CA855R

Good question... I was thinking about using a stock "heavy duty" spring and new some new shocks for when I need to carry stuff. I'm not too concern about the comfort at this time due to it not being the most cushy car in the first place. I am sort of concerned about the ride height more. Not too sure what it would look like with a stock,"non R", rear ride height. I'd hate to have it look too raked, with its butt riding high and all. Either that or go back to Nivomats and bite the dust on cost. My problem I have is that I already installed new struts in the front and kept my stock R springs which is a bit lower to start. I don't want to do it again if I do decide to swap out the Nivos and change springs all around. So my ride height is the priority now as I mentioned. I'm hoping that the Nivos last a bit longer, I have about 98k on them now. We'll see...

I'm in the same situation as you. My wife drives that car and we pack all the kids and their stuff in our wagon. My R is a bit lower and I did keep the Nivomats which helps keeping the back level with all our stuff, especially when we go camping. I'm not sure how much the aftermarket springs will lower it ( depends on which ones you get, might need to ask around) but I bet it sure would be fun going around corners. My wife it already asking for flatter cornering and not complaining about the ride. The yellow Bils on my front did not make the ride any worst but thats my opinion, but I heard that it mostly the rear springs/shock combo that is responsible for the ride comfort. I'm assuming you live where it snows. Sorry, I can't answer your question here because I live in sunny CA. Hope someone will chime in here that has driven their lowered Volvo in the snow...

Believe me, they are shot. Not broken, but worn out. You'll be amazed once you change it. You have to order everything ala carte anyway, so get a set of springs and front stuts with new boots and you'll be set. That's it. Sway bars, strut tower brace, and end links would be gravy...

Now is the time to upgrade! My choice would be to get some lowering springs all around and to change the front strut at the same time. Seems that its still the original and probably worn out by now. It does make a noticable difference for the better, when this part is changed. I kept my Nivomats and changed the struts to yellow Bils. The ride height on my R is about right but now want to add some IPD sway bars for better handling. You might want to consider adding some bars also since you are going to redo the suspension anyway. Go for the whole package. It will put a smile on your face! :D