Bilstein B8 Rear Shock (Lowered) | VW Beetle/Ghia/Thing IRS 1968–1979 | Monotube (97-4007-0)

Bilstein B8 Rear Shock Absorber — Lowered Valving, Monotube, VW Beetle / Ghia / Thing IRS

Bilstein B8 Performance rear shock absorber tuned for lowered Beetle and Ghia chassis with IRS (Independent Rear Suspension). The B8 valving is matched to shorter-stroke applications — use this when you've dropped the rear of an IRS-equipped car and a stock-height shock would top or bottom out.

Vehicle Fitment

• VW Beetle with IRS: 1968–1979
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1968–1974
• VW Super Beetle: 1971–1979
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973–1974
• Lowered rear suspension only: Pair with a stock-height B6 (97-4005-0) for unlowered cars

Why Choose Bilstein B8?

The B8 is Bilstein's monotube design valved for shortened-stroke applications. On a lowered IRS Beetle, B8 prevents the bottoming and topping issues you'd otherwise get with a stock-length shock, while still delivering Bilstein's signature damping quality.

Key Features & Benefits

• Lowered-specific valving: Matched to shortened-stroke, dropped IRS chassis.
• Prevents bottoming and topping: Correct travel for a lowered car.
• Monotube design: Bilstein's signature damping quality.

Technical Specifications

• EMPI Part #: 97-4007-0
• Bilstein Reference: 24-000345
• Performance level: B8 — upgrade for lowered vehicles
• Collapsed length: 10.93" (277.5 mm)
• Extended length: 16.16" (410.5 mm)
• Sold individually: Qty 2 per axle

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is this only for lowered cars? Yes — the B8 valving is for lowered IRS rear suspension. For an unlowered car, use a stock-height B6 (97-4005-0).
• What does it fit? IRS-equipped VW Beetle 1968–1979, Super Beetle 1971–1979, Karmann Ghia 1968–1974, and Thing (Type 181) 1973–1974.
• Is it sold in pairs? No, it is sold individually. You need two (qty 2 per axle).

Explore Related Categories

VW Beetle · Suspension · All VW Aircooled