I have an Integra LS, which doesnt come with a front strut bar. Let's focus on the front strut bar for now. How will installing one affect handling? How is one front strut bar different than the other? Say I get a stock GSR front strutbar, how much different is it than the one found on the ITR? Basically, why are some strut bars priced as low as $20 while others can reach prices of $300? Of course, quality of materials come into mind, but lets say both were quality built, both from reputable tuners: how is one better than the other and how can it justify the price of the more expensive one? What should I be looking for?

Also, how do those other bars work (ie strut, sway, tie bars) and how do they affect handling?

 

Strut bars do help, it makes the car stiffer in the corners. Note: At high speeds, the strut bar will help......so if you are on the track or high speed auto x courses, strut bars will help (front, rear, tie bars). The biggest difference comes from a Sway bar, in a front wheel drive car you want a large rear sway bar, this will help with your car pushing in Auto Xing situations. I would up grade your sway bar to a larger bar, You can get an ITR sway bar or go even bigger. Strut bars range in price depending on Name, Style, Quality, ex. The front strut bar and lower tie bar will make the most difference when looking at strut bars.

 

Go to http://www.howstuffworks.com/ and search for "sway bars"