Performance Threshold for 15" Wheels?

[Xphile11984]

Hey everyone! I was curious what the opinions were on engine/wheel combos when it comes to 15" rims? I, personally, really like the vintage look of those 15s, but i have to assume that at some point you're limited to their footprint/tire options?

Is anyone running 450+ HP/Torque on 15" wheels? If so, happy with street performance? Recommendations to move to 17s?

Thanks!

[Raceral]

Just wondering what your high performance driving skills are

[Xphile11984]

Let's say 'some' but it may also be driven by someone with 'none.'

Basically I'm considering a stroked 347/427, nothing too crazy, but curious if the aesthetic should limit what's dropped in or vice versa... Or am i overthinking this?

Yes, i'm aware of limited brake options, tire availability, etc.

Thanks!

[BEAR-AvHistory]

I prefer the lower aspect ratio of the 17" for stability.

[CraigS]

I'd go w/ the tires you like. And then work on the throttle linkage to have a nice long travel to make throttle control easier. Living w/ a lot of power is more about proper control than it is about setting an arbitrary limit.

[David Hodgkins]

It would help to know what kind of car you want to build; a cruiser/occasional weekend tracker, autocross beast, drag monster, etc. to give you recommendations on suspension options in addition to wheel options.

In MOST scenarios with big HP, if your goal is the highest performance then that's bigger wheels and brakes. It depends on the type of car you are building.

:)

[Johnnymike]

Hey 11984

I have had a Factory Five with 15" Billboard's and a 427FE for a couple of years.
I did not get the billboards for performance I wanted the look and have no regrets.
I don't drive the car hard at all but the tires only squirm slightly in second gear under acceleration on good concrete pavement.
JMS

[xxguitarist]

275/35/15 Hoosier A7s don't seem to hold back the autocross cars that run them :)

I do imagine you're looking for a taller tire for gearing, though.

[Todd Buttrick]

I've been running 15" wheels for +100,000 miles mostly because I love the look and softer ride. I don't race but spirited driving on back roads now and again. I've rarely pushed the limits of this car but traction has never been an issue with 500fwhp.

[CraigS]

These have gotten good reviews. 26x10 front and 26x12 rear
http://www.mickeythompsontires.com/street.php?item=SportsmanSR

[JL1958]

What tire are you running? I have found very few 15" options.
I drive moderately on the street only with an occasional spirited 0-60 blast. No track driving.

[Garry Bopp]

JL,

Don't know if you've heard, but I sold my Unique. I had Firestone Indy 500 tires on it and was happy with them ... only street driving/cruising.

Garry