Mk1 wheels: 6.5Jx16(ET42) VS. 7x16(ET40)?

[Leon2012]

Hi,

I'm trying to decide on some new wheels for my Mk1 Leon TDI, and have come across 2 sets of wheels which look very similar, but have slightly different sizes.

I've researched what the wheel sizings mean in a technical way, and based on that the 7Jx16(ET40) should be better for road holding and handling than the smaller rim width of 6.5J and slightly smaller ET size should help too.

Is this also correct in real terms for the Mk1 Leon TDI?

Would I notice the difference between the two, and would I need to (or be better to) use different tyres with these 2 different wheel sizes, or would the same 205/55/R16 tyres be ok?

Cheers!

 

[Leon2012]

PS. I'm currently using the standard 6Jx15 ET38 wheels, am on standard 110 SX TDI suspension and looking for better handling/cornering. I had also thought about using Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 tyres with the new wheels, but have just discovered that they don't make them in 205/55/R16 size!

Info I've got elsewhere for 7" Vs. 6.5" rim width:

a 5.5" width would be considered narrow, 6 or 6.5" would be mid and 7" would be wide. According to Yokohama, adopting a wider wheel increases vehicle stability and improves steering response and cornering ability.

"You will get a little bit larger footprint as you are streching the tire. But the big thing is the more you strech the tire the less sidewall flex you get. This gives you quicker turn in and more control mid corner IMO."

 

[Leon2012]

Any help on this please guys? -I need to get wheels & summer tyres sorted soon