Ok peoples don't laugh. I don't know **** about cars, that's why I come to you, you're my experts.

I'm looking at a bunch of rims that read : 18x 8.5 or 19x10... Now I don't know squat about cars but I can figure out the first number is the rim size (height wise), but what's the second number? And what's pros and cons of getting a higher number (say 10) as opposed to a lower number (say 8.5)?

 

Its how wide the rim is, so if you get a 19x10 in the front it will probly rub.
It depends on the car and the offset of the the rim

 

When looking at rims there are a number of number that you need to be aware of.

1. tire diameter -such as 14, 15, 16, 17, etc
2. width - such as 8, 8.5, 9 etc
3. bolt pattern - usually given as bolt circle and number of lugs -
4. offset - given in inches.

Putting the wrong tire on a rim can be diasterous
likewise with putting the wrong rim on a vehicle

The best place to check out what is needed for a particular vehicle is tire rack.

 

Hey rockboarder; NH USA, thanks for your imput. I've rode in a few of my peoples cars who have gigantic rims and I always hear/feel a rubbing sound whenever the vehicle turns a corner..guess there's my reason.

I appreciate the tips!

 

Yeah the second number refers to the width of the rim. You can go wider rims by having more offset, but there is limit to that. I would say for a typical a6 with stock suspension, the maximum size rim which would fit is about 19" diameter with 8.5" width. But you will really get crappy ride quality from that setup. Bumpy and scraping tires...

 

hxgaser,

thanks bro. I can sacrifice driving on bumpy roads for a few months. I'll only do like 20 mph or something like that. I just want some shoes because I'm in a car crew that's all; and we go out to a lot of events.