18" wheels
12-14-2002, 08:56 PM
#1
Burning Brakes
Thread Starter
18" wheels
The worst thing in life is buying a new 993 and waiting 2 weeks for delivery. Tooooooo much time to think. My question is having had (2) previoes 911's w/16" wheels and tires, what difference can I expect with 18" wheels? Is it going to be a rough ride? etc.etc. Also I have noticed on the board that everyone is talking about lowering and lowered to RS specs or Eoro specs. What are the advantages and dis-advantages of this? Is it necessary for anything other than looks? Can I do this with 18" wheels on a 95 car? What will this do to the ride if anything? This has been the longest 12 days of my life. Can't wait till the 19th for delivery!! <img src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" border="0" alt="[cheers]" />
12-14-2002, 11:15 PM
#2
Racer
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL
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Chaz:
I too have 18" wheels on my car. There are people in this forum that can opine in depth about the difference in wheel size. I will offer you a 'seat of the pants' experiencial opinion.
As you probably know, as the wheel size increases, the tire section (height) decreases. So with a big 18" wheel, you end up with a very short side wall. This makes for a more stiff structure that affords better handling (less squirm). However, since there is no 'free lunch' in this world, you give up an amount of riding comfort. Also, their is virtually no 'buffer safety zone' when parking. Be careful of curb rash cause the rim is so low & exposed.
I find the ride quite firm but not unduly severe or punishing. No fillings have fell out so it can't be too bad! The handling is sensational, there is absolutely no squeal noise while turning at speed. Braking has to be experienced to be believed! And of course, the look of big wheels with humongously wide rubber is totally outrageous! The whole effect is over the top!
I think you will definitely be a happy camper when your baby arrives. Enjoy!
I too have 18" wheels on my car. There are people in this forum that can opine in depth about the difference in wheel size. I will offer you a 'seat of the pants' experiencial opinion.
As you probably know, as the wheel size increases, the tire section (height) decreases. So with a big 18" wheel, you end up with a very short side wall. This makes for a more stiff structure that affords better handling (less squirm). However, since there is no 'free lunch' in this world, you give up an amount of riding comfort. Also, their is virtually no 'buffer safety zone' when parking. Be careful of curb rash cause the rim is so low & exposed.
I find the ride quite firm but not unduly severe or punishing. No fillings have fell out so it can't be too bad! The handling is sensational, there is absolutely no squeal noise while turning at speed. Braking has to be experienced to be believed! And of course, the look of big wheels with humongously wide rubber is totally outrageous! The whole effect is over the top!
I think you will definitely be a happy camper when your baby arrives. Enjoy!
12-15-2002, 02:22 AM
#3
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[quote]Originally posted by 993chaz:
<strong>The worst thing in life is buying a new 993 and waiting 2 weeks for delivery. Tooooooo much time to think. My question is having had (2) previoes 911's w/16" wheels and tires, what difference can I expect with 18" wheels? Is it going to be a rough ride? etc.etc. Also I have noticed on the board that everyone is talking about lowering and lowered to RS specs or Eoro specs. What are the advantages and dis-advantages of this? Is it necessary for anything other than looks? Can I do this with 18" wheels on a 95 car? What will this do to the ride if anything? This has been the longest 12 days of my life. Can't wait till the 19th for delivery!! <img src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" border="0" alt="[cheers]" /> </strong><hr></blockquote>
Much like skytop said the 18" wheels have their advantages and disadvantages.
The question is what type of use your car will see! Is it strictly street or you anticipate track work as well? Is is a daily driver or a weekend queen?
Installing 18" wheels on a 95 according to the factory requires an additional brace to be installed in the steering column ($40).
As for the suspension mods you are on a board that is filled with performance junkies! It is all about handling! The stock suspension leaves a lot to be desired if performance is your priority. I would invite you to read the FAQ posted on the top of this page and there through the link you will find an excellent FAQ about suspension mods from Robin.
Finally a lowered 993 looks sooo much better
<strong>The worst thing in life is buying a new 993 and waiting 2 weeks for delivery. Tooooooo much time to think. My question is having had (2) previoes 911's w/16" wheels and tires, what difference can I expect with 18" wheels? Is it going to be a rough ride? etc.etc. Also I have noticed on the board that everyone is talking about lowering and lowered to RS specs or Eoro specs. What are the advantages and dis-advantages of this? Is it necessary for anything other than looks? Can I do this with 18" wheels on a 95 car? What will this do to the ride if anything? This has been the longest 12 days of my life. Can't wait till the 19th for delivery!! <img src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" border="0" alt="[cheers]" /> </strong><hr></blockquote>
Much like skytop said the 18" wheels have their advantages and disadvantages.
The question is what type of use your car will see! Is it strictly street or you anticipate track work as well? Is is a daily driver or a weekend queen?
Installing 18" wheels on a 95 according to the factory requires an additional brace to be installed in the steering column ($40).
As for the suspension mods you are on a board that is filled with performance junkies! It is all about handling! The stock suspension leaves a lot to be desired if performance is your priority. I would invite you to read the FAQ posted on the top of this page and there through the link you will find an excellent FAQ about suspension mods from Robin.
Finally a lowered 993 looks sooo much better
