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Old 16th June 2004, 14:42   #14 (permalink)
Rehaan
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Quote[/b] (msreenivasan @ June 15 2004,20:39)]1. Alloy Wheels - Does it make any big difference?
2. Upgrade to 15'' wheel - In US (Suzuki Forenza) and Canada (Optra), the same vehicle is sold with 15'' wheels and tyres (190/55 R15). Dealer is suggesting 195/65 R14. Any advices? Does it affect safety?
Hey Veipe,

Enjoy your new car man!

Msreenivasan,

To answer your questions-
1. Does it make a BIG difference... alloy wheels have these benefits -
-They are lighter so better fuel economy etc.
-They dont rust like steel wheels so the airseal between a tubeless tire and an alloy is superior to that from a steel wheel
-They usually let more air flow over your brakes, keeping them cool
-They dissipate heat through the alloy better.
-There are several more reasons...but honestly..i think the best thing about alloys is the way they make your car look! Even if the other advantages werent there i would still go for alloys!

2. In the US & other countries (with better roads) the stock wheels given on cars are always larger. In India this would not be a good idea as with larger alloys your tire sidewall height (profile) just gets shorter..and hence its easier to damage the alloys or feel the bumps in the road with larger wheels.
Your dealer is suggesting 195/65R14... that makes sense if you like spirited driving! But keep in mind...what is more important than how wide your tires are is how good the quality of the rubber used is. If you are looking for amazing braking and road holding go for the utlra-sport tires available from most manufacturers. My favourite being michelin.. beautiful soft grippy rubber.

cya
Rehaan
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