I know that the front struts are different between the 79-80 and the 81-85 cars. Does anyone know if they can be easily changed from the 79's to the 81 and newer? If so, which parts need to go with the exchange? Could not find in the search.

 

If you choose to do this swap, you'll need to get the upper strut mounting blocks from the 79/80 to go with the upright and strut cartridges. This is the only change, and what Mazda did was switch from a fixed upper rod mount to a rotating, bearing upper rod mount (81-onward). The cartridges inside are obviously different, as well, to accommodate this change.

Technically speaking, the move to a bearing at the top of the strut was to help with steering response and feel, since a fixed rod required the entire strut to be moved against the internal friction of the piston and valving aparatus in the strut cartridge, leading to heavy steering feel and vague response. The later model cars reduced this by allowing the strut rod to rotate with the strut, turning smoothly on the bearing at the top of the mount.

I doubt that there would be much difference in handling feel other than what I stated above - other than finding the right parts to match what you installed, which is a retrograde fitment (79/80 to a 81+ car). Most people go the other way. HTH,

 

I hope I explained this correctly. I have a 79, and need to update to the newer style if I want adjustable struts.

 

www.classicgarage.com <--- sells koni adjustable shocks for your year.

they are damper adjustable.(stiffness) if you want height adjustable you can get a coilover kit. and you will have to cut and weld the spring perch.