I have read in the automovtive press about the ride quality vs. handling trade-off on the factory wheel options for the "S". The two MINIs I test drove had the 16" wheels and I didn't have the opportunity to try the 17". I need to make a decision to order my "S". I don't expect a Cadillac ride, but I do live in the Great Lakes area with roads that are less than ideal. I would like to hear if anyone has any regrets ordering the 17" wheels. I do think the 17s look the best.

 

I've test driven both. Really didn't notice any significant difference...

 

>>don't expect a Cadillac ride, but I do live in the Great Lakes area with roads that are less than ideal. I would like to hear if anyone has any regrets ordering the 17" wheels. I do think the 17s look the best.
>>

Living in western new york myself, i know exactall what you mean. And the best i can relate to you is that when i test drove a MCS, i took a shortcut behind a mall, and we all know how 'great' mall roads are... pothole city, and a lot of curves. And yes, it was a little rough, but not once did I have to fight with the wheel to keep it going where I wanted to go.. (which was usually a curve i was taking too fast...)... so i really wouldn't be too worried...

of course, as with all things i say, i could be totally wrong.... :smile:

Rocketboy_X

 

We at Classic Mini have 2 different styles of 17 inch wheel packages with 205-45-17 runflat tires pre-mounted and balanced in stock, and we sell ours MUCH MUCH less then anyone, bar none! Check out these prices! They do not include shipping and or applicable tax if any. I certainly would pay to make a small road trip to pick these up, or you could pay to have them shipped.
Our Price National Retail- from brochure+ tire
R85- 17x7 each $488.95 $613.05
These have pre-mounted/balanced 205-45-17 run flat tires
Our Price National Retail- from brochure
R90- 17x7 complete set $1974.50 $2565.00
Complete set pre-mounted/balanced 205-45-17 run flats

Brian Flick
Classic Mini

 

My MCS came with 17" Perelli run flats and I purchased a set of 16" Goodyear take offs from Scottsdale MINI at a very reasonable price. I have driven with both and can't tell a great deal of difference in ride. Side by side the diameter of the tires is almost identical. The 17" tires are about an inch wider and have a lower tread wear rating and softer rubber. I am using them for autocrossing. The 16" had a much harder rubber and higher tread wear rating. I use the 16" tires and wheels for day to day driving and when I want to do burn outs because they will really squeel!

 

I just rented (yes!) a loaded S from Budget for 3 days to see if I really wanted to own one. I drove it hard for 600 miles on freeways, mountain roads, and everywhere else my wife and I could drive to try it. Lots of the mountain roads were pretty rough and I didn't find the 17's objectionable at all. The only place I found the ride a problem was on concrete sections of freeway (between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara) with expansion joints. It set up a rythm thump that was really annoying. The good news is that nearly all freeway roads here are asphalt and the 17's road like a dream. What a car! I AM going to order one. P.S. If I had a buck for every smile, wave, comment, etc. I received over 3 days, the car would be paid for.