I have been thinking about replacing my wheels with 17" Volks, but do not like the look of the small spokes.

If I go up to an 18" Volk, should I expect the handling to go down hill significantly? The 18s are only 0.5' wider in the front and the same width in the rear. I keep reading that S2000 cars are very sensitive to weight changes.

Thanks.

 

If you don't track or autocross, you won't notice jack squat. I've got 18" Work S2Rs and think the looks of 18's more than make up for the negligable loss in performance. Just my .02.

 

Your not driving hard enough.. there is a noticeable lost of acceleration braking etc with 18" wheels on. Work S2R wheels weigh in about 45 for the front and 50 in the rear with tires, I noticed a huge difference switching back to stock.

 

Rajun asian,
I just ordered the same wheels in the burning black (should be here in 6-8weeks).

What size tires did you go with? What susp. do you have?...alignment specs? (preferably camber settings)

I'd like to fit 235/265 but if not 225/255.

Although I haven't changed the wheels on this car yet, I'd have to agree with Speedxracer about noticing the differences. I have wheels on my other cars (and other cars before those) and it is noticeable. I do agree that if it is just for the street its not a HUGE difference. If your concerned about track times I would believe it to be valid concern.

Just my opinion, Brian

 

Just by going to 18" you will not hurt the performance. It depends on the weight of the wheel and the performance of the tire you choose. You can improve the performance by going to a higher performance tire and lighter weight wheel.
If I can help let me know.

 

Like Jim said there are many other variables involved not just the diameter of the rim. My 18s did slow me down though, I felt the loss in power. For all out performance I think 17s are better for the S2.