The main reason (wasn't for looks) that bigger wheels were developed was to clear bigger brakes. That being said a smaller side wall (larger wheel diameter, but still using same overall tire diameter) will provide a "stiffer' sidewall and better turning characterisitics. This can be also accomplished w/ a stiffer sidewall tire- common in hi po tires. Bigger rims will give a harsher ride (smaller side wall) than a smaller rim w/ the same tire. Bigger rims will damage more easily than the same rim in a smaller diameter (smaller side wall again). Bigger rims weigh more (purely a function of size). Some use a certain size rim for availibility of a certain brand/width of tire they want to use.droogie said:What are the pluses and minuses of these different size rims? Will the car handle better but have a bumpier ride with larger rims?
Big Sky WRX said:
The main reason (wasn't for looks) that bigger wheels were developed was to clear bigger brakes. That being said a smaller side wall (larger wheel diameter, but still using same overall tire diameter) will provide a "stiffer' sidewall and better turning characterisitics. This can be also accomplished w/ a stiffer sidewall tire- common in hi po tires. Bigger rims will give a harsher ride (smaller side wall) than a smaller rim w/ the same tire. Bigger rims will damage more easily than the same rim in a smaller diameter (smaller side wall again). Bigger rims weigh more (purely a function of size). Some use a certain size rim for availibility of a certain brand/width of tire they want to use.
I prefer smaller rims (16") simply for weight savings (Volk TE 37's) and use a hi po tire (Toyo T1S) to get the performance I need. They suit my needs, but may not suit someone elses.
Big Sky