Alfa 156 - Tyre Size

Author
Discussion

partyboy1101

Original Poster:

64 posts

240 months

Friday 2nd April 2004
quotequote all
I wonder if anyone has fitted wider than standard tyres to a 156 V6. I've got the Veloce alloys with 205/55/16s tyres at the moment and I'm considering 225/50/16s, which will maintain the same rolling radius. Does anyone know if this will affect the handling in any way or are they likely to foul the arches. Any advice gratefully received. I'm also looking for a local specialist in the Leeds area for servicing if anyone can help. (I have seen the comments re: Americo and Lear's, has anyone tried Turin on Meanwood Road??)

wombat rick

13,403 posts

244 months

Friday 2nd April 2004
quotequote all
If you are using the same wheels, you will find your turn in is less positive and the handling as a whole more "squidgy". Basically your sidewalls will be more balloon shaped than before. Personally I wouldn't do it unless you have a very good reason to.
I have 215/45/17's on mine and there is no problem with clearance. 225 could be marginal, although the GTA uses this size, it has very different suspension, especially at the front.

Turins are well recommended, but I have never used them myself.

partyboy1101

Original Poster:

64 posts

240 months

Friday 2nd April 2004
quotequote all
Cheers Rick,

I assumed that the wider rubber would give me a bit more grip and hadn't considered the trade off with squidgy side walls. Maybe a strut brace is the way forward?

Have you any advice on tyre brands, I'm currently considering Toyo Proxes or Nokian NRZi's, (both of which are pretty cheap at mytires.co.uk - looks like a good site for cheap tyres). I'm looking for something that will indulge my creative driving without wearing out too quick.

pdV6

16,442 posts

261 months

Friday 2nd April 2004
quotequote all
Just my 2p, but Alfas have usually had pretty nifty development work in the handling department and I'd need a very good reason to mess with one of the major variables...

wombat rick

13,403 posts

244 months

Saturday 3rd April 2004
quotequote all
The Toyos get very good reviews, and seem popular. I've tried Pirelli P Zero Neros and found them dire. Switched to Goodyear GSD3's and they are excellent. Bit noisy on certain surfaces, but other than that, great!

A strut brace is a major improvement on the heavy engined 156's. It even seems to reduce the risk of bottoming out.
£100 from your dealer for an approved one (it's actually made by Momo) or half that for Sparco or OMP from places like Demon Tweeks.

I would leave the tyre size as is, and treat yourself to a strut brace.