This was my experience with my ‘40 when I replace the old shocks on the front the ride height went up about 10mm
FWIW do change the springs while you are at it, I didn’t bother when I replaced the shocks on my now totalled 3.2 Sport and instantly regretted it when it still bottomed with the new shocks fitted.
Thank you for the hint. Was that due to aged springs? Or did you replace with different springs?
Just they were 20 years old and well worn like me!
From the picture I thought you were a little older than 20 
By the way, the Nivomat springs are too soft, so I need new springs anyway. I guess the Nivomat dampers are designed to always be at least a little pressurised and therefore require softer springs to work. I thought about upgrading to XJR springs, but given the German road conditions in recent years, I will stick with the standard springs for now and replace just the rears.
Humm the picture in the attic may need a bit of a clean and retouching!