Question on downsizing rim width

[lista]

Hi all

I am wondering if I ran 15x5jj wheels on the front of the car instead of the stock 15x6jj wheels, but using the same 195/50/15 tyres I currently run, will this affect the car/the handling?

Similarly, if I ran 15x6.5jj rear wheels as opposed to the 15x7jj stock wheels, again running the same 225/50/15 tyres. Will this affect the car/the handling?

I am wondering because a set of the alloys I want are available in the UK in these sizes. They’re fairly difficult to come by, at least from my experience, so wondering if these would work. I understand it’s a bit of a compromise, but struggling to find these without spending an arm and a leg! Hayashi streets for reference - thanks!

[TonyleFrog]

Your proposed retention of the OEM tyre sizes on narrower rims is a non-starter.
See - https://www.tyres-pneus-online.co.uk/ty ... dvice.html

The other critical measurement is the offset (ET) number of the specific set of wheels you're contemplating buying. Without this info, it's impossible to say whether they will fit.

Even if they do, it is likely that the car's handling will be affected. Any width change, whether up or down will make a difference.
Likewise, the half inch increase in the stagger differential. The problem is that you won't know to what extent the handling will be altered until you have fitted them and driven the car.

Downsizing on wheel widths is not something I would even contemplate tbh, especially a 16.5% reduction on the fronts. When moving awat from the OEM widths I've always gone wider while preserving the 1" stagger.

[nick]

I agree with Tony. At best the tyres will feel less precise with poorer turn in .

[lista]

Thanks both, apologies for the late response on this but appreciate the advice - I’ve decided to go ahead with different wheels.

[TonyleFrog]

No sweat. Have you seen this? - https://www.mr2oc.co.uk/know-your-2/mk2 ... tyres.html

[Wilkie Senior]

Hi

lista, glad to see you have re considered re wheels & tyres

Please keep us updated on what you are doing & dont hesiate to ask any further question all here to help and encourage :-)

had 17s, 16s then back to 17s, then to 16s on my MR2s

I have to say after having a few different sets of wheels on the MR2s my current
16x7 ET35 205/45/16 front
16x8 ET38 225/45/16
with ADR08s for me, as its all personal preference, the set up Ive been the happiest with :-)