So the question is: what is the difference between the BC coilovers and the more expensive options (like Billstein PSS9 and Ground Control)? Is it the availability of supply? Is it the manufacturing process? What is it about them that makes them good but so affordable?
C-
As a proponent of both products, I have had opportunities to talk with both companies throughout my time and here's what I've been able to gather.
The Bilstein's West HQ is located in San Diego local to me. Their manufacturing process takes place in Germany with LOTS of hours of road test and damper R&D. The technology that they employ is expensive. Also, their manufacturing process is also rather expensive. The guy I spoke to noted something like 'most of the cost comes down to about 60% manufacturing, and 40% R&D, both of which are expensive in Germany' IIRC. He further noted that longevity plays a part also, as he has never accounted for a part failing or prematurely wore. Moreover, he mentioned that the majority of buyers of PSS9, or coilovers in general, never push the car to the limits of the suspension components, as they DO in R&D. He could reduce his R&D time, however, he would not be able to deliver a product that is up to par with the level of quality Bilstein is known for.
I've had the chance to own (briefly) and inspect the BC Coilovers to the best of my ability and compared it to my PSS9. The system itself is very well built. I was very impressed with the build quality right out of the box. What I cannot comment on is longevity, however, understand that they do have a reasonable replacement policy/cost. BC Racing coilovers has actually been around for a long time, they just recently began to expand their reach into the BMW and European car brands. BC Racing, otherwise known as Buddy Club Racing, has had a long history of motorsports in Japanese cars. They are HQ in the UK, but I am uncertain about where they are really manufactured. However, I can only assume that through their manufacturing process, their 'cost' is substantially less than what I'm sure Ground Control, PSS9, and any other premium suspension manufacturer pays, which we can see in their price of $1xxx. Also, I do not believe that BC Racing has put as much R&D into their systems as others would/are. Given this, let's assume that they both pay approximately the same to manufacturer their respective coilover system (~60%) but Bilstein invests their extra 40% in R&D whereas BC only invests 10%. That alone would show a price difference in their MSRP price.
Also, they are both built a bit different, which I'm sure plays into the cost also. With the PSS9, you can adjust the dampers from under the car, without removing any panels. IIRC, the rear dampers on the BC Racing require the removal of the trunk panels to access. Moreover, PSS9 do not have camber kits, whereas BC Racing does include front camber kits in the price (rears optional IIRC). The PSS9 incorporate a 2-collared system to raise/lower the car. BC Racing incorporates a 2-collared system as well as the ability to turn the entire shock housing to do the same adjustments.
What comes to mind is how we all know Dinan puts so much money/time [= money] into R&D, and it is reflected in the price. Take intakes for example. One can argue that Dinan CAI and Cosmo Racing CAI is identical in design, however, one cost more than the other. One is proven, had lots of R&D time/money invested, and also carries a certain level of customer service backing their product. I believe that although BC Racing coilovers are less expensive, it doesn't detract from the quality of the system, especially for what the majority of us use our beasts for, occasional spirited driving, etc. The difference is about $1000 (I'm not sure what they go for now, but I paid $2k for my PSS9 in 2007), which I can see as an indicator of more funds that Bilstein and GC invested/higher costs of labor/higher cost of materials from their given source when compared with BC Racing.
Another thing to consider is how many units per order both companies produce. It might be that BC Racing orders a larger quantity of units at a given time to reduce the overall cost per unit, whereas Bilstein may only order a small quantity and on a need-basis.
With all things considered, BC Racing coilovers do offer a lot of bang for the buck. Just like with a lot of other things on our cars, the value of the higher price tag is in the eye of the beholder.
The BC Racing kit was not available at the time I was making my decision on coilovers. My real choices were Dinan Stage 2, GC, and PSS9, all of which showed marginal price differences. Had this kit been available, I may have had a different decision making process.
subscribed for discussion relevant to my interests and future decisions.
I to am swayed by the price point of these and the fact that (like ground control) they are a bolt up solution. I loved my pss9's on my old VW but the price difference is noticeable between them and even ground controls, and the 'necessary' bushes and mounts are still required (I know not 'required' but I think it would be pointless to have everything out of the car and not do them at this point, personally, so they will be getting done if I go this route myself).
DrFraserCrane-
There is nothing more required to install the BC Racing coilovers, as it comes ready to install w/ pillow ball top hats on all sides. The PSS9 system reuses the stock components, although it is recommended that while you have the system out, that you replace those components with new/fresh OEM parts.
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