Wheel Size and opinions.
#1
Newbie
Thread Starter
Wheel Size and opinions.
Hi. I just recently got ahold of my beloved C63. I’m already looking to swap the wheels out for some bigger wheels to fill it in more and give it a different look. I’ve been considering 20’s but would like to know if it really sacrifices the ride completely.
#2
I stuck with the stock twin 5-spokes in 18" as the tires are cheaper. If you drive it they way it deserves to be driven, you'll go through rear tires quickly. You can get some pretty wide tires on the stock rims. I'd put your money towards other things that will likely need to be addressed like cam adjuster plates, camshafts, lifters, PCV value, etc.
#3
Newbie
Thread Starter
I stuck with the stock twin 5-spokes in 18" as the tires are cheaper. If you drive it they way it deserves to be driven, you'll go through rear tires quickly. You can get some pretty wide tires on the stock rims. I'd put your money towards other things that will likely need to be addressed like cam adjuster plates, camshafts, lifters, PCV value, etc.
#4
I live in the NYC Metro area and the roads can be pretty bad. My 507 has the OEM 19s for summer and I need to be very careful not to damage them. They are great on good roads but not fun on bad ones. I actually prefer the 18s I run in the winter as they are more forgiving and add just enough extra cushion on bumps and holes. I can't image running 20s around here.
#5
MBWorld Fanatic!
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 5,510
Received 432 Likes
on
355 Posts
2012 C63;1971 280SE 3.5(Sold);2023 EQS 450 SUV 4 Matic (Wife's)
The ride on 20's will suffer. How much over 19 " wheels I am not sure. Not only is the sidewall shorter and less able to absorb bumps, you will also have to run higher air pressure to protect the wheels from dented lips and cracking. It can be pretty brutal depending on the condition of the road surface. I really like my 20's so I am willing to pay the price. You will also lose some in absolute handling performance as well. Think a little of your driving style and expectations before diving right into purchasing 20's. I don't think they are for everyone.
The following users liked this post:
Bryanm.AMG (05-08-2022)
#6
Junior Member
I've got 20s on my C63 and I don't think the ride is all that bad. I'm also very used to driving performance cars and do not expect/want a plush ride. That said the 20s on my C63 ride better than my 19s on my old Porsche 996 turbo. I guess it's all perspective.
#7
Newbie
Thread Starter
I live in the NYC Metro area and the roads can be pretty bad. My 507 has the OEM 19s for summer and I need to be very careful not to damage them. They are great on good roads but not fun on bad ones. I actually prefer the 18s I run in the winter as they are more forgiving and add just enough extra cushion on bumps and holes. I can't image running 20s around here.
Trending Topics
#8
Newbie
Thread Starter
The ride on 20's will suffer. How much over 19 " wheels I am not sure. Not only is the sidewall shorter and less able to absorb bumps, you will also have to run higher air pressure to protect the wheels from dented lips and cracking. It can be pretty brutal depending on the condition of the road surface. I really like my 20's so I am willing to pay the price. You will also lose some in absolute handling performance as well. Think a little of your driving style and expectations before diving right into purchasing 20's. I don't think they are for everyone.
#9
Newbie
Thread Starter
Im expecting a harsh ride, but as well am a little used to the harshness. Had 18’s on an e46 I was restoring a little while back before handing it off, which in the Houston streets were not very forgiving. Expecting something similar.