So I'm debating whether to install the JCW 18.5mm versus the Minispeed/H&R/Alta 19mm rear sway bars in my 2008 R56 MC.

The JCW costs $135 at minispeed.net
http://www.minspeed.net/JCWRSB.htm

The Minispeed costs $189
http://www.minspeed.net/R56RSB.htm

The H&R costs $179 (on sale)
http://www.fastmini.net/hr19reswbar.html

The Alta costs $209.99
http://www.altaminiperformance.com/p...-Bar-Rear-19MM

My first question is, does the .5mm increase in diameter make a big enough difference in handling to make it worth the $44+ difference in cost between the JCW and the other sway bars?

My second question is, is there any difference in performance between the 19mm bars? They come in different colors... how nice... but other than that is there any performance difference between them?

Thanks for any advice you can give. I'd especially like to hear from people who have driven and compared the JCW versus one of the 19mm bars.

 

I would not purchase a JCW bar, it's more practical to get an adjustable one. Honestly, if you are not going to track your car; the stock bar is just fine. Spend the $ on springs instead...

I'd get this one: http://www.mini-madness.com/index.as...PROD&ProdID=59

 

If you want to get the JCW one, I have one that you could buy, with the bushings and all for like $100, if you're interested.

 

Not mentioned in your post but I feel one of the best options is the h-sport 19mm adjustable rear sway:

Hotchkis h-sport 19mm Rear Anti-roll bar



Features 3 mounting options (+54%, +88% & +128% Stiffer than Stock)

A big plus that separates this bar from many of the others are the greaseable bushings via zerk fittings on the mounting brackets. This makes lubing a breeze and all sway bars will need to be re lubed at some point.

Very durable finish and the 19mm size is perfect for street use.

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The differences in most bars are minor. One thing to notice are the ends. Some are welded on and some are forged, the latter being a smarter choice.

Let me know if I can help you in your decision making process,

-Cliff

 

Make sure you know what you are doing before adding a stiffer rear sway bar. The stock suspension is well balance. Adding a stiffer rear bar will change it to oversteer. You can accomplish the same thing by transferring weight to the front of the car while turning by braking or letting up on the trottle at the right moment.

I went for the 19mm H-Sport because of the adjustments and zerk fittings.

 

Nice looking bar. One question, however: the link you provided states that this is for an R50/52/53 and I have an R56. Are they compatible with both? It doesn't say yea or nea on your website. The only explicitly stated R56 sway bar that I see on your website is the Alta. It looks like your price is better than what I found on other websites for that product.

http://www.coasttocoastusa.com/zenca...products_id=57

Do you have any thoughts regarding the 18.5mm JCW versus the 19mm Alta rear sway bar?

Thanks for the info.

 

Any rear bar I have on my site will work with the R56 as well. The JCW seems to be a reasonably cheap alternative and will help reduce understeer to some extent. My money would go towards an adjustable 19mm due to the ability to play with the rear bar settings to find whats perfect for your driving style.

 

Yes I like the adjustability as well for that reason: the ability to dial it in so that it suits my style perfectly. Thanks for your post!

Do you know of any front sway bars that are/will soon be available for the MC R56?