Bigger Wheels

colrich

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I know this has probably been discussed in previous posts, I'd like to know what is the largest wheel I can I fit to my csl without having to do any mods to bodywork etc, would it be 16" ? if so I want to keep the same alpina style wheel, are they available or something similar from a later model perhaps, any advice appreciated
 
This topic has been discussed few times.

It is not only size (17" max. as far as I remember) but the other wheel dimensions: ET and how wide the tyre can be used.
 
These are the type @Wladek is referring to. They came from Alpina for their E12/ E24’s. Very popular with the E9’s and fit with minor modifications like rolling the fender lips.

 
Last edited:
These are the type @Wladek is referring to. They came from Alpina for their E12/ E24’s. Very popular with the E9’s and fit with minor modifications like rolling the fender lips.


Really nice wheels. Some could wish they've never been powder coated. It is hard to see any markings.
 
All the answers are covered in the Wheel Size & Options FAQ.

 
All the answers are covered in the Wheel Size & Options FAQ.

Mechitectic have some replicas made by maxilite listed , will they fit an are they any good?
 
I'd stay OEM on a CSL. To my mind BMW got it perfect when they left the factory.
Totally different ballgame if you are messing around with say a US delivered car (CS), with the ugly bumpers. rear side indicators and emission systems - as that all needs to go away and go back to Euro spec.

There are people who would give up both their kidney's (or a child) to own a factory Ceylon CSL with factory Alpina's. I'm assuming you still have the original wheels?
This site really is a wealth of knowledge (and opinions) but my advice is you should give more weight to those who own or who have restored CSL's, as you really have something quite special. Don't let exuberance overpower wisdom. My advice is drive the car as is for a bit and enjoy it.
 
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I have run both 16s and 14s on my CSL. Currently with 14s. I LOVE the Pirelli CN36 replica tire. Super sticky. And great period look. And better performance than the XWX.
So you've run them back to back? I've heard the XWX's are a little stickier than the CN36's...
 
We run 14 & 16 Alpina alloys and both look amazing

It’s down to personal taste end of the day
 
16 Alpina alloys can be found in the UK, starting price ie
1500 need full Refurb
2000, good presentable condition
2500 mint ones
 
These are the 16 inch wheels colrich is interested in buying & probably less expensive than finding correct Alpinas.
These are on may of the Oldenzaal coupes restored in Europe that we see on BaT, they have the wrong profile and the spokes look razor sharp, it’s just not a good look IMHO.
 
Whats the matter with the Coupe King copies? Are they still having issues with the off-center hole patterns or did they get that corrected?
 
So you've run them back to back? I've heard the XWX's are a little stickier than the CN36's...
On the CSL it has been 16 inch Contis and 14 inch CN36s back to back.

I have had the XWX on some of my other old cars (Alfas) in the 185/14 size and I found the the CN36 to be superior in wet (really just damp) and dry traction. Steve has driven the CN36 in monsoons, but I never have. The XWX is more "correct" for a CSL, but I love the CN36, and since my car was Italian delivery we can pretend that's what the first owner bought when his factory set of Michelins wore out. Your mileage may vary.

That said, Michelin is my go to brand for all the family DDs, and they are the best tire maker across all models and sizes.
 
The profiles are really different….. they both look period correct but the Pirelli‘s look ultra cool!
52A68B32-9DC3-4045-B849-D26D94239442.jpeg
D6CB94AE-6195-4278-B5F7-02293EA35966.png
 
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