In a message dated 08/09/2000 4:50:44 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
datsunmike@nyc.rr.com writes:
> The problem of running such large wheels is that they weigh so much, add a
> lot of unsprung weight and don't necessarily make the car handle any better
> than 15" wheels with good tires. And they cost a fortune. 17" wheels and
> tires typically add more than 40lbs and more of unsprung weight depending
on
> the manufacturer and style of wheel. This is a constant topic in the Miata
> forum.
Wow, small world...!! I recently bought new wheels for my miata too. Went
with something larger, and lighter than stock, and noticed a definite
improvement in performance.
But for my roadster, I'm building it to mostly be a street cruiser, so I
figured the larger 17" wheels would be a nice fit. I'm really into the whole
modern restomodding scene with american hot rods (where they stuff up to 20"
billets under those 70 year old cars! yum yum), so I'd like to carry some of
those design aspects over to my little roadster.
I do plan on taking my car to the track though, so I will probably also end
up buying a set of dedicated 15" lightweight forged wheels with slicks
expressly for the track and strip. As far as the cost is concerned...I figure
it's all worth it. Some folks spend four digits making sure all their numbers
match, and use all NOS parts...I put it (actually, less $$) into something
which I think will make my car look better and stand out from the rest of the
crowd...and has prob never been done before.
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