The Hs got it first. Happened over a few years either front axle could be had same year for a couple years. I never was a big fan. Consider this. A straight axle sits at ride height at about 65 psi. The ifs need 90 before it even begins to come up. What one would be softer??? In defense of IFS the oversize air bag ping tanks probably dampen the higher pressures more than adequately. So why not add them to the straight axles bet I'd be noticable.
As is Difference in ride is undetected by most accept on rough road and i think the straight axles r quieter on rough road. Less parts less money weight is probably close.
Hey Mike and another tidbit. In the entire rest of the universe u have king pins on straight axles and a arms and ball joints on IFS front ends.
Pier in all his wisdom has figured out how to have both at the same time. Prevo IFS also sports king pins along with its a arms. Why would u do that? LOL Im unaware of anything else like it.
Up to 84 the straight axle had 4 airbags those rode even softer but those axles sit under 96in wide chassis only.