In February, I took ownership of a 2011 Mustang GT 5.0 6-speed. The only options on my car were the Brembo performance brake and wheel package and the 3.73 rear gears. I wanted the fastest base Mustang GT I could buy, but yet even that was not without room for improvement.
My first step toward correcting the lackluster steering response and turn-in feel was to replace the spring and strut / shock assemblies. My components of choice were the off-the-shelf 2011 Mustang GT Eibach Pro-Kit Spring Set and a set of 2010 Mustang GT model Bilstein struts and shocks. Although Bilstein does not yet have a 2011 Mustang GT specific fitment at this time, the use of 2005-2010 Ford Racing strut mounts and the 2010 model Bilstein struts allowed me to successfully use the components. For a more plug and play application and a user friendly guaranteed fitment, consumers can purchase the matching Eibach Pro-Damper Kit which is specifically tuned for Eibach springs on the 2011 models and bolts up without any modification to the strut mount units.
At left is a picture of the factory 2011 Mustang GT front strut and its Bilstein rival. The differences in shaft size should be obvious. Upon installing this aftermarket suspension package, my 2011 GT feels like an entirely new car. It doesn't exhibit the floating feeling associated with the stock pieces, and generally feels firmer and more responsive. The steering inputs are met with crisp turn-in and the car behaves very neutral at the limit, which left me quite surprised.
For questions on suspension and more, contact one of our sales specialists.
Any reason why you chose the Bilsteins? Thanks!
At the time the Koni's were on a national backorder. In addition, I was looking for a firmer ride and certianly found it with the thicker less passive monotube Bilstein's. Both options are excellent choices though. While the twin-tube Koni's may be a tad softer than a monotube shock they do also offer adjustment and are a great performance offering.
Switching to an aftermarket stiffer suspension will only build upon this problem. Your only real option to increase ride comfort is to ditch the 19" wheels in favor of an 18". While this can be done, it is not common, as not many 18" wheels offered clear the Brembo brakes.