gman.too

Hi Luke,
I recently purchased a 2001 MBZ S430. When my tires wear to replacement, I may replace the standard 7.5j x 16” wheels. I do not want to replace with staggered wheels (additional expense) like the factory sports package. Vehicle does not have the AMG body kit.
Looking for your expertise and recommendations. I like to replace all 4 with wheels the same size so I can rotate.
1) Do you recommend 17” or 18”? The benefits of larger wheels? Improve handling? Would the ride with air suspension become harsher?
2) Should the wheels be 8” or 8.5” wide? The benefit and fit?
3) Bolt pattern 5-112 with what acceptable range of offset for the wheels?
4) Vehicle is driven in California. Looking for decent performance (not Ultra High Performance) tires, all season. Wife's vehicle, she drives very conservative and I drive moderately aggressive on freeways, but slowing down. The benefits of tire sizes and are there a large price difference? The staggered tire prices makes my eyes big. LOL.

Thanks for your help,

Luke@tirerack

1.) 18's look much better and most people who move to 17's have mentioned regretting not getting 18's when upgrading

2.) 8.0 or 8.5 no real preference both will work fine

3.) 5-112 is correct offset range high 30's to mid 40's

4.) 245/45-18 is the tire size and look at the Advan S4 .... only $189 or the pilot Sport A/S at $255.00

sorry for the delay

I have looked at this question everyday since you posted it and forces have conspired against me not allowing an earlier answer ....

gman.too

Thanks Luke!
I am leaning to the 18" x 8.5
I like the AMGs. Any other brand recommendations for quality?
In the moderate price range.

Should I stay away from the replicas wheels?

Any feedback from our forum members? Recommendation or wheels to stay away.

Great forum, thanks.