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[ShoeDog]

BMW markets the E90's staggered tire sizing (225 front vs. 255 rear width for 330 ZHP) as a performance advantage. However, when I researched the topic of staggered tire sizing on this board I found that many track enthusiasts prefer the same size tires at all four corners in order to reduce understeer and allow for tire rotation.

With respect to the E90, has anyone eliminated the stagger when switching to aftermarket wheels? What was the effect on handling?

Background: I'm considering replacing the beautiful but bulky 162's with lighter wheels that are not staggered (OZ Ultraleggera's, 18x8). Without stagger, I'd be able to rotate tires and avoid the considerable cost premium of replacing the wider rear tires.

I trust that BMW saw some advantage to the E90's staggered setup - other than aesthetics and reduced liability for oversteer accidents by inexperienced drivers. Would anyone like to mount a defense for the E90's staggered tire setup? Cheers.

[db17k]

Originally Posted by ShoeDog

BMW markets the E90's staggered tire sizing (225 front vs. 255 rear width for 330 ZHP) as a performance advantage. However, when I researched the topic of staggered tire sizing on this board I found that many track enthusiasts prefer the same size tires at all four corners in order to reduce understeer and allow for tire rotation.

With respect to the E90, has anyone eliminated the stagger when switching to aftermarket wheels? What was the effect on handling?

Background: I'm considering replacing the beautiful but bulky 162's with lighter wheels that are not staggered (OZ Ultraleggera's, 18x8). Without stagger, I'd be able to rotate tires and avoid the considerable cost premium of replacing the wider rear tires.

I trust that BMW saw some advantage to the E90's staggered setup - other than aesthetics and reduced liability for oversteer accidents by inexperienced drivers. Would anyone like to mount a defense for the E90's staggered tire setup? Cheers.

You may be correct! but it won't look half as sexy as staggered wheels!

[Matt_UKTX]

If you use spacers, I don't think staggering makes much of a difference at all. It's an extra inch that is under the fender. Unless you spend hours looking at the back of your car, I bet you will bearly notice

As for performance, the stock 330 has 17x8 all the way around, but the sport package is staggered. When I drove both of them I didn't really notice much of a difference, and they have different suspension, wheel size, etc. So, I doubt you'll notice much by losing an inch off your back tires.

Hope this helps...