Just got a full set of Bilsteins for my '84 245 from www.shox.com. Paid $348 for the full set with shipping. A LOT better than IPD.

I'm pretty sure that IPD has the WORST price on Bilstein shocks. They should just stop selling them. In addition to shox.com, there's also a couple of other sources that have good prices.

http://www.turnermotorsport.com/catalog/bilstein/volvo.htm

http://www.eshocks.com

Does ipd have their Bilsteins custom-valved to their specs? This could explain the increased cost. As I'm in the market for a set, I'd like to know if anyone can identify the differences in how the ipd Bilsteins ride and handle vs. the Heavy Duty ('HD') versions places like turner motorsport and shox sell?...

I had (still have) HD Bilstein on my 528i and they handle just great.

Bilstein also makes a Sport model which is much harder. If you dont mind the harsh ride and will compromise for a "sportier" driving style, see if they have a listing for Volvo. Otherwise the HD setting will be quite adequate for street performance.

I can't say for sure, but I doubt it. For one, they would surely mention if they had unique shocks that aren't sold elsewhere, right?. Also, a set of 4 Boge Turbo Gas shocks for my car would cost $189 plus shipping from shox.com. IPD sells them for $216 per set of 4 plus shipping. Their prices are just higher, which is the case on a lot of items that they sell, however, they do have a lot of great products at reasonable prices. Even if the Bilsteins from IPD were better, I'd still buy the cheaper ones and use the money I saved (over $175) to buy a strut tower brace.