I just switched from a Mercedes sedan to their little roadster (SLK 320) and it drives so differently. I understand why the steering is tighter on sports cars, but what does it mean when someone says a car has tight suspension (in practical terms, how it drives)? What does a car feel like that has tight suspension as opposed to one with loose?

 

A tighter suspension will have less body roll when turning, less of a feeling of 'diving under' when braking, and will 'lean back' less when accelerating.

This is advantageous because it typically means the car has a lower suspension, and therefore a lower center of gravity. This can be felt most commonly when turning, and high speed breaking.

A car with a loose suspension will be the exact opposite of a tight one. The advantage to this is that it allows more room within the wheel well for the tire to move and gives you a smoother ride.

If you need clarification on any of my rambling then let me know!