Bilstein B8 Sprint Performance Front Shock Absorber/Damper Strut Insert Cartridge for BMW 5 Series E34 1987-1996 (Sedan/Wagon) | Lowered/Sport Suspension | Inverted Gas Monotube, Short Stroke | Part 34-030196

Bilstein 34-030196 B8 Front Damper Cartridge for BMW 5 Series E34

Transform the way your classic 5 Series drives with the Bilstein B8 front damper cartridge, part number 34-030196. Tailored for lowered ride height setups and factory sport chassis, this uprated insert delivers crisp steering feel, flatter cornering and superb stability on fast road. If you want a serious handling upgrade for your E34 without sacrificing everyday comfort, this is the one we recommend and use on our own builds. Customers love the control, composure and confidence it brings.

What makes it a standout upgrade

• Engineered to work perfectly with shorter springs and factory sport packages
• Shortened stroke keeps the spring correctly preloaded on lowered cars
• Inverted single-tube, gas-charged design for precise damping and heat management
• Sporty, taut feel with excellent ride quality for daily use
• Robust construction for long-term performance on UK roads
• Consistent response during enthusiastic driving, fast A-road work and motorway cruising

Real-world benefits you will feel

• Sharper turn-in and more direct feedback through the wheel
• Reduced body movement for cleaner, more predictable cornering
• Improved road holding on bumpy surfaces and better high-speed confidence
• Perfect partner for quality lowering springs or factory sport coils

Technical details

• Position: Front axle
• Type: Damper insert, cartridge style
• Construction: Inverted single-tube, gas pressure
• Mounting: Bottom plate, top pin
• Series: B8 Performance
• Part number: 34-030196

Vehicle compatibility

Direct fit for BMW 5 Series E34 models. Suitable for saloon and Touring variants within the years shown below.

• BMW 5 Series Saloon E34 02.87 to 12.95
  • 520i, 520i 24V, 525i, 525i 24V, 530i V8, 535i, 540i V8, 524td, 525tds
• BMW 5 Series Touring E34 07.91 to 07.96
  • 520i, 525td, 525tds

Fitment check

We verify compatibility before dispatch. Add your UK registration or the last 7 of your VIN at checkout so we can confirm the correct front insert for your E34.

Professional installation

Want it fitted right first time? Book expert installation with MJ Modifications in Warwickshire. Email info@mjmodifications.co.uk for a fitting quote. We recommend replacing dampers in axle pairs for best results.

Part identifiers

• Manufacturer reference: 34-030196
• EAN: 4025258607531
• UPC: 651860607535
• Brand: Bilstein

Why buy from us

We run Bilstein B8 on our own cars and supply them to many happy E34 owners. The feedback is consistent, tighter chassis control, smoother bump absorption and a genuine OEM-plus feel. Order with confidence for a proven fast-road suspension upgrade.

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