Non Standard Wheels?

[chillyphil]

Hi,

Don't know much about alloys, and never thought about changing them before, however, just bought a 2006 connie and awaiting the arrival of a navall unit with tyre pressure display, so I will need to get sensors fitted to the wheels, therefore wondering if I should change the wheels at the same time.

Questions:

Should I fit 16", 17" or 18" whilst I am at it?

What are the benefits/drawbacks of fitting larger 17" or 18" wheels to replace the standard 16" already fitted. I'm thinking about comfort, noise, performance, fuel consumption?

What are the best wheel/tyre combinations?

Phil

[Polly]

I would say most people fit larger wheels for appearance, but the real advantage is steering response and road holding due to the lower profile tyres. Tyre profile going down as wheel size goes up in order to maintain the same overall diameter.
The disadvantage is reduced ride quality, although this can be improved to a degree by careful tyre choice. This leads to the second disadvantage, quality tyres are more expensive, and don't last as long.

[chillyphil]

Any other thoughts on this?

If I go for 18" which type and colour wheels look best on a silver saloon?

Phil

[Abbadon]

I think only you can answer that question, however I find I almost never like aftermarket wheels.... It's no mistake teams of stylists spend a long time getting a few designs just right for a particular marque!

[chillyphil]

I think I agree, but everyone seems to go on about new and bigger alloys, I feel I am letting the side down if I don't do something about it

[paul d]

It's also down to the ride quality you want. I fitted some 18" Hairpins to my 75 last year with decent tyres & took them off after less than 5 miles as I found the ride was far to hard for me.

I prefer the softer ride of the 75 & that's the thing it's down to personal preference.

Do what suits you & floats your boat After all it's YOUR car.

Regards

Paul