Technical Using 4x4 panda suspension in a non-4x4 panda

[brunnopg]

Hello,

I just bought a 2006 fiat panda (which I believe is the dynamic, non-4x4 version).
I will use this car in the infamous Mongol Rally (i.e. driving from London to Mongolia).
From my research, the Panda 4x4 has a higher suspension if compared to the non-4x4 models. Since I am planning to go in some very bad roads with the car I thought would be nice to have the extra height in the car. So my question is the following: Would it be possible for me to put the Panda 4x4 suspension in my non-4x4 panda? Or those are different and incompatible?

Thanks a lot,
B

 

[koalar]

I believe the only difference is the shocks/strut and springs.

The front arms are definitely the same as the none 4x4


someone has had the wrong front springs on before and it ran okay just with a nose down stance. The front strut of the 4x4 is stronger than the standard.



the rear mount of the front arm deteriorate. Worth changing unless they look fairly new while its apart as only around £5. Not easy to get out unless you have access to a hydraulic press. I personally drill and cut them out and press them back in a big vise. No doubt a local garage would do them for the price of a beer

 

[babbo_umbro]

The rear suspension on the non-4x4 is totally different - fully-independent - and the current-model 4x4 is different from the previous one. I suspect that means the pick-up points are incompatible, but do you want the geometry of the 4x4 or just the higher ride height?

 

[DaveMcT]

I fitted a 2015 Fiat 500 rear axle to our 2008 Dynamic. The ride is much better, there is less body roll and it corners better. The wider track (25mm each side), anti roll bar and softer springs really do improve things.

I'm suggesting it because the cost was low and softer springs will put less stress on the car over rough ground. You would have to do some research on springs. The 500/Ka have 30% softer springs than the Panda 169 (which is good) but they are shorter so will not suit your needs on ride height. But I'm sure you could find longer springs with the same compression rate.

You could also consider air springs. They have less to go wrong than steel (which can shatter) and they can be pumped with a bike pump. Avoid a cross connection as that will increase body roll as air swaps from side to side.

 

[brunnopg]

basically, what i want is to make the car higher. i dont necessaraly need to use the 4x4 panda suspension... that was just an idea i had. Any other suggestions on how to make the car overall higher?

Sorry for the basic question. i don't understand much about cars, especially the panda which is a new one for me.

thanks