Alloy Upgrade

[albiesdriver]

Hi guys first post on here I wish to upgrade from standard 16 inch alloys on my 56 plate 220d I have seen plenty of posts saying how great 18 inch wheels look but I am concerned about the ride handling and fuel consumption and I can not find any posts detailing the effects the larger rims would have. Loads of you out there must have upgraded can you tell what effect it has had on the car. I also do not want to lower the car those days are well behind me would I be better just going for a set if 17 inch wheels.

[Exdee]

I would recommend 17 if you are coming from 16's. 18's would be too big a change and you will definitely not like the harsh ride. Tyres are a major factor so if you want comfort you need to get something made from a soft compound.

[steve2006]

Apart from the points mentioned you also have to consider the offset of the wheels,bore and the rolling radius which can affect the accuracy of your speedometer.

If you input the details of your present wheel/tyre combo and those of the proposed set in the link below you can see what difference they will make.

http://www.willtheyfit.com/

[albiesdriver]

Thanks guys will be going for the 17 option I have a great alloy centre near me so they will insure the correct fitting.

[Frankiethebear]

exdee, your info is brilliant, thanks. I'm also in the market for new wheels too, but i really want to go for 182 in a gunmetal colour, the car is black so this combination would look nice. i'm not too concerned about the difference in ride quality. Do you have a recommendation, or a manufacturer that is preferred? Also, in your opinion, is there any point in buying new alloys with tyres already fitted or would you go for rims then tyres separately. I want to do this right.

ta

Frankie

[koppatroppa2002]

exdee, your info is brilliant, thanks. I'm also in the market for new wheels too, but i really want to go for 182 in a gunmetal colour, the car is black so this combination would look nice. i'm not too concerned about the difference in ride quality. Do you have a recommendation, or a manufacturer that is preferred? Also, in your opinion, is there any point in buying new alloys with tyres already fitted or would you go for rims then tyres separately. I want to do this right.

ta

Frankie

Just got myself two tyres front Pirreli 225*45 17's and the road noise OMG Today wrnt bacl and replace them!! So pay atention at tyres spec/ I'm new myself too with this car; loads to learn !

[is200 Newbie]

Have just replaced both rears and fronts with Green Stars and there's absolutely no noticeable difference in the noise from the Dunlops that were on it before

[Snif75]

Alright.. New to this myself. Got an 08 250 with the standard issue wheels that I would like to up to nice 18s without the rude boy effect.. Fancy some many spokes .. Any ideas for make? Stockist in north west? Ps just loving my 1st Lexi! Beats the sh t out of the spanker c class merc i left behind.. Now have car with Personality!