Karlos G

iTrader: (4)

Thinking about dropping from 17" wheels to 16" as I have the turning circle of a tube train ATM Also everyone says anything over 16" and they handle badly.
Does it really make that much difference to drive?
The overall diameter doesnt really drop that much (0.6" on 195/45/16 and 0.25" on 195/50/16), and I can run 195/40/17's so no width difference.

Who has done this, what difference did it make, what tyre size were you running?

Cheers!

cabrst

i run 205/45-16 and are handling fine done it since 1997

tryed 17" but made the car slower....

crazycage

if you want to do it for handling i wouldnt bother as its a convertable and will never be the best handling car ,if its for off line grip drop to a 225/50/15.

p.s i used to do wheel bearing all the time on 17s

obrutsr09

205/45/16 for me too,40mm lowered handles really good

jonny s2

iTrader: (12)

yeah for ride quality and handling 16s are much better bud

project rs

your standard turbo tyres 195/50/15 have a rolling radius of 5.94 feet, 195/45/16 is 6 feet, 205/45/16 is 6.09 and 205/40/17 is 6.14 so depending on your choice you can add some grip and also get a little more arch clearence

Rick

I liked my 215/40/16's, went well on those. Poor tyre choice on 16's if u want a semi slick. I'll be getting some 17's at some point, something light weight, then i'll have all to compare.

RAT8OY

Been out in mine tonight and I run 205 40 17 r888's. Even if I do say so myself It handles bloody amazing!

gus

iTrader: (1)

yeah but your hardly on standard suspension are you northern lad?

i was told with what suspension mods i have 17s would be mint

Karlos G

iTrader: (4)

hmmmm...... so many choices!
It's really about drivability, my turning circle is crap and so parallel parking for example is a pain, the steering is really heavy too, I get a little scrubbing on full lock and if I go over a really bad bump........
Would be nice not to scrub, have a better turning circle (sharper steering), and maybe a bit lighter too!

I'm thinking 195/40/16 to keep the profile nice and low.

crazycage

fit a quick rack and power steering from a corsa

Zetec_mk4_XR3i

mine is horrible to drive with 17s but looks so good! I tend to put the original wheels back on for running about on, drives like a new car in comparison!

moesin2005

you think like this when you start to get old lol i am thinking of even putting the standered springs on mine cos i cant be doin with the rough ride anymore

Karlos G

iTrader: (4)

Really?

Antti O

I am pretty sure that 80´s car handling is best with those original 195/50/15, you can get proper grip with good tyres & lsd. I have been thinking bigger alloys but original size is cheap and good to drive. One time i tested 1 rst with 17" alloys and i have to say it was horrible to drive.