS Have stiffer springs than a regular spring setup. The coilovers don't get clamped down to adjust ride height. You rotate the bottom spring perch collar to lower it. Height adjustment has nothing to do with the spring being soft or stiff. However, coilovers use stiffer springs because if you lower the car a lot, you need something stiffer so the car will not bottom out due to less shock travel. Many coilovers like Ground Control and Skunk2 are also designed for racing, so they are not the most comfortable ride. To give some perspective, most lowering springs are 200 to 350 ft lbs. Coilovers are usually 300 to 550 ft lbs. My skunk2's are 500 ft lbs. So of course they will be stiffer, but they will also handle really well on smooth roads. It's a sacrifice of comfort vs performance. My coilovers don't bounce - they just hit bumps hard, and absorb it fast, so you aren't bouncing, but you feel the bumps as you go over them.

Also, if you are considering Pro-kits vs Sportlines, go with Pro-kits for best performance, and sportlines if you want looks. The pro-kits perform way better because they still keep a good amount of shock travel. I trust Road Race Engineering's judgment on this since they are pro's in rally racing. Here's the info from their site:

"Eibach Pro Kit Springs
We strongly recommend purchasing a quality shock absorber along with these springs. They are approximately 20% stiffer than stock. The purpose of the shock is to control the spring energy. Get more spring & you need more shock. If you are on a budget and can't afford both, get shocks only for better handling. If your only purpose is to get all the chicks & look cool with a lousy ride, get springs only. $215 Set of 4

Sport Line pic, too low for our taste but looks cool. Rides bad and you have to slow down for everything 2G FWD Sport Line"

Sorry for the long post, I just wanted to correct some misinformation so you don't end up with the wrong choice based on what you really desire.