Changing of wheel size on 2000 Subaru Impreza

[Roger Woods]

Gents forgive me if this sounds daft but can I ask the following:

My Subaru is completely standard but I'm thinking of changing the wheels to 18 inch and maybe dropping the suspension slightly, is there anything I should consider when changing/upgrading.

Looking at Inovit Redlines in White going on a Green car - Views? - Any one got any photos with these wheels on a green car?

Also any views regarding springs etc?

I just want to get it right and not effect the handling

Edited by Roger Woods on Saturday 30th July 16:09

[omgus]

2000? So is it a classic?


And if so are you sure you really want 18's on a classic if handling is what your after?

[DocJock]

If you want handling stick to 16"s

18"s may give you more overall grip (in the dry) but the extra weight messes the handling.
Lowering a Macpherson strut car like a classic can actually raise the roll centre, which also affects handling.

I've tired 15", 16", 17" 1nd 18" on mine over the years and it definitely handles best on 16"s.
The 18"s gave a rubbish ride and spoiled the feel.

[omgus]

Mostly agree, but if you are intending on a big brake upgrade then you will find 17's give you the clearance. And i would much rather have my brakes and 17's than standard brakes and 16's.

[Roger Woods]

So should I leave it as it is but maybe just drop it slightly, they look better just a bit lower?

I have continentals on it currently that will need changing, if I keep it standard any views on tyres?

[rhinochopig]

I drove a bug fitted with STI wheels and it had an utterly utterly dreadful ride. The damping just couldn't cope with the heavier wheels.

You should only fitter bigger wheels if they are <= the weight of the wheels you are replacing. If heavier, there is a good chance the dampers will not cope with the increased work-out they'll get.

If you want bigger wheels I would stick to 17s max and then ONLY if they were a chunk lighter too.

[superman84]

18s are fine on a classic even without lowering and essential if you want to stick some big AP brakes on it.

[omgus]

superman84 said:

18s are fine on a classic even without lowering and essential if you want to stick some big AP brakes on it.

My Ap's fit fine with my 17's, How big are your brakes?