Autobitz: Alpina Wheels Photos

Different wheels suit different cars. Older BMWs, such as the 2002, came with 13" steel or alloy wheels to suit their small wheel diameters and the higher profile tyres of the 1960s and 70s. The E30 three series was supplied with 14" rims which became 15" on the E36 and may well be 16" on the new E46 when it comes out soon.

So why the increase in wheel size? Tyre technology is the driving force. In the 1970s even supercars like the Lamborghini Countach only had 14" wheels, most Ferarris had 15". As tyre design has advanced lower profile tyres with stronger sidewalls have become available. Overall wheel diameter is still broadly the same but modern wheels with low profile tyres and larger metal rims offer a lower "slip angle" due to the lower flex in the wheel as a whole, this improves steering response.

One problem with low profile tyres is that because they offer less sidewall flex the driver gets less warning when the tyre is about to lose grip and start sliding. Higher profile tyres give more feedback before breaking traction. So a 17" wheel and 40 section tyres may offer more ultimate performance but just be sure you know what happens when you lose traction with little or no warning.

Alpina Wheels Photos