15" verses 17" rims/tires

cobrak · #1 (**permalink**) 07-10-2007, 05:33 AM

I owned #266 with 15"rims/tires and was happy. I now have #565 on order and am trying to decide on the rims/tires. I like the look of the bulky 15" tires, but the rims are a two piece with the hub being cast and having a cast (rough) look to them. The 17' rims are pin drive one piece rims with a nicely painted hub and of course a lot better tires, of course you do pay for this upgrade. So I think the 17" rims are bettter since they are one piece and the finish on them is nicer but I prefer the look of a smaller rim with a bulky tire. I am also concerned about a rougher ride with the 17" rim/tire combo. Is there any down side to the pin drives? I saw a late #'d BDR recently with the 17" set up, and the tire stuck out past the rear fender flares. Is there a danger of the tire scuffing the body? My last car had 430HP, my new one will have 520 Hp, is it a waste to get this much HP and not get the better tires on the 17"rims.

Your opinions please....

CobraK

Commodore · #2 (**permalink**) 07-10-2007, 07:19 AM

My personal taste would dictate the 15" set up (vintage looking car on vintage looking wheels and tires). If the wheels extend beyond the fender lip someone didn't pay attention to backspacing. We've all heard that you can never have too much power but then there is the real world. If you use your Cobra on a regular basis on the street rather then the track a period correct looking small block with 300 HP is plenty. If you decide to join the FE camp, a well dressed 390 has the look (also much more affordable to build and maintain than my FE 427). Either conservative set up will stick you nicely into the seat. Were I to do another Cobra I'll keep the memories of my FE 427 dual 4 bbl car for bench racing and go with something a bit less exotic. Sideways in the first two gears is more than enough for me. I must have gotten old all of a sudden?
RB
RB

SPF1061 · #3 (**permalink**) 07-10-2007, 07:21 AM

The Avon CR6ZZ tires are available in 15" Cobra sizes. They will mainatin the classic look and will perform as well or better than any 17" tire on the market. This of course doesn't address your questions about the quality and look of the Backdraft 15 vs 17 wheels.

Bailey · #4 (**permalink**) 07-10-2007, 08:28 AM

17s all the way. Also you are not limited to brake rotor diameter when you decide to upgrade.

Cashburn · #5 (**permalink**) 07-10-2007, 09:54 AM

On a "Cobra" this color:

Should you worry about an "original look" or style?

cobrak · #6 (**permalink**) 07-10-2007, 10:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cashburn

On a "Cobra" this color:

Should you worry about an "original look" or style?

They only made about 27 original 427S/C cobras and at least one of those were purchased by Gulf and they were a similar orange color.

rocket7171 · #7 (**permalink**) 07-10-2007, 11:00 AM

I have 17" rims. I think they make the car. If you like the sport look go with the 17" rims. If the stock look is for you stay with the 15" rims. If I could I would get a chromed set like Vintage had on their show car. There is no better look. The balance is tough on 17" wheels but if you are looking for a smooth ride buy a different car. The differance in ride from 15 to 17 can't be much. options for 17" is much better for tires. Get what you want and don't cheap out. Rims make the car. You'll regret it later if you don't.

Check out http://www.tirerack.com. Sumitomo HTRZ 315/35/17 ZR (Not drag radials) Testing these out.

tom

DavidinDurango · #8 (**permalink**) 07-10-2007, 01:06 PM

IMO:

15s for a vintage look.

17s have room for brakes, more choices for performance tires.

JUS BIT · #9 (**permalink**) 07-10-2007, 08:47 PM

CobraK, I honestly believe it's personal opinion. There's some pluses and minus for both. But I can tell you that I prefer the 17" wheels.

One thing no one mentioned is that it is often difficult to get the 15" wheels centered just right when reinstalling the lugs, therefore causing wheel vibrations. As far as I have seen, the knock offs have not had this problem.

Also, my 315s are just under the fenders. They seem to fit very well on the car. Finally, I race and I would much more prefer to race with 17 harder side walls. For the street, it's up to you.

By the way, love the color!

James

uncltodd · #10 (**permalink**) 07-11-2007, 12:50 PM

Brudda, which colour is prettier, red or blue?

I'm running 17" Boyd Smoothies with sticky Nitto's.

I bought the car to drive, I'm no purist.

If you are into burnouts, go with the 15's and BFG's or Goodyears.

My ride just squats on her butt and grabs asphalt.

Dual roll bars give a certain symmetry to the little girl.