The diameter of the wheel and tire usually remains pretty close, that is not the factor.

Its the weight of the wheel that matters. More weight = a higher rotational mass = which makes the car need more hp to reach the same speed.

Its the same reason a lot of car tuners get a lightweight crank pully, the much lower weight of the pulleyand sometimes slightly smaller size, gives it a lot lower rotational mass,and frees up more horsepower from the engine because the power can go to to the tranny instead of to turning the crank pulley.

So, if you buy 19s, and the overall diameter of the wheel and tire are the same, as long as the wieght of the wheel is the same, you shouldn't noticea difference. If they are heavier, you'll lose a few hp, if they're lighter, you'll gain a few hp.

So, when ever you buy new wheels, (no matter what size)you should take the weight of the wheels into consideration as one of theimportant factors.

 

OK I have changed my mind then. I want to have bigger rims but I dont want to lose much power doing it so I think I'm gonna go 18's. Tell me what you guys think about these rims and tires and if they will work for me. Thanks.

18" ADR Spartans http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/18-Bl...spagenameZWDVW

235/40/ZR18 Toyo Proxes 4 http://www.1010tires.com/tire.asp?ti...&pc=197090

 

Atta boy. I did the same thing

 

I like them rims but they dont say how much they weigh. [&o]

 

ill call them up and ask. what would be a good weight range?

 

Its been a while since i researched them but i think 15-20lbs. I asked months ago what the stock 17's weighed but i dont think i got an answer. I would prefer to stay as close to that if not lighter. HRR (think thats the brand) has some light rims but are expensive, but would be a good reference.

 

The whole mouse thing makes no sense to me. Its the most retarded analogy I've heard for this situation. The mouse will turn the wheel at its lowest point, using the leverage it has based on where the rim is at its biggest point, but the car will always spin the wheel from the center, no matter how big or small the wheel is. The bolt pattern doesn't change, so it does't matter if its a 19" or a 14", as long as the tirs are the same diameter. Now, imagine a mouse on a 14" wheel, and on a 19" wheel. Now, remember the tires around these wheels are the same. The 14" wheel has a steeper wall for the mouse to climb, thus it would be harder for it to turn it. He would literally have to throw his body into the rim to get it going, as opposed to taking a long gradual step on the 19".....why am I arguing this?

 

ok thanks a lot for the help guys. ill post some pics when i get them

 

i think 19's look great on a b5 but they dent more easily. 17's or 18's are the best choice. love those rims BTW

 

It isnt that you lose power, the bigger rims just weigh more so it is harder for the engine.