Wheels advice and ride height

[Ian_H]

Just got my A4 this week (2.0 SE TFSI), and I'm already thinking about making some changes.
First off I think the 16" wheels look too small for the car so I'm looking to fill the arches with something bigger.

I've been doing some reading of other threads on this forum and there seem to be quite a few strong opinions on this type of upgrade.

My initial feeling is to go from 16" to 18" with something like the this (should be a pic of new 18" Rs4 style wheel)
http://i4.ebayimg.com/04/i/000/a7/d1/b82b_2.JPG (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ih=010&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT&viewitem=&item=200128993528&rd=1&rd=1#ebayphotohosting)

These seem pretty good value at £500 inc tyres.

many people say this would compromise handling which I would expect to a degree - but there are some who say it makes the ride unacceptable which is odd given that Audi supply wheels of this size as an option - I guess it's personal preference.

Second question is lowering. Will having 18" wheel make any difference to the perceived ride height?

I've read going down 40mm is possible with Eibachs, so would be keen to hear from anyone who has done this already.

Thanks
Ian.

[Sam]

I don't have an Audi (Passat), I don't have 18" wheels (17") but I do have a drop of 35-40mm.

Ride height is certainly more harsh but it's more planted than before and any lower would be inconvenient.

The gap, to me, is perfect.

Pics are in my sig link for reference. There are some with it lowered on 15s and one (I think) of it lowered on 17s.

[nickynibbles]

The SE has softer higher suspension than an S-line so even with 18's on your'll have the same gap as you do know, just thinner tyres. The ride will be harder due to the thinner tyres but your still on SE suspension so unless your suffering from anything like arthritus or back problems then you'll be fine. Eibach springs will give you a 40mm drop so close the gap between tyre & car, in many peoples opinion this will give a much better look to the car, but will further add to the stiffness of the ride, but on the positive side you wont get sea sick going round bends!! Nice wheels though, im aiming to get a set of 19" of the same new RS4 on my 3.0 Quattro Sport a little later in the year & subject to the missus approval of the money being spent!!!!!

[Ian_H]

Just put new wheels on, and can now see I have to get the ride height sorted ASAP.

Main consideration at this time is warranty - is there a way to get this done cost effectively and maintain my warranty?

Anyone else with an SE - does this ride height look usual to you?
(see below)
http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/Ian.Hargreaves.2007/20070729AudiNewWheels/photo?authkey=SzVemT3VWJk#5092588810343167986

http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/Ian.Hargreaves.2007/20070729AudiNewWheels/photo?authkey=SzVemT3VWJk#5092588737328723922