What are the benefits of larger wheels/tires...

[kevinrea]

Hi guys,

I was wondering. my 1990 560SEC has 15" wheels/tires on it.

is there any benefits other than paying more for tires that one could receive from 16" or 17" wheels and tires ?

thanks,
Kevin

 

[jberks]

The overall diameter of the tyres mustn't change - so the taller the wheels, the better they look, but at the same time, the lower the profile of the tyre wall has to be. This sharpens up the handling as there is less sidewall to flex, but there is also less sidewall to soak up the bumps to the ride deteriorates accordingly.
Its a compromise.

 

[cjcor]

Oh yes, it looks better.

 

[tom7035]

I disagree with cjcor, but it's a matter of personal taste.
I feel MB have many, many years of experience in building good motor cars, who am I to tell them their design has been wrong all those years!

 

[mlc]

I think that both cjcor AND Tom are right.

Larger wheels look good but everything is a balance between performance, style, comfort, cost etc. Bigger wheels cost more and effect ride comfort but they improve road holding. So this best looking wheels isnt always the best wheel for the average owner, and MB like everyone else is trying to make the car that is the "best fit" for the average owner.

Mark.

 

[turnipsock]

Have you seen the state of the roads?

Big Wheels/Low Profile can be very uncomfortable these days.