19's necessary?

[A6sense]

The 19" question
Hi there, this is probably a question that has been asked many times over, but couldn't seem to find it

So I have an A3 with 18's (tyres are 225 40 18) I've had 18's on most cars I've owned.

I'm looking to switch to a C6 A6 S line 2007 or 2008 and I'm toying with the idea of exploring the world of 19's.

My questions are:

Should I go for the OEM tyre size 255 35 19 or can I opt for larger ratio say 40? Any reasons for or against?

Will the wife and kids notice the size difference I.e ride quality. Is there a recommended tyre size to minimise this?

Is there added risk of rubbing on those Sunday dump trips or trips to France with the boot full of luggage and bikes on the roof.

Anything I need to consider when buying 19's or simply buy and put em on as it'll all be fine and won't notice the difference?

Any advice, opinions or stories greatly apppreciated to help decide if 19 or 18 is best practically.

[c4a5er]

I didn't find the 19" on my A6 any more crashy than the 18" I had on my previous A4...Both were S-lines.

[A6sense]

I didn't find the 19" on my A6 any more crashy than the 18" I had on my previous A4...Both were S-lines.

Thanks that's pleasing to know. Where you on the 255 35 19's?

[c4a5er]

Yes 8.5j x 19 wheels with original Conti sport contacts 255/35 ZR 19 96Y then changed to Barum Bravuris

[MarkTM]

I drive an SE and am happy to stay on 18" rims, but did move up to 245/45/18 and now my speedo reads correctly!

[Guest 2]

Don't alter the tyre size.

Test drive a car with 19s and S-Line suspension as you may not like the lack of sidewall which affects the ride!!

And don't forget the price and they'll chew through cheap rubber!

[EssexGonzo]

If you're after a personal opinion.......go for 18s. I regularly ride in one with 19s which has the effect of making think I made the right choice with 18s .

This is a luxury car not a sports car and the obsession with ever larger wheels is a mystery to me.

And while I'm at it......the C7 Black Edition. 20" wheels on a 5m, 2 tonne luxury car with a 2 litre diesel engine in most cases. Ridiculous.

IMHO by the way.

[MarkTM]

^^^Totally agree, esp on an estate, once again IMO

[A6sense]

Don't alter the tyre size.

Test drive a car with 19s and S-Line suspension as you may not like the lack of sidewall which affects the ride!!

And don't forget the price and they'll chew through cheap rubber!

Thanks for the responses. A test drive was defo on the to do list. I'm thinking however that most cars I try will be the 255/35 set up so wanted some opinions on trying 40's

Re cheap rubber I must say I usually opt for budget but I guess what we are saying is best to stick to brands I've actually heard of to avoid regular trips to the shop

[A6sense]

If you're after a personal opinion.......go for 18s. I regularly ride in one with 19s which has the effect of making think I made the right choice with 18s .

This is a luxury car not a sports car and the obsession with ever larger wheels is a mystery to me.

And while I'm at it......the C7 Black Edition. 20" wheels on a 5m, 2 tonne luxury car with a 2 litre diesel engine in most cases. Ridiculous.

IMHO by the way.

And this was the reason for putting this question up to get some honest opinions and with this type of investment I'd prefer to make an informed decision rather then just buy and hope.

Good point well made. Thanks. Food for thought