jpnwdc

Hi, looking to get a new GLC 300 this month. I live in in DC where they are either tearing up the streets all the time or potholes are a problem in the winter. I want a decent ride but also care about handling. The 18" are nice looking (for 18s) but I would think the 19"s would handle better. Anyone compared in a city setting where the roads are not pristine? Thanks in advance for the feedback.

kombifan

the 19s are fine. Ive had them as loaners and they drive really well.

The 19s look nicer too.

Sigp232

19 for me too👍 And get normal tires.

VancityGLC

19" for sure, For the car in that size 18" look too small and out of place, but yes make sure you get normal all-season tires with the rims.

kombifan

I too agree on getting non run flats. But.....

i had that loaner for about 2 weeks and the 19 inch Pirellis runflats actually were very comfortable.
I wouldn’t have even noticed.....but the car did have 200 miles.

I imagine non runflats would be even more comfortable

62bassman

The outside diameter of all three wheel/tire combinations is the same. It’s the height of the sidewall that gets smaller as the wheel size increases.
I’ve driven the 18s, 19s and the 20s each for several days around NYC and went with the 18s on my glc. The ride is a little softer , which is my preference considering the RFTs ride harder anyway and around here the road hazards are unavoidable . I’ve had cars with low profile tires and never again. Unless you purchase a wheel and tire protection package you’re possibly going to spend big for seasonal repair and replacement of wheels and tires. I didn’t notice a difference in handling between the sizes but I understand the appeal of larger wheels.

jpnwdc

Thanks! You like your GLC?

jimbobboy

As a fellow District resident (NW) who knows whereof you speak about the conditions of the roads in the Nation's Capital (to say nothing of the alley into which our garage feeds), when I ordered my '17 GLC I had ride comfort as a high priority. Accordingly, I went with 18" and Airmatic (not just because of the broken up alley, etc., but to deal with the rutted roads on Nantucket when my wife and I plus two cats go in the summer.) I haven't regretted either decision and find the GLC meets our needs all around. BTW I have run flat Continental tires with which I am also pleased. That said, I have limited experience with GLCs configured differently. I sure you will enjoy your car.

CaptainJack

Go with the 19 inch rim and change out the run flats as soon as you can afford it.
I just put Nitto NT421Q 255/50R19 on my 2017 and they are so much more comfortable.
There will be plenty of side wall on the 19inch to absorb the pot holes in DC.
The run flats, on the other hand, will feel every thing whither you get the 18 or the 19 rims.