I have two sets of 16” wheels for my E9 (Alpina & BBS RS), but am currently using scruffy 14x6” FPS with OLD medium performance tires (Yokohama Avid, at least 10 years old).
Question for those who moved up to staggered 16” setups: how would you rate the functional benefits relative to the stock 14” setup with modern performance tires?
Why am I asking? I just finished a drive with our local Alfa club at speeds from 0-70mph on twisty/hilly western MA back roads (dry, cool day). Some of the roads were freshly paved, but there was also some broken pavement, leaves, dirt and gravel on some corners. These Alfa drivers are a pretty aggressive bunch, many of whom also vintage race.
Unexpectedly, I found the performance of the old 14” tires more than adequate for high spirited yet adult driving on public roads. and I was following a new Alfa Quadrifoglio without issues except on a few straights.
I do think this setup would be rather inadequate for a track day when combined with a decent driver (my brake pad compound also NG for track sessions).
I have not driven a classic BMW on 16” wheels w high performance tires. If the main benefit is cosmetic, I will restore my 14” set and shod them with CN36’s. And leave the two 16” sets for the next caretaker.
John
PS: I have the full Carl Nelson spring/shock and F/R antisway-bar setup.
Question for those who moved up to staggered 16” setups: how would you rate the functional benefits relative to the stock 14” setup with modern performance tires?
Why am I asking? I just finished a drive with our local Alfa club at speeds from 0-70mph on twisty/hilly western MA back roads (dry, cool day). Some of the roads were freshly paved, but there was also some broken pavement, leaves, dirt and gravel on some corners. These Alfa drivers are a pretty aggressive bunch, many of whom also vintage race.
Unexpectedly, I found the performance of the old 14” tires more than adequate for high spirited yet adult driving on public roads. and I was following a new Alfa Quadrifoglio without issues except on a few straights.
I do think this setup would be rather inadequate for a track day when combined with a decent driver (my brake pad compound also NG for track sessions).
I have not driven a classic BMW on 16” wheels w high performance tires. If the main benefit is cosmetic, I will restore my 14” set and shod them with CN36’s. And leave the two 16” sets for the next caretaker.
John
PS: I have the full Carl Nelson spring/shock and F/R antisway-bar setup.