Transformed E39

[aarondrs]

I have a 530i E39. Its a 2003 Saloon in SE spec with M interior. I was running on the standard 16" wheels with 225/55/16 Pirellis and have just acquired a set of original 17" wheels now with Dunlop SP 235/45/17. The handling is transformed, its grippier pointier and much more direct. I can feel more through my fingers and its much more stable on the motorway.

Couldn't believe the difference they have made.

Juts thought I would share that with someone..

Edited by aarondrs on Friday 29th May 14:52

[ipwn]

Apparently the M sport of the E39 is an even better comprimise between sport and handling !

[B19GRR]

I suspect it's more down to rubber than tyres to be honest as I went from 17s down to 16s over the winter and considered it a huge improvement in comfort and stability. 17s had Falkens, 16s have Pirelli P7s front and Federal somethings on the back. I did have the Federals on the front briefly but the handling went all to pot yet they're find out back. Nowt queer as rubber it seems

Cheers,
Rob

[Matt UK]

When looking for my e39, I found that a Sport model on 17s was the perfect balance of ride / handling for me

[Fox-]

Matt UK said:

When looking for my e39, I found that a Sport model on 17s was the perfect balance of ride / handling for me

When I moved to the 18's I was suprised to not notice any real degredation in ride quality.

[jboy72]

Another thumbs up for the 530i sport set up - I was worried the ride might prove harsh in and around Central London (it's the school run car. Sensible? I dont think so) with all of the chubby speed bumps, pot holes etc. But I was wrong! Its bliss - and on a run through Kent B roads handles like a dream...


Edit: "Direct", as used by the OP - exactly the word that sprang to my mind when I came back from my first proper drive. My car feels as if I can point it in any given direction, or more specifically along any given curvature, and it just goes exactly where I want it to. At virtually any speed, rubber willing. Its hard to explain this sensation but if anyone has ever driven a Saab 9-5, followed by an e39 you will know EXACTLY what I am talking about...

Edited by jboy72 on Friday 29th May 19:54

[aarondrs]

jboy72 said:

Another thumbs up for the 530i sport set up - I was worried the ride might prove harsh in and around Central London (it's the school run car. Sensible? I dont think so) with all of the chubby speed bumps, pot holes etc. But I was wrong! Its bliss - and on a run through Kent B roads handles like a dream...


Edit: "Direct", as used by the OP - exactly the word that sprang to my mind when I came back from my first proper drive. My car feels as if I can point it in any given direction, or more specifically along any given curvature, and it just goes exactly where I want it to. At virtually any speed, rubber willing. Its hard to explain this sensation but if anyone has ever driven a Saab 9-5, followed by an e39 you will know EXACTLY what I am talking about...

Edited by jboy72 on Friday 29th May 19:54

Know the feeling well having spent a brief period in a Saab 9-5 before the ex wife ran off with it....

Shame