Advise on buying new wheels/rims for 6.9

[Andreas]

I have managed to get hold of a 6.9. I know very little about tires and rims. But I do know is that the tires on the standard rims of the original wheels are expensive harder to get and not as good performance/saftey wise.

If i was to change the rims what would be the best option for performance, saftey, comfort for a wheel that is reasonably priced. I guess changeing the rims will also put my speedo reading out. I would hate to put my speed reading out to much as  I would like to avoid some speeeding tickets.

Would appreciate any feedback/experience (Good/Bad) so that I can make a better informed choice for this type of vehicle.

Thanks Andreas 

[Mforcer]

I faced the same decision not that long ago and decided on 16" rims for the much better choice in tyres. I managed to find some AMG rims with the correct offset but there are other rims available, including new after-market rims. Original rims from a W126, W123 or W107 will fit too and can be found in 15" and 16" sizes.

With the 16" rims and much better tyres, my handling is now much, much better, especially in the wet. You will not regret the improved handling.

As for putting the speedo out, this should not be a problem if you use the correct size tyre for the rim you select. My speedo is out by 1% - I am doing 101 km/h when my speedo reads 100 km/h and is not something I am concerned about.

[AMG69]

I bought a set of these AMG Penta's - 16x8's; but, they do rub at the front a bit on hard lock and if you hit a drain / pot hole too fast you may cause the tyre to hit the inside of the guard causing a bulge in the guard....yes, I have personal experience in this! I'm aware of another 6.9 owner in Perth who had the identical experience.  I'm not sure whether anyone on this site has had that problem with 8 inch wide rims? or whether a slight increase in ride height (if thats possible?) would help.....
cheers!

[Mforcer]

Hi Chris and I am very sorry to hear about the trouble you have had with your AMG rims. Have you looked into have the wheel arches rolled? How much rubbing is there?

[AMG69]

450SE - yes, I think when the rust is cut out of the floor I'll get the guard fixed too (rolled); try findinga  panel beater in Perth though - why work for pittance when a Cleaner can earn $65000 per annum on the Mines.  Nothing like a Resources boom to increase the cost of labour....

[Andreas]

Hi Styria,

Have not got the car yet. Will take maybe until thursday or just after easter when i get delivery.......hey cost me 290 to get it to adelaide from brisbane so I cant complain as a mate got a good deal for me i think they waited for a full load of cars load.

Is the gleaming beuty in the phot  section your car? If so I do like your wheels. What are they?

Andreas

[s class]

Bridgestone have variations on their catalogue for different geographical regions.  Their Australian catalogue includes Turanza GR50 S&S which is also available in South Africa, but not US or Europe as far as I know.  I have used Turanza GR50 S&S for many years now in 205/70HR15.  THe performance is absolutely astounding.  With any other tyre it feels like the rear end is "loose" - due to sidewall deflections I understand.  The GR50 gives me 50 000km for a set and wet performance that very nearly matches the dry performance.  Or put it another way, I have come to regard my W116 as almost undriveable when I have tried other tyres. 

I think the GR50 is also available in 215/65 R14 which may suit the 6.9 better. 

I have had better more confident handling with these tyres on 14" than cheaper tyres on 15" wheels.

I have never tried Michelin XWX so I can't comment on that. 

I have some R129 15 hole wheels at home at the moment with Bridgestone Potenza G3 in 225/55VR16 - I must try them on the W116 when I get a chance. 

Good luck with your wheel hunting. 

Ryan