Hi Team,

I'd like to get some information on the differences in OEM suspension between the RWD and AWD 997 versions. Suspension itself, ride height, any bracing differences, etc. I'm not looking to debate the merits of AWD vs. RWD, please.

If I missed a sticky or something when I searched for this, just point me the right direction and I'll go there.

Background:

I've been a BMW guy for the last 15 years, and also had a 2003 Boxster S a while. I've owned RWD and xDrive BMWs, and have become very familiar with the compromises BMW requires you to make if you want an xDrive car.

Specifically, on the 3, 4, 5, and 7 series, it is not possible to buy an xDrive car that also has the BMW sport suspension, which we know as option code 704. Instead, BMW outfits those cars with the standard suspension - which has become increasingly soft in the latest generation of cars - and they require you to purchase the Dynamic Handling Package (DHP) in order to bring the driving experience back to par. DHP, however, costs $1000 to $3500, depending on model, and in the case of the 5 series, which I have now, is not tuned aggressively enough for my taste. Also, BMW raises the xDrive cars 10mm compared to the RWD equivalents and I don't like the way that looks.

I used to drive a RWD 5 series with the Sport suspension. In Denver, with a set of snow tires, it was fine.

I plan to move to a 997.2 next. I could go AWD or RWD and be content - just checking the facts.

Thanks, good to be here.

 

I believe the sport suspension was an option on the C4. The C4S certainly has it.

The C4 rear is just shy of 2 inches wider than the C2. Mine has the 19" carrera wheels and 19/305 in the rear. Looks better than the C2, IMHO. I prefer the AMD, with traction control off the rear breaks loose but the front pulls you through....great feeling.