Kind of backs-up what my mechanic said: fit aftermarket springs with stock shocks, and there's a high probability that sooner or later the shocks will leak.
Quick update from me two months on from having the VWR/Racingline shock and spring kit fitted...
The ride is no less comfortable than before - possibly a touch softer - although I would say it's slightly stiffer and more sensitive to lumps and bumps in the road, which I would say is to be expected. Hope that doesn't sound too contradictory. Living in London I've definitely had to recalibrate how I approach sleeping policemen and the like. Handling wise, night and day over the stock setup, and actually shows up the Ed30's suspension as being pretty dire - such a shame that VW skimped on this element and the brakes. Loads of confidence when cornering, and overall the car just feels so much more planted, especially when at speed. Aesthetically i.e. the drop height, it's exactly what I wanted. I was careful when choosing the springs that the car wouldn't look Barry'd/slammed and IMO it's now sitting beautifully - approx. 15-20mm lower. Interested to see how it copes on the track this summer. Recommended.
All work done by BMS Cars in West Sussex - www.bms-cars.co.uk
"a touch softer". I found the VWR kit to be a bit too soft for my driving style. Spot on 90% of the time but occasionally the tyres would scuff the front arches on fast, tight corners. A touch too much lean. Perhaps could be tuned out with stiffer ARBs but I don't like deviating from stock where they are concerned. I'm not sure they are stiff enough for track work, but see how you get on. I also found the progressive springs a little unpredictable with the varying ambient conditions on some corners. I switched them out for linear spring rate coilovers, retained 80% of the comfort but way less lean in the corners.
