How Does Wheel Size Affect Car Performance?

Posted by AudioCityUSA on March 22nd, 2021

Wheel size can have a massive impact on the performance of the vehicle. It can also impact noise levels, comfort, and fuel economy. Due to the increase in the wheel size, the height of the tire sidewall decreases which can sharpen the performance and improve the handling of the vehicle. Increased wheel size can also lap times but not massively.

When it comes to noise, vibration, and harshness, smaller rims are usually quieter and less harsh than larger wheels. Smaller wheels can also make a car feel more comfortable especially when it comes to driving over potholes and rougher road surfaces.

For an aesthetically pleasing look, you can fill the wheel arches for a more aggressive and hunkered look. Your car can be made to look rogue and more compact inside the profile. A car’s engine finds it more difficult to rotate larger wheels, making for a decrease in overall acceleration. Fuel economy will also inevitably suffer as well due to the engine having to work harder to rotate the wheels.

If you are thinking of adding massive wheels to your vehicle, you should be careful that the bigger the wheel the bigger the tires and, therefore, the higher the rolling resistance. The more something resists, the more energy is needed to move it. Therefore, they are going to burn more fuel to move your car. Also, larger tires weigh more so this too can also negatively affect fuel consumption.

Another area affected by wheel diameter is the tire that has to be mounted to it. Since the speedometer and gearing are finely tuned to the entire diameter of the alloy and tire combined, as wheel size increases, the profile of the tire must decrease to not mess this calibration around.

So, if you are thinking about switching tire size you should think about what it is you want to get out of your tires. If you want to improve handling and performance maybe you should upsize your wheels. On the other hand, if you want to improve noise and comfort and fuel economy you could look at putting on smaller wheels.

Increasing wheel diameter normally means increasing its width as well, making the contact patch between tire and road larger, and hence increasing grip. You should also stiffen your suspension along with increasing tire width as the body roll will increase substantially.

If you’re looking to buy new wheels, AudioCityUSA is your place to go. The company provides high-quality wheels for an enjoyable ride while also imparting an unmatched look to your vehicle. The online store offers aftermarket wheels from a plethora of world-renowned brands including Moto Metal, AC Forged, Niche, XD, Blaque Diamond, Rohana, and various others.