16" vs 17" wheels.....pros/cons ?

[Davy F]

I've just fitted a set of winter tyres to the 15" alloys that came on my Polo 1.4, but came the spring, I think I'll just buy a new set of wheels. I had fitted a lovely set of Wolfrace 16" wheels to my Mazda 2 literally weeks before I changed it, so I'm thinking of buying more or less the same. But....what are the collectives opinions on the size to go for ? I'm leaning towards 16's so as not to make the ride overly firm, but know that 17's are the more popular size.

Over to you.........

[Daz Auto]

Sorry I can't make any recommendations, but I am aware of some of the pros and cons.

Up sizing your wheels... Pros: car looks better and handles better. Cons: noise increased, comfort reduced, more expensive tyres and insurance.

My car comes as standard with 17" alloys. I currently have 16" alloys with winter tyres fitted to my Golf. The car is noticeably quieter and more comfortable. Though winter tyres do use a softer compound than summer tyres. Each tyre size up is more expensive and you have to inform your insurance company. Though as I was down sizing my insurance company had no issues.

I have read that it is recommended that you only go 1 size up/down from the standard tyres. I think this is mainly due to speedometer error, but there are other factors to consider. Try a google search for 'wheel size calculator' or 'fitting bigger wheels to a car'.

[Tooks]

There will be no speedometer error if you up or down size using the correct size tyres.

Rolling radius/circumference needs to be kept the same to avoid error, so basically the bigger the wheel, the smaller the height of the tyre sidewall compared to your original smaller wheel/tyre combo.

Regarding comfort, the rule of thumb is the less rubber sidewall you've got on a car, the harsher the ride will be. But on a softer suspension setup like a stock Polo 1.4, you probably won't notice a big difference between 16 & 17 inch wheels. Both will be noticeably harsher than your 15 inch wheels though.

Personally, I think 17 inch wheels are the optimum looks wise on a 6r/6c polo, but 16 inch look ok too and probably a good compromise in terms of comfort. Good selection of inexpensive tyres available too.

[Davy F]

Well I happen to have called in to see a friend who always does my tyres on my cars and bike. I mentioned I was thinking of buying a new set of Wolfrace wheels and as luck has it, his company are the distributors for Wolfrace in N.I. So I've ordered a set of Wolfrace Lugano 16" wheels in shadow chrome and they'll be at his place about mid week. Quite some saving on them too compared to the likes of Wheelbase etc. so al in all, chuffed to bits.

[98octaneblood]

No pain, no gain.
The car looks better and performs way cleaner in 17'' shoes and firm suspension (standard Blue GT) but the comfort along bumpy roads is worst.