1972 Springs in a 1981 Spider?

[sjmst]

Most of you know how the 1980/81 etc Spiders sit rather high up. I got some 1972 Spider springs for next to nothing.
Anyone know if there would be any fitment problems?
I also would not want to compromise the ride, so any idea if the ride would be about the same?
My goal was to lower the car just a little without getting a harsh ride. In other words better looks and maybe a little better handling.
Thanks
Sam

[So Cal Mark]

should go right in, hopefully the old springs aren't sagged at all

[stefhahn]

Just did this conversion this spring on my '79 - but: I did sandblast the old springs beforehand and painted them afterwards. Sandblasting is told to re-harden them. I love the look.

ciao,
Stefan

[sjmst]

Ah, I see this is not some on off idea!
Thanks, all.

[bradartigue]

They work great; ran every 2000 Spider I had with early springs. Much better than the so-called performance springs IMHO, the ride height is correct and the ride quality is great.

[RevDave]

Does anyone know where I can find a set of four such (early model) springs? I'd like to do that same conversion to my '82 Spider. [Mark, did I read somewhere that you had a bunch of them laying around?]

Also, how difference would these spring be than say - cutting one loop out of my current springs? Would the ride-height be lower than the early springs? Similar? Still a bit higher?

What about the ride - as I understand that cutting springs tends to increase the spring rate? Ideally I would like the car to ride similar to stock, but a little bit firmer would be OK.Thanks for your expertise and insight!

Thanks - Dave

[mdrburchette]

I have a set I'd be willing to sell from my 72 project car. PM me if interested.