The problem of running such large wheels is that they weigh so much, add a
lot of unsprung weight and don't necessarily make the car handle any better
than 15" wheels with good tires. And they cost a fortune. 17" wheels and
tires typically add more than 40lbs and more of unsprung weight depending on
the manufacturer and style of wheel. This is a constant topic in the Miata
forum.
Here in NY too many guys running 16" & 17" wheels with super low profiles
are finding their rims are bending under the stress of driving over less
than perfect roads. BMW recalled most early M3s for wheel problems as well
as Chrysler.
IMHO they kill the looks of a 30 YO graceful sports car and are more suited
to Hondas/Acuras which ride on the ground and look like an amusement ride
going down the street.
FWIW,
66 Mike
----- Original Message -----
From: <DemonTSi@aol.com>
To: <jon_wissler@pngc.com>; <datsun-roadsters@autox.team.net>
Sent: Wednesday, August 09, 2000 4:01 PM
Subject: Re: Tires and Wheels
> In a message dated 08/09/2000 9:28:03 AM Pacific Daylight Time,
> jon_wissler@pngc.com writes:
>
> > Question for all of you experimenters out there. Assuming that
my
> > suspension is relatively stock in regards to height, and my fenders are
> > also stock, what is the optimum tire/wheel size combination you would
> > suggest. Mike Poorboy suggested 205/50/15 on 15x6 rims with a 15mm
> > offset. I understand that the stock rims, which I have (I think) are
> > 14x5.5. What would be the maximum tire size I could fit on those
puppies?
>
> You'd be hard pressed to fit 195-60-14 tires on the stock wheels, but
that's
> what I had for a while, and I never had any problems with rubbing or the
> tires folding over or anything. As for max rubber... I just found out a
> friend of mine is running 16x7 panasports with 215/40-16s!!!! Yes, I will
> have to take and post some pics soon!! I'm going to be running 17x7s with
> 205/40-17s, and there's PLENTY of room...
>
> \/ /\ /\/
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