Beck Conv D

FYI Marty just went from 914 to 911 front end with sway bars in his ventilated Subie.  

I went from torsion bars to a full 911 front end with sways front and rear and in my opinion it is just not the same car to drive.  More costly for sure but the handling is not comparable.  Ray 

Correct Ray, we also widened my rear rims to 7.5 inches and added 15mm rear sway bar from Porches 944. Also, a new engine support and stock Subaru motor mounts. 

Good for you, Marty.  I assume you've already noticed the difference in the feel of your car.  Suspension does make a difference.

I know Henry will use front VW torsion bars with rear VW IRS on the 1600 cc cars (or at least he used to).  But anything more powerful he will use the 914 suspension up front.  Obviously you guys with the big dog power require the 911 pieces.  Just think evolution of power will require improvements in handing.  I'm not trying to break Carey's balls.  I applaud him for developing the D.  Just saying that with 175 hp + the car would benefit from better handling.  On the other hand with the smaller mid engine spyder and its low weight the current suspension is fine even in a 175 hp car.  I know.  I had one.

After the restoration I took my IM on a three-day road trip, with my buddy driving his supercharged 1992 Miata, with lowered springs, Koni shocks and thicker sway bars.  With my pan car (Koni shocks and thicker sway bars) I had no problem keeping up with him through the twisties.  MInd you, we kept our speeds at a sane level and never went 'flat-out' (I save my flat-out driving for the track).

I had a chance to put my IM through 4 laps on our local race track.  The car handled very well up to a point and then wanted to plow like a farmer.  The old VW beetle front end didn't like being pushed to the limit. 

I'm sure with enough track time I could dramatically improve the car's handling, but what's the point.  My car seems the happiest at 7/10 or under.  If the car could talk I think she would say, "Hey owner, if you want to go faster buy a Boxster".