Adjustable dampers - do they really work?
It seems that every time I read a road test of a sporty car, the reviewer raves about adjustable dampers/adaptive chassis.
I am in the market for a sporty car and I like the notion of dialling "comfort" when taking on the normal, pothole-riddled main roads of this country but then dialling "standard," or even "sport" when the roads allow. Do they really work, or am I wasting my time?
I am in the market for a sporty car and I like the notion of dialling "comfort" when taking on the normal, pothole-riddled main roads of this country but then dialling "standard," or even "sport" when the roads allow. Do they really work, or am I wasting my time?
Asked on 24 November 2014 by Bradway
Answered by
Honest John
In my experience it makes no difference on a Scirocco where the settings are firm, hard and backbreaking. But on a Mercedes or a BMW it does make a difference as long as it is combined with wheels and tyres that aren't going to put back the hardness that the suspension takes out.
Similar questions
I'm 69 with arthritis and sensitivity to vibration. I need a very comfortable ride/seat with a high seating position. My comfort standard is a Citroen XM. Is there anything at all that comes close?
What petrol car do you suggest for easy OAP access and a comfortable ride?
My 10 year old Peugeot 307 SW, which I have enjoyed, needs replacing. Both the new SEAT Ateca 1.4 petrol DSG (18-inch wheels) and the new Volkswagen Golf Estate 1.5 petrol DSG (16-inch wheels) suit my...

