Wheelsize for 325ci (E46)

Thread view:

Enable EMail Alerts

Start New Thread

Thread rating:

stuart - 09 May 2005 12:07 GMT

What would be the best wheel size for a 325ci(E46)?

The standard size is 205/55/16 but one of the options
is 225/45/17. Is there any great difference to be
expected in the handling or in the comfort?

I recently test drove a 320ci with sport-suspension
and 225/45/17 front 245/40/17 back. This combination
was much too hard for long distance driving although
it went well round corners.

Stuart

Reply to this Message

Jeff Strickland - 09 May 2005 17:38 GMT

I'm using 225/45x17s on all four corners and this seems to be working out
well for me. They replace the 225/55x15s that came stock on my car -- I have
the 325i, E36.

> *** post for FREE via your newsreader at post.newsfeed.com ***
>
[quoted text clipped - 14 lines]
> http://www.newsfeed.com - The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World!
> -----== 100,000 Groups! - 19 Servers! - Unlimited Download! =-----

Reply to this Message

Jim - 09 May 2005 21:48 GMT

> *** post for FREE via your newsreader at post.newsfeed.com ***
>
[quoted text clipped - 8 lines]
> was much too hard for long distance driving although
> it went well round corners.

Haven't you answered your own question?
Jim

> Stuart
>
> -----= Posted via Newsfeed.Com, Uncensored Usenet News =-----
> http://www.newsfeed.com - The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World!
> -----== 100,000 Groups! - 19 Servers! - Unlimited Download! =-----

Reply to this Message

Tom Korth - 09 May 2005 23:47 GMT

> *** post for FREE via your newsreader at post.newsfeed.com ***
>
[quoted text clipped - 8 lines]
> was much too hard for long distance driving although
> it went well round corners.

In addition to wheel size, tire type is an important consideration. The
"all seasons" which probably came standard in the 205/55/16 size will give a
softer ride then the performance (V or higher rated) rubber included with
the sport package. Naturally, the softer the ride, the poorer the
handling - so you'll have to decide on the tradeoff.

Tom

Reply to this Message

Pete - 10 May 2005 10:08 GMT

> What would be the best wheel size for a 325ci(E46)?

Define "best." Best for what? Leasurely cruise down they hwy, track,
zooming through the twisties?

> The standard size is 205/55/16 but one of the options
> is 225/45/17. Is there any great difference to be
> expected in the handling or in the comfort?

Yes. Better handling and worse comfort. A lot depends on a specific tire
model as well, as other poster mentioned.

> I recently test drove a 320ci with sport-suspension
> and 225/45/17 front 245/40/17 back. This combination
> was much too hard for long distance driving although
> it went well round corners.

Aha. So, how do you feel about that? :)

Cheers,

Pete

Reply to this Message