16" - 18" V50 Alloys, Any Issues??

[gsmithydrums]

New member and first question. I've searched and had a good dig about on the Forum for a few tips and found nothing concrete.

Can anyone advise the following please?

I've a fantastic Facelifted 2008 V50 1.8 running 16" Alloys w/Good Year 205/55 and have the chance to upgrade to Medusa 18's. w/Pirelli 215/45. Though not unhappy with the performance of the 16" wheel and tyre combo the cosmetics of the 18's appeal to me more than the standard wheel combo.

I've already been advised that they will fit right on as they were from a 57 V50SE Sport but are there any hidden downsides to this purchase? I already know the issues surrounding tyre choice/cost here on the forum but mean will anything else have to be considered for replacement. Springs bushes etc? Obviously these wheels come fitted to a car with a sportier suspension set-up, so perhaps the ride would not suffer as much with the softer standard set up??

I've used the Rolling Radius cal.. and it works out at a 3.1% difference, is this acceptable? I don't wish to change the drive other than to lose a bit of body roll and swapping out 15 for 17's on my Focus running standard set-up tightened up sufficient with no detriment to handling or comfort!!

I've read somewhere here too, that the 18's fitted to the sportier models have spacers fitted to prevent arch rubbing, is this something I would need, considering I would not be lowering the standard height?

Any help much appreciated, even if its to tell me not to buy!!

17's are an option I would consider too but I've got a heck of a deal lined up on the medusa's and want to get it right.


Thanks

Gordon

[jasonb]

I have a 1.8 V50 and initially it was running 205/50/17's on stock 17" alloys.

I've upgraded to 18" Superturismos running 225/40's.
There is a pic in my signature.

Technically they'll bolt straight on.
The 215 tyres were Volvo's choice and you may want to consider 225 or 235 when they wear purely on price grounds.

Most drivers here will suggest you go for 17" rims for the best all round handling combination but, like you I have a 1.8 and I'm not about to drive in a way I'll be arrested. 18" will be fine and I have no problems with stock suspension set-up.
In fact, I'm against lowering and enjoy the ride height as some of the tracks I drive on are pretty awful.

Just so you are paying the right money, these wheels go for £300-350 a set without tyres.
If they're mint condition, of course you'll pay more.

Good luck :-)

[Daim]

Volvo says to update the speedo, ehen running on 215/45 r18, otherwise it dan show leds than you're driving.

[jasonb]

Of course the speedo update is the official route recommended by Volvo but for a difference of 1.8mph at 60, hardly worth worrying about it providing you know you are actually going a tad faster in reality.

[961]

One issue is reduced comfort levels from 18" wheels

Ensure the insurance company is advised. Material spec alteration

[nilsj]

Looks is one thing, living with it is something else. Personally I find the 17" wheels with 205/50 tyres too firm and too sensitive to potholes and bad road surfaces. On 15" winter tyres the car is more comfortable.

[tayandre]

Ride on 18" is rubbish, so is the tyre noise.

[iainmd]

If you were to have a Volvo dealer's recommendation they would adjust the speedo and fit steering limiters for 18" rims.

Iain

[t5_monkey]

Originally Posted by jasonb

I have a 1.8 V50 and initially it was running 205/50/17's on stock 17" alloys.

I've upgraded to 18" Superturismos running 225/40's.
There is a pic in my signature.

Technically they'll bolt straight on.
The 215 tyres were Volvo's choice and you may want to consider 225 or 235 when they wear purely on price grounds.

Most drivers here will suggest you go for 17" rims for the best all round handling combination but, like you I have a 1.8 and I'm not about to drive in a way I'll be arrested. 18" will be fine and I have no problems with stock suspension set-up.
In fact, I'm against lowering and enjoy the ride height as some of the tracks I drive on are pretty awful.

Just so you are paying the right money, these wheels go for £300-350 a set without tyres.
If they're mint condition, of course you'll pay more.

Good luck :-)

Mines a stage 3+ T5... so I run 17's he he