16 Inch Wheels Vs. 15 Inch Wheels
by Richard RoweUpdated August 09, 2023Wheel size is a hotly debated topic in both the street-custom and racing scenes. Within the confines of stock upgrades, few issues are so contentious as "upgrading" from stock 15-inch wheels to 16-inch models, and for good reason.
Aspect Ratio
Assuming that the tires used have the same diameter, 16-inch rims will shorten the distance from rim to tread, reducing the tire's sidewall height relative to its width (aspect ratio).
Handling
Reducing aspect ratio decreases the tire's propensity for flexing under hard cornering and is a well-known method to sharpen handling. Sixteen-inch rims are often offered as factory options for just this reason.
Tire Selection
Because 16-inch rims are largely obsolete, tire selection is very poor. This is the single biggest argument for 15-inch rims; it is very easy to find anything from off-road mud tires to road-racing slicks that fit.
Brake Clearance
If there is one good reason for 16-inch tires, it's that they may provide extra clearance for those who wish to run larger and more powerful brakes.
Alternatives
Modern 17-inch rims will provide the brake clearance and handling of 16s, but are almost as well supported by tire manufacturers as 15s.
Writer Bio
Richard Rowe has been writing professionally since 2007, specializing in automotive topics. He has worked as a tractor-trailer driver and mechanic, a rigger at a fire engine factory and as a race-car driver and builder. Rowe studied engineering, philosophy and American literature at Central Florida Community College.
