Hi all. I own a 2008 E320 Bluetec with 16" wheels. Looking at upgrading to 17" or 18" wheels but can't
make up my mind between the two sizes. I'd like some input about ride quality, fuel economy etc. please. Thanks.

 

What wheel manufacturers are you looking at? I've been kicking around the idea of a larger wheel when replacing my tires also.

Thom

 

My local dealer orders from OE Wheels in Florida. I'm leaning towards the 17" (plus 1) upgrade since this is a diesel sedan and mileage is a concern of mine. My 16" wheels just look too small...

 

If you guys want to sell your 16" wheels, let me know. I too was thinking of going to 17's, the max that we can do up here in New England due to all the potholes. But then I hit a pothole and one of my snow tires exploded on the highway, not fun. So I'm probably going to stay with the 16's.

 

Just an FYI about OE Wheels.

http://www.my3cents.com/showReview.cgi?id=7819&s=4658

Thom

 

I'll keep you in mind if I decide to change them out.

Thom

 

I use 19's and I never thought I'd go to 19's but then I found these wheels. Ride quality is just OK, I mean tolerable but I don't particularly care. This is now my weekend car hence cannot provide you a reliable fuel economy number. I have Falkens and may soon change to Michelins; this may somewhat improve the ride quality.

 

I have an 06 CDI, currently running with 19" staggered config. The ride after changing from stock wheels feels a little bit harsher, but not too much. The handling is a pretty significant improvement. Steering feels more precise, and you will have the tires hugging the road feel, kind of like my BMW. However, when I had the stock wheel and tires, I averaged 31 mpg. now, it's about just over 27 mpg. Same driving habit, same routes. I've been in this setup for a couple of years now.

 

I would love to find some forged, non-staggered 17's for our CDI to retain ride quality & fuel economy, but it seems like nobody makes 17" forged wheels in a 5x112 bolt pattern anymore.

Would a 17x7.5 wheel with 46mm offset fit on a w211 (assuming 225mm width tire), or is the offset too high?

 

I went with the 17" setup. OEM Chromed wheels from early 2000's SEL series. Running the new Primacy MXM4's. Real nice ride and no loss of mileage...

 

Sounds nice, any pictures to share by chance?

Cheers,

 

I've swapped to 18", actually HRE forged 18". Perfect ride, abit firmer, and better control. Only down side, more expensive tires!

 

Pics would be great to accompany the bragging rights...

 

i went with 20s. here are some before and after pics



https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w...much-more.html

 

not bragging, just for your reference / enjoyment

 

I have found that the difference between 17" and 18" is negligible in terms of the ride quality. You will more than likely notice a difference when you move to 19" however. If you are open to aftermarket, we can help you find a set that fits your needs & requirements. There are many options out there that are similarly priced to what you are going to spend on OEM, but far better in the quality and aesthetics department. Good luck

 

I went with 18" OEM E55 wheels