Quote:
Originally Posted by Sven7
That shows that the 14 pound difference between the wheel/tire packages- 15x6" and 19x8.5"- was 2.2mpg over their test, with the smaller wheels being better. The roadholding also drops 0.05g with the skinnier 195 tires compared to 235's.
Also note that the 2.2mpg improvement also equated to 0.2 seconds and 2mph quicker in the quarter mile. Braking 60-0 mph is 4 feet worse with the skinny tires.
The smaller wheels and tires have lower prices, lower weight, better mpg, better acceleration and marginally lower road noise.
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Relative to this thread, I will say that if the cars are the same weight, whichever car has less rotational mass will be better for mpg in stop and go situations. Whether the difference is multiplied by 1.5 or 10, you're still going to benefit by reducing rotating mass. |
I just realized this test is completely focused on keeping
tire diameter the same. To be clear, it does not affect gearing, aka how many axle rotations to travel so far. This was only comparing the rim/tire ratio, keeping them at the same tire diameter.
Something to keep in mind if you are thinking about changing gearing (tire diameter).