What kind of setup do u have? I'm thinking of 18x8.5 Axis Reverb all around with 245-40-18 or 245-45-18 tires.

 

Last winter, I found a set of OEM G35 19" Rays with 245-35-19 tires for really good price that I could not pass up. I always liked those wheels so I picked up a set for the Z. The tires were practically brand new so I will use them until it's time for new rubber. Going to a square setup has really been an improvement. I heard this from the track guys before but experiencing it myself has really gotten the point across. I am thinking of going with something like 265 all around next time. A little more contact patch from what I have now to improve traction without adding a lot of rotational inertia to the wheels. Seems like a good compromise.

 

Worst.Wheels.Ever.

 

looks like the birds aim was a little off. sshhplat!

 

I hate when people degrade the Z like that.

 

Yeah me to.. i wouldnt of bought the Z with the rims on it, but it was an amazing deal and the wheels were the only flaw.. Oh well ill change em ASAP

 

^^ If you do buy new wheels, consider this setup:

Front: 18x8.5” or greater-width wheels with at least 245/40-18” tires.

Rear: 19x9.5” or greater-width wheels with at least 275/35-19” tires.

And… go with at least a 22 offset.

This setup provides a great ride (i.e., comfortable) with exceptional handling for the Z, and it looks great.

--Spike

 

Spike,
do you have experience with this setup? I am just trying to gauge what my next configuration should be. I really like the square setup because of the handling characteristics.

 

I'd go with the 265 square set up you wanted. Spike's setup is safe.

 

Yeah but thats the thing. i wanna change the wheels without changing the tires and maybe just add some spacers. Any advice on this??

 

I run a square set-up (same off-set front/rear) with 245/40-18"f and 245-45-18"r with BFG KDW2 with stock springs/sway-bars/shocks. My driving impression is that the car has more response turn-in (less understear). Also, I removed approx. 7lbs of unsprung weight in the front and apporx. 3lbs less in the rear by changing the stock braks/calipers with a BBK and stock Ray "track" rims. This set-up may not be for everyone, howver, it fits my driving style.

 

Those wheels are ugly.

 

Holy hell, call the offset police!! I think the space saver spare has a better offset fitment then that. jk Yeah i think you may want better wheels for your baby. Her shoes are too small.

 

No Z deserves to have those on her. Chrome, ugly spoke design, horrible offset, probably weight a ton are all the reasons why they FAIL!! Id be looken for new wheels ASAP.

 

just wondering. Whats the largest size wheel could i fit with what offset with these current tires??

 

You have a lot of leeway on the rim width with 245/45-18”. You go with a width from 8” to 9.5”

The best offset depends upon what wheel width you select.

--Spike

 

Wow spike thanks again. youve been very helpful.

 

^^ No problem, and thanks for kind words.

Some other things to consider:

• 18” wheels and the tires that fit this wheel-size cost much less than a 19” wheel/tire setup. That’s something to consider if you are on a budget.
• 17” is a popular size for the track while 19” wheels are favored by people who want the esthetics of a larger-diameter wheel. 18” wheels are the best compromise (utility/performance vs. appearance).
• Your 245/45-18” tires are very versatile, allowing an all-square setup (even on a VDC equipped Z). Your tires will fit 18x8.5” wheels on the front, and 18x9.5” on the rear (if you want a staggered setup on at least the wheels), or just 18x8" wheels. You can still use your 245/45-18” tires with this staggered wheel setup. The rear tires will be stretched on the rear 9.5” width wheel, but that isn’t a bad look.
• If you go with 8.5” wheel width on the front and 9.5” wheel width on the back, and when you replace your current tires, consider front 245/40-18” and rear 275/40-18”. That is a safe size that provides exceptional handling with the Z.
• A safe offset for 9.5” wheels is 22 (18 or less is pushing it a little). On 8.5” width wheels, anything from 22 to 16 is a safe offset. And… a small offset with a more narrow wheel can impinge upon the needed space for brakes.

Note: This advice on offsets does not include any allowance for dropped suspension components which may require rolling rear fenders. You should also realize that the stock offset is 30.

Important Point: If you buy aftermarket wheels, your best source is a Vendor on my350z.com. Our Vendors know the Z and provide the best advice, products, and pricing.

--Spike