17 Inch vs 18 Inch Tires

JohnnyB756 · Dec 12, 2012

A personal observation: My car is spending the night at the dealer awaiting a part (rubber seal on body below driver's door). Meanwhile we are driving a loaner S60. My car has 17 inch wheels and the loaner has 18 inch wheels. It was somewhat surprising to me that I could really feel the difference in ride quality. The 18's are a bit more harsh, feeling every little ripple/bump in the road.

To be fair, it could also be the different tire brand (18's are Conti's and 17's are Michelin's) as well as proper tire inflation. I have heard this mentioned on this forum but this was the first chance for me to experience it.

Anyone else?

Bl2UTAL · Dec 12, 2012

18's will always have a rougher ride than 17's. Then again, its all depending on the tires SIDEWALL size. The lower the number 50,45,40 etc etc, will make every bump in the road seem huge. This is because the tire doesnt absorb any of the impact.

Wayne T5 · Dec 13, 2012

My first R had 18's for summer and 17's for winter and you could definitely tell the difference, though you need to check tire pressure too. Dealer may have the tire pressure cranked up on a loaner car with 18's just to provide an extra measure of protection as the Conti's have a reputation for having soft sidewalls.

I am really happy with the 17 inch set-up on my car though I'd probably be happy with 18's as well.

krn · Dec 13, 2012

Is the loaner a T6? A T6 also has the stiffer dynamic suspension (stock) which is going to also
add to the "harshness".

shbiv · Dec 13, 2012

I actually have a 2011 T6 with the "Touring" suspension - I guess one of the few out there like that. I have noticed that the two S60 T5 loaner vehicles I have had with the 17 inch tires do appear to ride smoother. However, I like to be able to "feel" the road and the T6 with the 18s in my opinion do that much better.

17 Inch vs 18 Inch Tires

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