My first impressions is how bumpy, firm and extremely stiff the 530i now handles. I knew the ride was going to be more harsh, but I did not expect it to be so bouncy and bone shattering. Going over large bumps and dips is like going on a roller coaster, you feel front end dive and then recoil hard. Watching the rear view mirror shimmy and shake while driving is something new.
Not all is unpleasant with the H&R and Bilstein upgrade. The car feels planted and confidence inspiring on the highways and smooth roads. Turning into corners and canyon driving is a blast and this is where the sporty setup shines. I can take corners with much more stability and poise than ever before.
So is it worth going from OEM to H&R and Bilstein sports? I say yes. The setup is much cheaper than replacing with OEM parts and looks even more sporty. All the annoyances go away once you turn into a corner. Another benefit is how flat and stable the 530i feels under braking and accelerating, no more dipping and diving at stop lights.
If comfort is you are looking for, then go for OEM.
Update 1: I love the way sporty and conservative look with the springs. Time for some bigger wheels to fill the wheel well.
After driving a couple of hundred miles, I would say the ride is less jarring than run flats. I still find it funny during braking and feeling the car rock back and forth because the ride is so stiff.
Update 2: 10 months later and the ride is still very firm but a dream on the highway. Going into bends at 80 mph or attacking interchanges and hairpins is where the Bilsteins and H&R combo really shines. It feels so effortless and confidence inspiring on the highway.
Driving on city streets is still jarring but it has gotten better. I wouldn't say my ride is ruined like I read on the E39 forums but its still very bumpy.
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