Apexi WS coilovers here, I love them. Compared to stock ? No you can't compare them to stock.

I love my coilovers, of course the ride is stiffer but its supposed to be thats why I put them on haha. Stiffer suspension = less roll in corners. Im dropped with about 1 1/2 finger gap between fender, but I change the height all the time. I also have 18's with 40 series tires so I feel pretty much all cracks and bumps in the road.

I love the stiff suspension feel though. I ride in stock cars now and its just not as fun. You can do 80-100mph EASY in the new cars (eclipses/RSX/Teggys) on stock suspension and the ride is boring its so damn soft.

So I guess its just preference.

Good luck