I'd say it depends on how much you lower the car. I have a 1996 Mazda Astina (323F/Lantis). I fitted -40mm AVO springs about 2 years ago and it's been fine ever since with standard shocks. I take my car to open track day sessions once a month or so, and the handling is vastly improved, yet the ride comfort is still very acceptable. General opinion in my car club (www.club323f.com) is that if you go lower than 40mm, you need to change shocks ...