OEM - 17x7.5 225/45/17 front
17x8.5 245/40/17 rear

what i want to go with is:

17x8.5 235/45/17 front
17x9.5 265/40/17 rear

i am leaning toward HRE 543 wheels and Potenza S-02 Pole Position tires. For the front should i go with a 17x8 on the 17x8.5 and the tire size 235/40/17 ? need help please.
thanks,
J.D.

JDV,

After a lot of research, here is the set I am running on my 55:

HRE 549, my 55 was the first CLK fitment by HRE.

Front: Wheels: 18 x 8.5
Tires: 235/40 18 Pilot Sports

Rear: Wheels: 18 x 9.5
Tires: 265/35 18 Pilot Sports

They fit beautifully, see my photos in Hot Rods..My CLK 55...

First I can't imagine why you would go to the expense of HRE's and Pilot Sports and not Plus size to 18" wheels, in my humble opinion you would be wasting your money.

I just don't think you will see nearly the performance gains out of the 17" for almost the same amount of money.
If ride confort is a big concern...I did not notice any significant change in the switch from 17" Pilot SX to the 18" Pilot Sport.

I can't say enough positive things about this set up...and even though I have yet to track the car...I have done a number high speed runs and it handles beautifully.
I have found a dramatic improvement in both traction and steering balance from the stock set up.
I drove about 1000 miles on the stock combo and now have 1500 on the new.

Hope this helps.

p.s. I think the HRE is a fabulous wheel...super light, super strong...any of their styles...well worth the money...but be sure and get locking lug nuts!

p.s.s. Just don't expect much out of the Pilot Sport below 40 degrees...they turn to rocks.

[Edited by jco on 01-19-2001 at 10:21 AM]

Thanks JCO that help me make up my mind and go for the 18".

You will not be disappointed...love to see pics when it's done.