Replacement shocks/springs for 1.8t sport 2002

[rosco]

I am looking to change the shocks and springs on my 2002 1.8t Passat to try and tighten it up a bit. The car has done 96k and isn't anywhere near as tight as it was when I purchased it 5 years ago with 45k on.
Can anyone recommend some gas shocks that would be suitable. I don't mind a harsher ride than standard if it means it improves the overall handling. Also I would like to lower the whole car very slightly, by say 10mm? Again some recommendations for lowering springs would be great.
Upon lowering the car slightly, is there any other considerations to take into account? The car has the standard 16" wheels on, which have 205/55/16 tyres on.
Any info gratefully received!

[1.8Tpassatman]

All depends on what sort of budget you have,if its unlimited,go with a koni coilover set,if like me,you dont need track performance, go with a budget coilover package, i paid £225 for a jamex coilover kit, lifted it up on my forklift at work and after 2-3 hours was all done, it took me longer adjusting to get it at the height i wanted,than fitting the coilover itself. The car now handles 20x better,and it sits at a nice height,they may not last 10 years, but mine came with a 2 year's warranty, and tbh,il probly have something else in 2 years,but definatly a value for money alternative,i'd steer well clear of just lowering springs, for the extra few quid,get the full package.