Why not use only a MOV as a snubber for relay control of AC motor?
Metal Oxide Varistors (MOVs) are cheap but will wear out and fail shorted. Properly rated capacitors as part ofa snubber will last indefinitely. Both will allow a significant voltage spike. See, for example, Electromagnetic Compatibility in Medical Equipment: A Guide for Designers ... By William D. Kimmel, Daryl D. Gerke



MOVs are more appropriate to deal with occasional spikes rather than continuous clamping applications, where they are appropriate at all.