Re: 17 or 18-in wheels vs. stock (archive)

I put 16x8 wheels and Bridgestone SO2-PP tires on my 91 735. Amazing improvement over the previous contis, transformed the cornering, and the performance in the rain in unbelievable. I just drove from Detroit to Wisconsin through big thunderstorms, and the car never became unsettled, even at 85-90 through standing water. The noise and ride quality is about as good as with the 15s, except when cornering, when all of the annoying squealing is gone!!!

All things equal, the bigger you go, the harsher the ride will be. You'll also spend more money, and not necessarily get more performance, as the flexing of the sidewalls can help with grip on bumpy roads. Also, the bigger you go, the more likely it is you'll bend the rims on potholes, etc. I think anything over 17 on these cars is kind of silly, and asking for trouble, but if you want that hot-rod honda look, go for it! Also, a max performance summer tire will be best in the rain, but will suck in the snow - I live in Michigan and have a second set of wheels with Blizzaks for all of my cars. Go to tirerack.com, and look at the customer comments which will give you a decent idea of what the various tires are like.

Mike
Ok, it's been exactly a week since I bought my 740 and I was thinking about maybe getting bigger wheels and tires. I have the stock wheels on right now and I was just wondering if anyone has 17 or 18s on and how much does the ride suffer? I just want something that looks different. Maybe 16s would work also. Any experience with 16s, 17s, or 18s anyone? Your input is very well appreciated.

James
93 740iL

P.S. I don't know if this matters but I live in Seattle so I need to think about wet weather road conditions. Thanks

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