wheel weight vs. wheel size.

[StephenB]

The spec line does have 16s for Ben's car... my bad: )

Can you put smaller wheels on the car than what the spec line says? For example could an rx8 run 17s

[erlrich]

Can you put smaller wheels on the car than what the spec line says? For example could an rx8 run 17s

"Cars originally equipped with twelve (12) inch wheels may fit thirteen (13) inch wheels. Cars originally equipped with metric 365 wheels may fit fourteen (14) inch wheels, and cars originally equipped with metric 390 wheels may fit fifteen (15) inch wheels. The above-mentioned cars as well as those cars originally equipped with thirteen (13) inch or fourteen (14) inch wheels may fit up to a fifteen (15) inch wheel. Cars may not fit wheel diameters smaller than those listed on their spec line. All other cars shall retain the wheel diameter fitted as original equipment for their make, model, and type. Knockoff/quickchange type wheels are prohibited. Wheels must be made of metal. Cars classified in ITR may utilize any wheel diameter up to 17” or retain their stock diameter wheels if larger."

Kind of contradictory, but I read that as saying ITR cars can use any diameter wheel up to 17", or their stock wheels if larger.

[StephenB]

That is also the way I read it but before I start looking and certainly before I spend a significant amount of money I want to be sure... I know for sure the auto rx8 came with 17" and I think all the grand am cars run 17"

[madrabbit15]

I am not sure but I think I remember Steve Eckerich telling me a couple weeks back that 16s wont fit on an rx8. Hes building one now for ITR.

[wally2]

See page 34 of May 2010 Car and Driver. They test different size wheel/tire combos on a VW Golf (15x6 up to 19x8.5). Seems to have effects on braking, acceleration, skidpad and even mpg.