Miata Mailing List: June 1998, Message #363

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I've been following this post pretty closely as I've decided to get some
road-going wheels for my '95.

I'd love to have the *look* and stick of 16s with wide tires on them but
I've not yet answered the question to turbo or not to turbo.. If I do build
an incredibly fast car (which I *shouldn't* use on the road as I'd end up
incarcerated), I'd go with 16s..

Without a turbo, I've pretty much convinced myself *my* NA car would be
perfect with a set of 15" Panasports and T1s. (I've always had a soft-spot
for Panasports and Elans..<g> ) Road handling with stock wheels and SP8ks is
PLENTY capable given the cars horsepower.

When I moved to 195s from 185s, the car did loose a small (but noticeable)
amount of precision and steering feel. I've forgotten about this but I've
learned the more capabilities I tend to add to an already fun car, they
always become somewhat less enjoyable at near-legal speeds. Since my '95
will spend much of its time on the road, I almost know the answer to this..
(okay, who is willing to change my mind?? Anyone in the Boston area with an
FM Turbo??  <g>)

So, folks who've spent lotsa hard-earned cash on 15"s are you regretting the
decision now that you've seen another car with bigger wheels? (size DOES
matter you know!) How about the reverse? Anyone dissatisfied with running
larger tires on the street?

I suspect a Panasports in excellent condition wouldn't loose too much money
(60% of cost) but I'm not sure if I shouldn't just throw on a nice set (and
much more expensive) Sparco NS-II Vipers and 205/15/40s T1 Proxes now.. (and
suffer with the better looks and more stick..)

I really don't like running around looking MUCH faster than I really am and
it'll be a little while until the budget permits a FM turbo and TEC-II.. :)
I guess if I do the 16s, I'd better add the black racing stripes too..
(gotta go all the way..)

-Brian

-----Original Message-----
From: Steve Swiger <steve@swiger.com>
To: Multiple recipients of list <miata@realbig.com>
Date: Wednesday, June 03, 1998 9:43 AM
Subject: Re: 16 inch vs 15 inch wheels


>Randy,
>
>I just swapped out a set of aftermarket 14's for a set of 16 split-stars...
>I don't care if anyone tells you they are slower, or harsher ride, etc...
>They look terrific, and I would love to see the larger wheels with a
>suspension kit.  Also, I have 205/40's on mine and that is a completely
HUGE
>patch of rubber to put on the ground.  Go for it! (and post pictures!)
>
>Steve and Calvin (95 White new feet and shoes 2 sizes bigger)
>
>
>
>