Are the Bilstein front struts worth $300 more in performance gains than KYB's for a weekend driver, not used for AX. What is the best replacement given the use of this car? Opinions please.

I have had both - If it's based on dollars I'd take Sachs/Boge over KYB; if dollars don't come into play I'd take (and currently use) Bilstein over both the others. Even for just bombing around on the weekends, the Bilsteins are worth it to me. And yes, you will notice a difference.

I have bought some bilsteins that the part number shows to be in both the 914 and 911. The only thing is the gas struts I am familiar with are under pressure when they or out of the car and these are not under pressure. They are firm to compress and pull out but that is all. Did I get screwed again by someone just getting rid of his junk?

KYB are VERY STIFF.