Thought I’d throw it out there that I’d like to maintain the stock original look.

Most seem to recommend the Bilsteins that have the least stock appearing look of the options. No doubt a great performer but tough to go this route.

Koni Classic would have a more stock appearance if you painted them black but previous threads mention slight mounting issues in the front and rear, nothing that can’t be overcome

Then I found a “Factory Style” offered by a company called Rare Parts, they appear to be a nice visual option but I can’t say that I know anyone with then, how well they perform, or how well they last.

We know two of the three as being very reliable performance oriented companies. Looking to see if anyone has opinions or have used the Rare Parts option. All are in the same basic price range.

Here’s some pics as reference

And the Rare Parts offering

Monroe 32022 front and 32073 rear will cost you about $100 or less for the set of four. Try amazon or google. You just need to paint them black.

Here is one site offering great pricing: https://www.stockwiseauto.com/

Search the parts numbers above.

Well from a cost perspective I love the idea but I had a set on the car and that timed out during the build.
2 of the 4 are leaking oil and I’m unsure I want to travel the same path again
Good thought though.

The rare parts shocks look exactly like the Gabriel gas shocks that are for sale on eBay for $100 for all 4. I have had a set on a car for 20 years, no leaks, but of course they are not koni type quality. The only other issue was the front lower bolt sleeve was not serrated where it goes in the control arm, but many new shocks are not, make sure you use a torque wrench and get them tight, also if the inside of the control arm is worn from previous shocks a little weld and grind is in order. Check it out.

Honestly the Monroes are fine from a performance perspective for the way this car gets driven. My big hesitation is the current experiance with leaking, 1 front, 1 rear. Of course the cost to step up to one of the 3 options mentioned is a pretty good jump.