Wheels/Tires Combo for my96 Impreza L 4dr

[I3eXa]

I am looking to get rid of the stock steel wheels, and was wondering about new wheels. I don't know what to get, 16s 17s??? Will I have to lower my car any, if I go with a bigger wheel, what will kill my acceleration, what kind, size??? Can someone help me please, and keep the cost pretty minimal?
Thanks,
Cody

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[eastcoastbumps]

As far as 16" vs. 17" its up to you. The difference is minimal. 17"s look a little better, but are a little more expensive. 16"s ride a little smoother but aren't as stable in a corner as a lower profile 17" wheel/tire.

You could upgrade to WRX wheels. They are a dime a dozen on eBay and in the classifieds.

Those steelies are heavy anyways. I doubt you will notice a difference in accerleration or braking going to a 16" or 17" Either way, the cornering of your car will improve greatly with a 16" wheel/tire combo.

Other cheap alternatives are Rotas www.subydude.com and the RS knock offs on www.tirerack.com You could also keep a lookout on the classifieds.

You don't have to drop your car if you go to a bigger wheel. It would make your car look and drive even better, but you don't have to.

Pete

[maciek]

Here is some more food for thought.

17" wheels and tires are generaly more expensive than 16" wheels and tires.

I noticed a slight loss of acceleration and a huge loss of brake power going from 14" steelies to 17" Subaru rims.

The loss of acceleration and braking power has to due with the fact that the mass is now further from the center of the wheel.
So, if you had 14" and 17" wheels of the same weight....you would still notice slight loss of acceleration and braking w/ the 17's.

Also, you don't have to lower your car, but the bigger wheels will accentuate the wheel gap.

maciek