Daily Driver: 16" or 17"

[canadian_psyko]

Since the stock sized tire selection is abysmal, and overpriced, upgrading to larger wheels is now becoming a requirement.

I've been doing some research over the last couple weeks, and the price difference between 16" and 17" wheels and tires isn't very large (~$100).

16" have a slightly taller sidewall, but only one size that matches the stock diameter (225/50/16), the 245/45/16 is basically dead. It is slightly cheaper though.

17" have way better size selection, (245/40/17, 255/40/17, 275/40/17, etc...) but cost slightly more.


I'm trying to decide which makes more sense. Ignoring looks, specifics of what fits:

• Does the (slightly) taller sidewall provide better protection for potholes and such? I live on the edge of expanding suburbia hell, roads are always being dug up. I work in an industrial area, train tracks, trucks, big holes a couple times a year that aren't always dodge-able.
• Does the step to 17" reduce the ride quality enough to be a negative? I don't mind a bit of a harsh ride, but is there a noticeable difference?
• Is one good size enough to bet on 16" being available in the next few years?

[REN69]

Do 17s, I'm getting there slowly... probably next summer, for now I'm enjoying my 15s.

[rsdeo]

If you don't mind just 225/50-16 tyres and nothing wider go with 16x8 wheels. If you plan on keeping the car for a long time then go 17" wheels as there is and will be more tyre size selection for a longer period of time.

[Muchbzy]

For daily driving I would lean toward the 16's, I think the 225-50/16's will be around for a long time. The 50's are much better at soaking up bumps, ruts, and pot holes. I have hit some going pretty good and may have slightly bent a wheel but never bent a lip.

[Zerodrag]

Did they stop making 245/45/16s? If that's the case, I better stock up on an extra pair.

[canadian_psyko]

Tirerack lists only r-compounds in 245/45/16. I think I saw Nexen still makes them, but that's only one manufacturer.

[Zerodrag]

Ya, I'm running on Nexens currently. Hopefully, they won't stop offering them any time soon.

[CarFreek]

Yes, the taller sidewall helps with potholes/railroad tracks, etc. Yes, ride quality does suffer, especially if you stay with a smaller diameter tire-225/40-17, for example. Yes, more cars use/used the 225/50-16s... Your climate, and the fact you daily drive your car, makes the lack of "performance" rubber a non-issue, anyway. What wheels are you considering?

[BillyM]

16" all the way... Unless you need more grip than 225's can give you, it's the way to go.

--billyM

[canadian_psyko]

I'm leaning heavily toward XXR. 531, 522, or 513 specifically. The price is right, and I can get them for a very similar price locally (no border, no shipping charges) vs the best prices I've found online.