I have a 1989 780, and the shocks and struts both clearly need replacement. I have yet to see a really good guide to strut and shock selection, and I have a few questions:

1. Are american replacements from places like O'Reilly Auto reasonable? Can those be swapped without replacing the rear springs?

2. I would like to have a sporty feeling ride with more control, but also want a ride thats reasonably comfortable, as I often spend a large about of time in my car commuting. I have also had a few close calls with SUV's, etc. and definately want braking control, safety in my opinion takes priority over comfort.

3. I would like to avoid replacing springs, are there any replacements which avoid this nuisance but are not as expensive as the stock nivomats?

4. When replacing struts, some strut inserts are depicted as having one circular 1/2" or so mounting bracket on each end. Others are depicted as... well, looking like the strut thats in my car, with the spring support plate, and 2-bolt, rectangular mounting bracket on the lower end. Why is there a difference? Is it worth taking note of?