FR - 17" and 18" wheels

[markfranklin]

Hi, please everyone forgive my total lack of knowledge here, but would someone be able to let me know what the benefits are of selecting the 18" alloys over the standard 17".

I know there is the better look of them, but would I notice any differences in the drive?

Also, I would be very interested to know the cost, as I know several contributors have opted for the 18" wheels. In the accessories booklet, it quotes some 18" wheels at £150 and others at £250 (or thereabouts). Does this mean you need to multiply by 4 and add this to the cost of the new car (seems very expensive having to add up to £1000 for "upgrade" of wheels from the standard 17" variety).

Many thanks

Mark

 

[Jul3s]

Hi,
I have just bought a Lean FR and gone for the 18" wheels, this customer me an additional £350.00 and was well worth it as they look really cool

 

[jon1]

Dont think there are many benefits other than aesthetics

17s are apparently more comfortable (iv never driven one with 17s)
tyres will be cheaper
possibly less road noise
easier to park aswell

i just couldnt live with the standard 17s they make me want 2 be sick

 

[Tam]

As others have said, apart from the look, the only difference you may find is a harder ride, due to the lower profile tyres.

Ordering on a new car will set you back £350.00 in total (i.e. all 4 + upgraded spare to the same dimension - although still a steel space saver!)

 

[Michael B]

Anyone know the difference in the width between the 17 and 18s?

 

[Tam]

Anyone know the difference in the width between the 17 and 18s?

Both the same
225/45 for 17's and 225/40 for 18's

 

[Rob GTI]

I have tested a FR with the 17s on (last weekend) and have a FR with the 18s on. The reason i tested the 17s was beacuse I don't like the ride currently, both low speed which is jarring and high speed on motorways which is bouncy. The 17s give a much better low speed ride (less jarring) but the bouncy feeling is still there on motorways.

 

[markfranklin]

Thanks to all - Rob, interesting to hear your comparisons. I might get shot for this, but on balance I will probably opt for the 17" as I like the slightly better ride. Personally I really don't mind the look of them. Also with company cars, the more you inflate the cost price, the more BIK tax you have to pay every month...!