Summer/Winter Wheel Size

[brewsta]

I've ordered a V50 2.0 with 17" x7" Zauraks and it will arrive in mid-October.
I'm in Europe and will need to change to winter wheels -- which I have not bought yet. I'd like some advice.

I'm planning to buy an extra set of alloy rims (probably aftermarket) -- Should I stick with 17" x 7" for winter or would it be better to have 16" x 7" ? Should the season have any role in the size decision or is it just about the style of ride I want (and cost for larger rims/tires)?

[7050man]

I suppose it depends how much snow and ice you will be driving on. Standard wheels should be ok, but generally snow tyres are a lot thinner to improve point loading. What about studded tyres? I think in Sweden cars use these in winter anyway. Perhaps a call to Volvo might help.

I should add, that here in the UK our roads are so bad these days with pot holes and poorly repaired surfaces that 16" rims and higher profile tyres will definitely give a better ride . My SE spec car really does feel the bumps and tyre noise is quite high on all but the smoothest surfaces.
Next time I may get these size wheels anyway.

[brewsta]

Well, I only drive on snow a few times per season. Studded tires are out.

I'm just wondering if the 17" will get even more stiff in cold weather or they are not as good on snow. Or if there is someone who recommends changing to 16" for winter for any reason.

[imac]

I'm just wondering if the 17" will get even more stiff in cold weather or they are not as good on snow. Or if there is someone who recommends changing to 16" for winter for any reason.

I drop down to 16" for winter. Thinner tyres are better in snow/ice and the higher sidewall is better for protection against objects under heavy snow (sliding sideways into a kerb, for example).

My summer tyre size is 225/45-17 and my winter size is 205/55-16. If your summer tyre size is not 225/45 let me know what it is and I'll tell you the correct 16" size.

Also, winter tyres are a lot cheaper as 16" rather than 17" :)

[brewsta]

Very helpful -- especially on tire sizes.