Description
On the 1998–2004 Audi A6/S6/Volkswagen Passat W8 (C5/4B/C5S/3BS), KW V3 is best approached as a chassis-tuning upgrade first and a ride-height change second.
KW V3 is built around independent low-speed rebound and compression adjustment. KW's current V3 architecture provides 16 rebound clicks and 12 compression clicks, giving an enthusiast meaningful control over chassis support, response and ride without moving into a dedicated motorsport damper. The application-specific calibration is intended to give the chassis a more deliberate response than a one-size-fits-all suspension combination.
Why Choose the KW V3 for This Application?
Choose the V3 when the car needs a broader operating window. Independent rebound and compression control makes it easier to balance ride, platform support and tire contact as the build moves between street use and more demanding driving.
Key Features
- 16-click low-speed rebound adjustment
- 12-click low-speed compression adjustment
- Independent rebound and compression tuning
- Continuously adjustable ride height within the application-specific range
Vehicle Fitment
- Make: Audi
- Application: A6, S6 (C5, 4B, C5S)
- Configuration: Sedan + Avant; Quattro; all engines
- KW Jobber Model Years: 98-04
- KW Part Number: 35210026
Technical Specifications
- Front Height Adjustment: 40-75 mm (1.5-2.9 in)
- Rear Height Adjustment: 40-75 mm (1.5-2.9 in)
- Front Spring Rate: 830 lb/in
- Rear Spring Rate: Progressive-rate spring (KW jobber designation)
- Front Axle Weight Limit: 1101-1350 kg (KW jobber value)
- Rear Axle Weight Limit: -1300 kg (KW jobber value)
Enthusiast Setup Perspective
For an enthusiast build, the practical benefit is consistency. A controlled platform makes steering, braking and tire behavior easier to read, which matters as wheel width, tire grip and alignment become more aggressive. After installation, establish ride height and alignment first, then make damper changes in small increments and record them so the effect of each adjustment remains clear.
Important KW Fitment Notes
- KW Note 1: Height adjustable on the front and rear axles (threaded strut housings)
- KW Note 9: The automatic level control must be disabled
- KW Note 10: For V2, V3 & Street Comfort coilovers, front shock absorbers need to be removed from the car for adjustment of stiffness
- KW Note 16: Additional assembly parts are required from the automobile manufacturer for vehicles with self levelling control. (Audi part-no.: damper bearing 8E0 512 121 E, spring base 8E0 512 149 H, bump stop eB0 512 131Q)
Fitment note: Specifications above are tied to the exact KW part number shown and the application data in the supplied KW jobber sheet. Confirm the vehicle's drivetrain, factory electronic suspension, axle weight and any listed hardware requirements before ordering.