Just about anything that claims to be better than stock, will be. It's all in what you want. Basic KYB's don't cost any more than stock parts, and they felt awsome to me- for about two years. Didn't last very long, you get what you pay for. So they were a good shock for the money, if short lived. My Bilstiens were @$600, but they are 100% better and guaranteed for life. So I think they are the best shock out there for the money, because they handle just how I want and will outlive my car, which I plan to have for a long time. What's your main purpose for the car? You need to have a plan and set goals before we can really point you anywhere specific. There is more to getting good performance and ride quality from your dampners than just picking a good shock, because they are a product not just of the shocks, but of the wheel rate- which is derived from the combination of your dampners and your springs. They should be bought as a package to work together, or at least purchased from someone who can get you dampners meant to work well with your stock springs, and the size of wheel/tire package you are/will be using. Which ones you need will be determined by what kind of job you want them to do- launch, corners, etc. and ultimately, what your price range is. S'all in the details
I agree with stangbear427, I have Blistens and I love them, if they would break tomorrow, I would order them again without a second thought. I think by far the are the best for the $$
Bang for the buck if you are on a budget, the kybs are the best for the price range if you are looking for something right now. If you had a bit more money I would suggest some Koni's or the Bilstiens.
Kevin