I know this has probably been done to death before, but I need to know if it is worth changing to 17" wheels from 16", and if so which tyres are best.

I have a set of 17" ST2 wheels waiting for me at the dealer, but now I'm having second thoughts.

I'd be very interested to see the comments from anyone who has made the change as to the effect on turn-in, roll etc and how the feel of the car is altered.

Also, I am tempted with 215/40/17 SO2s but I do not want to lose any steering feel when compared to 205/45 PZeros. Has anyone tried both? Does the increased wet grip of the SO2 compensate for the lower weight per unit of area of the PZero?

My previous car was an Integrale, and I find my MY98 Impreza slightly detached in comparison. Which wheel/tyre combination would give the sharpest responses without modifying the suspension?

Sorry for the long-winded question.

Nigel A

 

If you do a search you will find that you are right about this topic being covered already.

Some people say that the ride on 17" wheels is too harsh on our poorly maintained UK roads whilst others rave about the improved handling.

If you run wider tyres i.e. 215 as opposed to 205 you are likely to get more tramlining.

Will the dealer let you try the 17" on your car or do they have a demo with 17"?

If you want to "sharpen the responses" of your car most people recommend adjusting the cars geometry to the Prodrive settings (see the SIDC FAQ) This may result in increased tyre wear though.