getting rims!

[socalguy]

i have stoke 16" inch rims, and i really dont know too
much about rims... But i am looking at getting the hamann hm3 17"
Or should i get 18" rims?? So basically whats the benefits of goign bigger?

And are there any other rims that i should consider??

[brien4787]

i think 17s have a good look, and should for sure fit. 18s may sometimes have troubles fitting, plus they are heavier

[jllphan]

An 18" will give you a bigger contact patch (more lateral grip), but depending on how spirited you drive the car, you may need much firmer springs. I went with 17"s and shorter springs based on cost, tire replacement cost, and ease of ownership.

I like the hm3, you might also look at the Breyton Imagine...

[CiscoKid]

17s are nice, but if you ahve the money, go for the 18s.... def. not 19s

[socalguy]

ok cool, yes i have the extra money for the 18's. a friend also mentioned the
same thing about tire replacement costs and etc...cheaper for 17's.

so i am guessing that the 17 will be a good all around rim.. oh yea i am also adding
lowering springs and shocks, with sway bars, and some other components(dont remember what they all are) to improve handling.

[///M Power]

i dont think those are HM3's? I think they are PG series (1/2/3) but they look to be PG2

here are HM2

[///M Power]

the HM2's are my fav but the pg2's are nice too

[socalguy]

yes i am starting to like the hm2 look more too.. but they are an inch
different so is there a big difference about 17 and 18 inch rims??

[socalguy]

jllphan ,

So what your saying if i love to drive, then get the 17s, right. And 17s are big enough for break kits right? and i do love to drive.. i want more performance rather than show!!!

[Kevin325i]

I'd say go with 17 inch.

Most big break kits require 17 inch or larger wheels, so you'd be good for most of the ones out for the e36.

Kevin

[Trevman328is]

I have 19"s on my 1998 328is and I have no problems with rubbing or anything of that nature. Yes I know it effects handling but the look is unbeatable especially on the 328is -Trevdog

[El Presidente]

Most 17s have the same width as 18s, so really the advantages of 18s are less sidewall flex and better look. 17s will yeild the same traction though, and tires are cheaper for them. the ride is also not as harsh as it is with 18s.

[Cary328is]

I've had my 17"s for over 2 years and will be upgrading to 18"s. It just depends on what kind of driver you are and where you park it If you aren't too much into looks and like the "lowered" sport feeling, 17"s should be fine. Also, repeating what everyone has said...17" tires are significantly cheaper than 18"s. Good luck with your search. Enjoy your new wheels.

[jllphan]

Originally posted by socalguy@Jun 1 2004, 11:06 PM
jllphan ,

So what your saying if i love to drive, then get the 17s, right. And 17s are big enough for break kits right? and i do love to drive.. i want more performance rather than show!!!

Precisely. Eighteens look great parked, but the seventeen is a good driving size. As I have said before, I set my car up to be a GT car of sorts. This necesitates ride quality and handling to go hand in hand. Kinda like the Enzo

If you are looking for the same, go with 17's. If you want a track car (bigger contact patch) and have a lot of money (new tires, Z-rated shoes dont last forever), and dont care about ride quality buy the 18's.

[socalguy]

ok thanks a lot for your input, i really appreciated...
looks like i will stick with getting the hamann hm3 17x8.5

anyone know where you can get a good deal on them?