I have a set of original '93 500E's 16x8 wheels with new 225x55x16 P6000 tires installed in my '93 400E (no rubbing problems after fender rolling). The handling of the car is great now, but I would like to: 1) lower it a little and 2)make the suspension a little stiffer. It's possible to do both, or just number 2 ?.
What's the offset for this wheels and tires?

First off, get rid of the tires. They are too tall. Go with 225/50/16.

OK, and after I get rid of the tires and install 50s, it's possible to do the changes?
Thanks for your help.

That car is plenty stiff. You don't want it any stiffer. As far as lowering goes, the new tires will drop it down .5" as it is. That is enough. Do anymore, and they will rub.

Also, for tire choice, go with Michelin Pilot HX MXM 225/50ZR16 (BMW OEM) for $138/each. Can't beat it.

These tires work great on this car. They aren't Pilot Sports, but they handle almost as well, and ride better.

Thanks for your reply.
Last question: Is the offset different than factory with this set of wheels and tires ?

Yes it is, but the extra width compensates for the much lower offset. Add an extra 1.5 inches to the offset and they should be near equal (around 49mm).

HX MXM's handle almost as well as Pilot Sports .... what?

A touring tire verses a Maximum performance tire ... wouldn't be much of a contest for handling.

Luke

------------------
Luke Pavlick
Performance Specialist (ASE Certified Master Tech)
Please, call me to place orders (800-428-8355 ext. 362)
or mention my name for on-line orders
(click banner at top of the page
to visit Tire Rack web site)

To me, the MXMs feel like a lot like the MXX3s, with a more compliant ride. I know you don't like the tire, but I think you underrate it a lot as well. I've had it on numerous cars, and haven't had anything overall as good yet. Pilot Sport MAY very well change that. The MXM has incredible lateral stability.

So now I'm a tire snob ...

I actually like the HX MXM very much but, I guess I need to explain myself a little bit better on some of my recommendations. The HX MXM is a great tire if your main criteria is ride quality but, if you are looking for performance they do come up a little short when compared to a performance tire and significantly short when compared to Maximum Performance tires like the Pilot Sports. The HX MXM is a Grand Touring tire that performs very well (and in some cases 1 of the best) when compared to other tires in it's class but, it is primarily designed for a quiet, smooth ride and maintains slightly above average handling ability.
Thanks, Luke


------------------
Luke Pavlick
Performance Specialist (ASE Certified Master Tech)
Please, call me to place orders (800-428-8355 ext. 362)
or mention my name for on-line orders
(click banner at top of the page
to visit Tire Rack web site)

[This message has been edited by Luke@tirerack (edited 07-05-2000).]

Hehe. :-)

I still think they perform much better than you give them credit for. You should drive on them again. They work incredibly on MBs.