A&Q about 350Z
Q:
I have a 2003 Touring (18") and was considering upgrading to the 19s" like on the 2006. My question being, can I just throw the tires and rims with similar dimensions on the '03 to make it have the same stance and spacing as the '06? Or is there some suspension adjusting involved? I'm worried that if I just put the wheels on the car, it'll raise it up. And I'm aware the '06 has 18s" up front.
Post Edited (Feb 13, 6:39pm)
A:
Very wise question.
My Nissan advisors caution that changing the ride height and/or stagger will affect the underbody airflow management that the factory has so carefully engineered to keep the 350Z firmly planted to the pavement at high speed. At the speeds most of us drive (under 100mph) this is not a huge problem, but even at supra highway speeds (70-90mph), changing the height and stagger will have some effect on stability and handling.
Just "throwing" tire/rim combinations on without considering the final ride height and stagger will probably not be an issue unless you frequently visit the high side of the "ton" in your driving. The main issues will be clearance and appearance.
Zeero
2005 Daytona Blue 350Z
A:
Hi, I have a 2004 Nissan 350 ZR. It's front OEM Bridgestone 225/45 18" tires were replaced by Nissan with the same.
Wanting to get to 'Michelin 4 around' eventually but not waste much, I installed two Mich. Pilot Sport AS's on the rear to co-exist with the front Potenza's for a little wear, and to be eventually replaced by 2 more Mich. at stock size (225 - 45 18" Front, 245 - 45 18" Rear).
I had a national tire and battery store install the rear tires. Now, 3 days later I find they put 255 - 45 18" on the rear, not the stock size I had ordered. Now that I have the 255 x 45's I kinda like them, but I don't know 1) If that size is compatable with the front stock-size tires or 2) Is it wise. If so should I proceed or is there another reason to NOT install the 255's such as the Nissan Warranty, aerodynamics, comfort, etc.
FYI, I also plan to install Hawk ceramic pads to cut down on brake dust.
Can you, Zeero, or anyone else Help? Thanks for any consideration.
-Bill (A novice Z'er.)