What are the benefits and drawbacks to changing the wheels on a 6MT coupe? Obviously there is the aspect of liking the looks of one set of wheels over the other, but other than asthetics.. are there any good reasons?

One could discuss the weight differences, but I doubt that is much of a factor. Getting more rubber under the car might be a factor. How does it affect things like fuel mileage for the NAV and VDC? Speedometer readings? Camber or toe issues?

I imagine I would go from the 18's that I have currently to 19's. What sort of measurements and offsets are you guys running on the 19's? Is tire selection better on the 19's than the 18's? What about things like winter tires? Are you guys able to find winter tires for the 19's or did you keep your older wheels for winter tires or perhaps ordered new less expensive and smaller wheels for winter tires?

What are some good manufacturers of wheels and what makes them better than some other manufacturer? You hear a lot about companies like iforged and such, what makes them so much better than some other company like say.. Axis or whatever? Are there any gotcha's I should look out for?

As you can tell, I am a bit on the fence as to whether I should change my wheels. So, I am looking for both positive and negative feedback about doing so. Also, if you could throw out ballpark figures for what your wheel/tire upgrade cost you, that would be helpful as well. Pictures of your favorite wheels on the G35 would be nice also to help me figure out what I like. By the way, I have a Diamond Graphite coupe.. so perhaps some of you have recommendations for what wheels look best with that coloring, like gun metal vs chrome vs titanium vs polished aluminum or whatever. I know a bunch of questions and all, but I appreciate all the help.

Thanks guys.

2003.5 DG G35 6MT Coupe

 

I went from the stock 18s to Nismos 18s. These wheels are wider (8.5", 25mm offset in front) 9.5", 30mm offset in back). I put Dunlop SP9000s on them in 245/45/18 and 275/45/18s. Car handles magnatudes better than it did. The understeer is greatly reduced. I just love the change. The wheels also look great IMO. I'm not a fan of 19s, due to the better handling of the 18s, and the danger of road damage due to the reduced sidewall height of the 19s. (I know I'll get flamed for this, but that's my opinion). I can get Nismos for $1799. plus $60. for shipping from a Nissan Dealer in the midwest. No Sales Tax. If interested PM me.

Lou

 

you have a picture of the nismo 18s on your car?

2003.5 DG G35 6MT Coupe

 

Yes - Here it is:

Lou



167799-IMG_0030.jpg

 

much appreciated. i assume your main reason for the change was to improve traction and handling by putting more rubber on the ground?

2003.5 DG G35 6MT Coupe

 

You really have 245/45/18 and 275/45/18? That's the wrong sizes. The sidewalls are too tall.

 

Oops, NO my tire sizes are 245/40/18 and 275/40/18. What a mistake that was. The tire ODs are the same as stock. Sorry.

Yes, my reason for changing was improved handling, and I realized that that in spades.

Lou