Squared or Staggered wheels? (Page 1/1)
WaterInYuhDish SEP 03, 01:35 AM
1986 GT 4 speed 2.8 fastback

I know there are tons of threads about wheel and tire sizes. I have a pretty good idea of what the tolerances are from those and am more specifically looking to see what more experienced Fiero folks would have to say about how the specific wheels I found would effect the ride compared to stock, in theory or from experience. Side Note: The Fiero I'll be picking up has Intrax lowering springs which as I understand would make the ride a little stiffer too...
I realize that increasing the diameter of the wheels will cause the ride to be rougher given less sidewall. I have used the Fiero offset chart to make sure they'll fit. I don't exactly have a goal for the car other than to have fun with it, so I'm not trying to build it for autocross or as a drag car, just a fun weekend car, I suppose.

1. 17x7.5" All Round
Offset: +48mm
According to the offset chart I found, with the offset having the wheel pretty close to the spring perch I'm not sure how wide/tall a tire I'd realistically be able to have...i'll have to find the tire tool and figure this out soon.

2. Staggered 15x6.5" front 17x7.5" rear
Offset: +40mm
I'm not sure exactly the tire sizes for this one, i know i'd want a narrower front tire and wider rear. Perhaps, 205/55r15 in front and 235/45r17?

I know these are really different setups. I know there are some tools out there I can use to help with tire sizes, I just haven't taken the time to do the numbers, yet.

Cheers!

[This message has been edited by WaterInYuhDish (edited 09-03-2022).]

Patrick SEP 03, 01:41 AM

quote
Originally posted by WaterInYuhDish:

The Fiero I'll be picking up...



Is it so hard to mention the year? Yes, it makes a difference! The front hubs of the 88's stick out further.
WaterInYuhDish SEP 03, 02:57 AM

quote
Originally posted by Patrick:

Is it so hard to mention the year? Yes, it makes a difference! The front hubs of the 88's stick out further.



lol i meant to add that and as i was proof reading my post i forgot lol thanks
cvxjet SEP 03, 12:00 PM
I have an 85 w/ 88 rear subframe/suspension....I run 16 x 7 38 mm wheels all around, and then 205/55 and 225/55 tires. Basic concept is that your front tires are tight on the wheel for good steering feel and response, but the rears can be a bit wider for laying the power down but a little less reactive. I have done this on all of my cars (72 Comet GT, 1973 mach 1 and 99 F-bird Formula...Always worked really good for accel', braking and very importantly, handling.

The rear 17 x 7.5 wheels you are looking at could probably use some spacers- if you do, definitely install some longer studs.

[This message has been edited by cvxjet (edited 09-03-2022).]

Gall757 SEP 05, 06:41 PM
I would not consider any setup that has you using tires of 2 different profiles..the stock tire sizes were all 60 series, and using different wall sizes on the front and back will surely give you some handling surprises. Using all 55 or 45 series tires has been done successfully, but the ride gets harder as the tire profile decreases.