Are you sure that picture was not taken in Phoenix, AZ

Haha. As socialism grows, roads get worse.

This one was taken in montreal.

I think I would route my trip around the worst parts whenever possible.

https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo...pt=7584&jsn=26

Here is the original FE1 suspension from rockauto. Do I have to replace the coil (and use a coil compressor), the top mount, boot, and bearings?

Check the coil springs, any breaks or cracks in the lower part of the coils? The top bearing plate gets worn so yes replace it, the coil spring top plate also rusts, so replace them . You should be able to either rent coil spring compressor, I bought a set, $35.00 at HF

OP kinda lost me blaming potholes on political ideology. All the comments here are accurate and insightful, and yet based upon the conversation so far, I think his best bet is to find a reputable chassis shop and explain what he wants. Maybe they can figure out what’s under the 2.2 and duplicate it.

That theory is not possible as the FE1 parts are all mush mashed in with FE3 parts in the after market. Which to most is more desirable

What about the compressed lenght? Information provided by rockauto says that the Monroe has 11.02 inches, KYB 10.55 and the ACDelco has 13.5 inches when compressed. Would that account for the taller stance of the vehicule? On the picture of Oldblue both HHR have very low stance with the KYB struts.

Information about compressed lenght are found here:
ACDelco professional https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo...&jsn=23&jsn=23
Monroe https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo...&jsn=17&jsn=17
KYB https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo...pt=7584&jsn=19

The pictures of Oldblue, it’s sitting on Canuck Motorsport lowering springs, the KYB’s control the bounce , not the ride height

Shock absorbers HAVE NO EFFECT on ride height. However they need a longer travel if you increase the height WITH SPRINGS. Longer springs will increase bounce and sway.

Stop worrying about any difference between FE1 and FE3. If there is any difference it is in using old fashioned "Standard" shocks vs. "Premium" shocks. I don't think they make the different grades in gas shocks anymore.

You should be able to borrow or "buy and return" spring compressor at any auto parts store. Harbor freight has them for $32.99.
https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.che...c06c8cd3ff.jpg


Bottom line is you are not going to get "the exact same" ride if you do anything to it. Raising it will make for sloppy handling and a tendency to roll over. If you want a high soft ride get a Escalade and let some air out of the tires..

Here are the front shock part numbers. All of the other suspension parts have the same part numbers (including rear shocks).

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.che...ffe67d0296.png