New 280i owner with big plans (we'll see about the progress)

[Wedgehead]

Hi, I recently acquired a 1985 280i (Not yet in my hands yet). Needs paint, massive cleaning and just about everything else. It's currently faded white, blue ripped interior and needs lots of love. I'm planning (read: dreaming) of new paint with upgraded wheels. I've scoured the forum and found all different wheel size information. Basically what it comes down to is; "it may fit on your car but on mine the fiberglass is thicker or the body might be off a bit etc...." But rule of thumb, what is the largest wheel I can fit without making any large mods etc...

Thanks for your input, pics would be greats well!

[phillpot]

Sounds like you have plenty of time before you need to decide on wheel sizes


Have fun with it

[Wedgehead]

I always am looking for opportunities (revivable junk), and have come across 14", 15" rims both 7"+ 8" wide. If I was sure about fit I may stockpile them for later use.

[Hayduke]

Finding good rubber for 14”!wheels is getting harder in the states, and will probably get tough for 15” someday sooner than later. I think you’ll be best off planning for a 16” wheel and a more modern tire aspect ratio - then your option open up considerably. 350i and (all?) other V8 wedges used 15” wheels. Some now wear 16” O. z. Factory wheels from the Tuscan challenge series. Good luck finding these here in the US. Shipping alone is more than they’re worth.

Take a browse through online photos of wedges with non-stock wheels. Very few 280i options look better than the stock color-keyed lattice wheels. I’m partial to the factory’s composite O.Z. 5 spokes and will trade my SEAC’s refurbed 15” polished lattice O.Z. set for some 15 or 16 “ 5 spoke O.Z.s. I’d rather buy outright tho... if I could.

Backspacing the wheels is the key to finding wheels that fit the wedges, but at least you don’t have to worry about rear brake clearance!

[tvrmk363]

I have 16" on my 350i and the tires rub on the front. I would stay with the 15" if you can get them or the 14" that came standard on 280i.

Charlie
Ohio
280i and 350i

[Wedgehead]

So a 15”. 7” wide rim. Should be ok then? Where do the 16’s it rub? To suspension? To wheel well? To wheel well body lip? Thanks for your help.