Hi Zebbstar,
I'm also on the Sunshine Coast (Ilkley).
Today I finally got around to getting my new spring & shocks fitted. (Mazda quote for 2 front shocks was $880 was all the incentive I needed to look around
..
Ended up getting an Eibach & Bilstein combo for around $1000 & fitting for $550.
Was not looking for a big drop & was concerned that the ride would be too harsh, (been there, done that , now too old..)
I'll put some photo's up later , Pre eibach height was (measured from top of wheel arch to rim (in a direct line to center of rim--standard rims also).
Before - Front passenger 132mm, Front Drivers 140mm, Rear passenger 123mm, Rear Drivers 120mm
After - Front passenger 120mm, Front Drivers 120mm, Rear passenger 115mm, Rear Drivers 115mm
all measured with 1/2 a tank of fuel. So it doesn't have that slammed look
but sits better than before.
Can't hear any difference on the road & was concerned that it would 'crash' over pot holes, not the case.
Hit a cat eye in centre of road & didn't sound any harsher than standard.
Feels somewhat more planted at road speeds, don't know yet (& probably won't for some time) find out just how much better it is
BIG difference going around a round-a- bout, nose seems to turn where it is pointed, & lost that wallowing feeling.
So far happy with the change over.
Will know more next time I go to Willowbank.
Next is the white line rear sway bar - but in all honesty as it is now a daily driver (wife decided she like to drive it) I don't know if it will be warranted.