New wheels/tires have transformed the car

[Dunerunner]

Very nice, very nice indeed!!!

[SmartPassion]

Nice fit DavidV.

[lowndex]

Originally Posted by DavidV

We recently replaced the staggered factory 15" alloys with wider 15"x6" all around and are now running 195/50/15 summer performance tires.

This was initially done to evaluate the forthcoming WORKS suspension mods, and I have to say, the car has been transformed. A lot of the initial understeer is now gone and I can even feel a little squirm at the tail end of the car with a lift of the throttle - something that the old set-up would never allow, but that can help tons with adjusting the cornering attitude of the car via throttle input. The car is vastly more capable of carrying speed through corners, and braking feel is also improved. There is zero rubbing with this set up. There does not appear to be any penalty in ride quality, and as an added bonus, there is a whole universe of great tires available in the 195/50/15 size (which, now that they are all the same size, can also be rotated on the car for longer life).

Needless to say, we couldn't be happier with this mod.

** DavidV

The on-board computer takes into account the tires size ratios of front and rear (larger rear). When you made the front and rear tires the same diameter, how did you address the computer settings - affect on ABS and traction control?

[LinuxGuy]

The tires appear to only cost $54 at tirerack. So, what was the total cost of replacement. Are you going to sell the stock wheels and tires?

[DavidV]

Originally Posted by lowndex

The on-board computer takes into account the tires size ratios of front and rear (larger rear). When you made the front and rear tires the same diameter, how did you address the computer settings - affect on ABS and traction control?

The lead engineer at WORKS did the math for me in making this particular recommendation and based on his calculations, the overall diameter remains unchanged. This is a big plus in maintaining not only the ABS and traction control functionality, but also speedometer calibration.

** DavidV

[DavidV]

Originally Posted by LinuxGuy

The tires appear to only cost $54 at tirerack. So, what was the total cost of replacement. Are you going to sell the stock wheels and tires?

Stock wheels and tires are already sold. I got a special price on this set-up through WORKS, but I understand that the retail replacement cost is still under $900 shipped for the complete package (less tire pressure sensors).

** DavidV

[jwight]

Wheel info from Tire Rack:

15x6

$138 (each)

Offset: +25mm Bolt Pattern: 3-112
Rec. Tire Size: 175/55-15
**Lightweight: 14.0lbs.**
Note: Vehicle Has TPMS
Est. Availability: In Stock

[DavidV]

... next up.... WORKS prototype suspension mods to take full advantage of the added grip/balance. All of this will eventually be offered as an integrated performance package from WORKS, so stay tuned.

** DavidV

[smarticus]

Originally Posted by konati

I would also like to know where you purchased the wheels and was it over or under a grand

The rials are available from Tire Rack for $138 ea.

[smarticus]

Sorry about the repeat info.