need help w/ aftermarket wheels

[keith666]

Got my 1st nsx last (1995 nsx-t absolutely love it)!!! I just started w/ some simple mods(full comptech exhaust and tein coilover,looking to lower car about 1 inch or so, just for looks).Anyway I'm currently looking @ aftermarket wheels, I'm thinking of going 17x8-8.5 up front and 18x10 in the rear. Its not an everyday driver, but I don't want to lose to much sidewall and risk rim damage, nor do I want to screw-up the excellent handling characteristics of the car. I see a lot of people going 18 front and back. Anyone have info upside or down, and what about wheel offsets, what should I look for? Also, on another wheel note, does anyone know where I can get something similar in style to a Work Anhelios without spending a ton of money? Im not trying to find the lightest wheel on the market, but dont want rocks either, just like the looks.

Thanks to anyone that can help me.

 

[nsxtasy]

If I were you, I wouldn't go any bigger than 17" in front and 18" in the rear. Tire sizes are plentiful for that combination, but any bigger, and there aren't a lot of choices on the market. Also, you note (correctly) that reducing your sidewall height risks damage to the rims on potholes. You will already be reducing your sidewall height by half an inch over stock with these sizes, and I wouldn't go further. If anything, I would consider going with 16"/17" or 17"/17" if you're worried about damage.

Make sure you get tire sizes that maintain the same outer diameter as stock, so that your performance isn't reduced and so that your traction control continues to work properly. Lots of folks are using 215/40-17 in front, and 255/35-18 or 265/35-18 in back.

Congrats on the new car! Don't forget to join the NSX Club of America. Unfortunately, the national club's website is down at the moment. However, the Northeast Region is particularly active, and its website is up at http://www.nsxuppereast.com In addition to the four major NSX events held there each year, next year the national club event, NSXPO 2004, will be held at Watkins Glen.

[This message has been edited by nsxtasy (edited 06 February 2003).]