Just wanted to know if I changed my 16" wheels to 17's or 18's, would I be unhappy with the S2000's handling that I luv most about the car?

Can the handling be equal to or better with larger wheels? And what other mods would be required?

Thanks.

 

Yes the handling will change.

Because of the lower sidewall tires, the turning response should be quicker/more accurate. You could also increase the rim width. That would allow for wider tires, which would give you more grip. You also get more bling-bling effect with larger wheels.

On the other hand, when you increase wheel size, you typically increase wheel weight. That will slow you suspension travel, add to braking distance and decrease your acceleration (even if you are careful and get a larger wheel with the same weight as the 16s, the weight is moved further from the center - not good). The ride of the car could also get harsher because of the reduced sidewall and increase in unsprung weight. Although you will have a better selection of tires, any tire that is available in 16" sizes will be more expensive in the 17, 18, or 19" sizes.

 

16 to 17 should keep you happy with the handling that you "luv" about the car.

Don't know how you drive but you can do 18's too if you prefer.

The thing to consider is over-under steer when you start changing the dimensions of the contact patch.

18's will give you a larger diameter wheel.....enough that you will feel it under acceleration making it feel not as fast due to the gearing/wheel rotation ratio and most likely the weight of the 18's creating more rotational mass.

16's = ok your ready for a change
17's = ok it's the OEM MY04 setup and keeps your handling
18's = ok but not the usual setup for track events (although you can do it).
More show than go.

It's preference..

 

actually a number of the hard core track guys go for 18s because you can get better slicks for 18s than you can get for 17s. It's all a trade off. If you add a heavy wheel it's going to accelerate slower whether it's a 16,17 or 18.

 

Thanks for the input. I will be looking at 17's then.

 

Probably the most overated 'advantage' out there. Did you look at a F1 car lately?

Larger diameter wheels are required in production car racing (when allowed) because you can get bigger brakes in them....


Guy