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[3er]

So, I know I've already been quoted on my first thread stating that I wasn't going to start modding my car. Well, the mod bug found me again . Anyways, I'm currently looking at getting some matte black VMR v710s for my Space Grey Metallic 335i. However, I hoping to get your opinion on the route I should take. What would you do?

Option 1: Purchase 18" v710s and swap the TPMS sensors and stock tires from my current setup??
This would, obviously, be much cheaper in the short term since I wouldn't have to purchase new tires right away. However, I prefer the look of 19" wheels, but am not sure how much different they'd look versus 18" wheels. I also run the risk of having someone scratch up my M Sport wheels when they remove the original tires.


Option 2: Purchase 19" v710s, Michelin Pilot Super Sports, and new TPMS sensors?
I have to bring my car back with its original wheels and comparable run flats with at least 1/8” tread after my three-year lease is up. Because of this, my plan would be to monitor my tire’s tread height and, as soon as they have a bit more than 1/8” left, order a completely new setup. I’d also order new TPMS sensors so I could do a simple wheel swap (everything would be mounted and balanced prior to shipment). I’d then store the original M Sport wheels and Bridgestone Potenza RE050As (still mounted) in my garage and reinstall them when I bring the car back (three years).

Additional questions:
Are there any issues with the approach of Option 2? I’d imagine that three years isn’t too long to store tires. Is it okay to leave them mounted?

Thanks in advance...

[PaddyMcGrath]

Why do you need new TPMS sensors? I used the same TPMS sensors with my 19" wheels as I did with my OEM 17" wheels. They just need to be reset once the wheels are fitted.

I'd personally go with Option 2 as it seems to work out better for you in the long run plus you'll have 19" rims to sell when you return your car?

[3er]

The reason I'd buy new TPMS sensors is so I don't have to touch the stock OEM wheels when I pull them off (pull stock wheel off, put new wheel on ). Discount Tire scratched the outside of my rim the last time I was there and am a bit paranoid that the same thing will happen if I try salvaging the TPMS sensors. Plus, it's easier for me to sell an entire 19" wheel package than parting everything.

Yes, I do plan to sell the 19's when the car goes back. The same can be said for the 18" wheels, it's just more of a hassle with the tire and TPMS sensor swap.

[PaddyMcGrath]

Ah, I see the difference now - Pre-LCI E90s don't have TPMS sensors on the wheel, rather they have rotational sensors. I didn't realize this before so apologies!

I'd still go with 19s as you've said yourself you prefer the look, so if you go with 18s you'll only regret the decision every time you see another E90 with 19s!

[3er]

I think you're right - 19's it is . Hell, it won't even take long to get the RE050As down to 1/8" tread considering they only have a treadwear rating of 140! Ouch...the Super Sports have a treadwear rating of 300 and are a much better tire to begin with.

[ModBargains.com]

18" wheels will be lighter and will allow for for you to run a tire with a taller sidewall which gives the wheel a bit more cushion. 19" wheels do look best on the E9X body and is the most popular choice!

[Hooy]

Click sig, join group, intro yourself. We have 3 or 4 people with 710's and you can see 18" vs 19" for yourself

Since you're ordering a new setup anyway, just do it asap. It's pointless to wait for the stock rubber to wear down to an acceptable turn-in level. Might as well enjoy the 19's for as long as possible before having to give the car back. You'll be paying the same price either way, so why not do it right now...???

[3er]

@Alan (**********s): You know, I always hear that smaller rims (e.g., 18") will be lighter. However, if you gain the diameter back by taller sidewalls and choose light rims to begin with, I would imagine that the weight difference wouldn't be very substantial. What are your thoughts? I'm sure I could find the answer to my skepticism, but I'm lazy .

@Hooy: Request sent .

@FCobra94: Ha, you and I share similar logic! However, I'm trying to hold off for a few months since I just put down a down payment. On a side note, did you own an SVT Cobra at some point?

Originally Posted by 3er

On a side note, did you own an SVT Cobra at some point?

Yup! It's a '94 Cobra. Since it was my first car, I still have it. I've been using the username forever too and couldn't come up with a good one having to do with the E90 lol

Anyway, good luck with your wheel choice!