What are the benefits of larger wheels/tires...

Aug 16, 2005 | 11:38 PM

kevinrea

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Joined: Jul 2005

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From: Lancaster, California - USA

2002 S500

What are the benefits of larger wheels/tires...

Hi guys,

I was wondering. my 1990 560SEC has 15" wheels/tires on it.

is there any benefits other than paying more for tires that one could receive from 16" or 17" wheels and tires ?

thanks,
Kevin

Aug 16, 2005 | 11:52 PM

CE750

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Joined: Jun 2005

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From: FL410

'05 E320 CDI, '08 BMW X5 4.8i, '11 Duramax 2500HD

Quote:

Originally Posted by kevinrea

Hi guys,

I was wondering. my 1990 560SEC has 15" wheels/tires on it.

is there any benefits other than paying more for tires that one could receive from 16" or 17" wheels and tires ?

thanks,
Kevin

generally better handling, but there is a diminishing return after 17" wheels... the rest are more for looks.

Sep 4, 2005 | 01:23 PM

Den.

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Joined: Apr 2005

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Currently on foot.

Agreed. When you start getting into 19-22" performance is actually degraded plus it looks retarded. (There's a W140 I've seen around the bottom of Etobicoke here with 20's or 22's and I laugh out loud everytime I see it!!)LOL.

A larger rim and smaller sidewall has less flex due to the smaller sidewall. But it will normally also make the car ride rougher. If you go plus 1 or 2 it would usually be a good compromise.

A wider tread will give you better roadholding. Though you supposedly could see less fuel mileage.

Just keep the wheel diameter the same as then you don't have to worry about speedo error!

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