W124 wheel upgrade
 

My 91 300E is about to hit 65K and I want to upgrade to 16 or 17" wheels.
Does anyone know the stock offset and have opinions on which size wheel and tire to go with. I don't want a decrease in ground clearance or a ride that is noticably punishing as it is just now in keeping with the character of the car, however a bit stiffer and less body roll is greatly appreciated...

I am in Hawaii and do not need all season tires.

thanks,

Maui

Luke at the Tire Rack will be able to answer all your questions. Give him a call.

Your off set should be 49mm on the original wheels.

Take a look at this link. Slight difference in reference model numbers but looks pretty complete.

http://www.alloywheelsdirect.net/information/fitting_chart/mercedes-benz


glenmore
1991 300CE
2000 C280
1990 LS400

I'm sporting 17" rims on my 93 300E. I kept the stock width and profile with 40-series profile tires. Tire dealer originally opted for 45-series, but they rubbed when cornering and hitting bumps.

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a1...z/IMG_0407.jpg

I haven't noticed a big difference in ride quality, but you do have to be extra careful around curbs...you can really trash rims!!

Also be prepared to replace tires every 18 months. Most low-profile offerings are a sticky compound, and won't get you 50K miles of use.

Note: My car has the stock ride height...

Rear wheel clearance:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a1...z/IMG_0409.jpg


Front wheel clearance:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a1...z/IMG_0408.jpg

stock 15s to 16s
 

I replaced the stock 8-hole 15 inchers with a set of 16 inchers from an 2000 C-Class Sport. Simple plus-one upgrade, ride is better I think and the turn-in steering feel is much improved.