I didnt get much response from the last ?s on my last post about changing wheels, so I'll try a new approach....

I havent driven a MINI with 16s so I dont know how they perform, Ive been told the cars were designed for 16s...
my 17s seem hard like theyre hard on the sterring pump, Im hearing a whizzzzzzy noise.
Im also concerned with looks, how much of a gap is there on an S with 16s, can anyone post pics of both 17 S-lites and 16s to compare???
I like the look of Minilite type wheels, I go back and forth with my wheels, one day they look good to me the next they look a little wagon wheelish to me.
whats you opinions?

Pt. 2
an aftermarket Co. is making a alloy wheel for the NEW BEETLE that looks like the old 60s VW steel wheel with the holes around the outside edge, uses a moon hubcap looks very cool/retro.
Is there anyone reproducing a 60's style Mini wheel yet, I dont mean the Minilites Im talking about like the factory steel wheels, of course it would have to be bigger than the original, lol.

db

 

myminiparts.com have these in 16" x 7", 17" x 7", and 17" x 7.5"

 

16x7 ET40 Panasport ...

 

I noticed these recently on Tirerack.com... ASA JH6 (17x7) in silver or chrome...

 

Here are the konig rewinds - only in 15" though...



on this thread: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...t=konig+rewind

Good luck!:smile:

 

I think the panasport C8FE's are the best looking if you can get them:


I've only ever seen them on Japanese MINI's.

Luke

 

Some installed pics here:
http://www.mini2.com/gallery/personal/gallery_5413.html

I had intended to use my S-lites w/Proxes 4s for the winter. After driving on these, I refuse to put the heavy things back on. The difference in performance is amazing! Go with some light wheels such as these @ ~14# each (vs. 25# for S-lites) & you won't regret it..

 

Hi, just FYI the weird whiny noise from the steering is normal on the Mini, it is the electronic pump I think (or something like that). Not only did I check with Mini service on this, but since have listened for it on other Minis and so far it seems like they all sound that way. 17" wheels are fine for the car :smile:

I'm a fan of light aftermarket wheels too though, and you can save a lot of weight staying with the 17s, or of course, go smaller if you like.

 

I assume from your posts that no one is making a old style factory Mini wheels for the new MINI (of course they would have to be alloy and at least 15s) yet, just Minilite styles for now.

vm,
what size are the wheels on the cars you showed?
I cant make up my mind whether to stay with my 17 S-lites and replace the runflats or try to find a Mini-lite style wheel, unfortunately I cant afford the Panasport @ $275 each . and Im sure a real Mini-lite from england is outragous in a 16-17.
Im not sure if the 16s will look too small??
The 17 S-lites look like wagon wheels to me sometimes.
Am I crazy to get rid of the 17s for 16s????
are there any factory 16 wheels that are light and look ok??
are they all boat anchors too?

thanks db

 

so those are 15s?

I like the way they look....
am I crazy to want a smaller wheel???
I just think it looks cleaner...or more like what the car should have...

wheres some ppl with 17 pros...why do you guys like 17s?

db

 

With less sidewall on the tires there is less flex, the handling is sharper.

Also I prefer the way it looks :smile:

 

looks, looks looks..... it just looks soooo right for a mini....

granted, it also varies from wheel to wheel, mini lite esque styles i'd prefer something smaller

 

16" x 7" $989
17" x 7" $1099
17" x 7.5" $1199

Sold in a set of four with proper lugs and caps.

 

How about $221 (silver) or $236 (silver with polished lip) each?