i just got a W202 (95 C-280) to replace my 300e which was totaled by a friendly left-turning motorist.

i want to lower the car SLIGHTLY and go with the 16" SPORT wheel made for W202.

i just got a good deal on a set of eibach pro springs from bekkers. ($175 for new with damaged box) i want to lower enough to see the difference, but am not after a "slammed" look.

which SHOCKS would you recommend to go with the EB springs?
i guess the usual suspects are: bilsteins, koni, KYB, etc.
i AM leaning toward an "adjustable" shock to be able to tune the ride for performance vs. ride quality.

my criteria is approx: 50% ride quality, 25% improved performance, and 25% appearance.

also, when changing do i need to have several different PADS available to set the overall height? i am going to get a local shop (prob this sites sponsor, Donnie at MB Autotwerks) to do the swap. i have not gotten a sense of if the orig pads USUALLY work, or if they typically need to be changed to get the correct overall ride height.

i have read/followed MANY S&S threads, but...
any and all input or advice from the MS family will be GREATLY APPRECIATED!!!

thanks, and hope you see the new "lowered" me soon.

- benton in atlanta