Granted, this is just a street report, but WOW do I like the feel of the 18" format on the 997S... I don't know if it's the tire or the sidewall, but I had gotten used to the jarring ride of the 19s (PS2 at minimum inflations of 33/39 on up to experiment with various pressures) and had forgotten how nice the 18s on my M3 rode (PS2s 245/275 and PSCs 4x265). Bedded in the pads to also heat cycle the tires and they felt great and will be even better when the tires are fully broken in. Now they go to sleep for a couple of days...

I'd always argued on the side of 18s for the 997 product line based on engineering, magazine articles (like Excellence), etc. and now I know for certain. 4k miles on the 19" format and I'll never go back...

The Fikse Profil 13s in 18x8.5 front are 19 lbs and 18x11 rear are 20 lbs. Extremely well made!

 

Yes. 18"s on the E46 M3 were a significant improvement over the 19"s wrto ride and handling. Lighter weight and larger sidewall: a big plus. Function over form. If you have a picture I would appreciate seeing the setup. Thanks

 

Interesting you say that - moving to 19's on my M3 improved turn-in and slightly reduced understeer with less sidewall flex.

 

I went to 18" BBS lightweight wheels Doug. Together w euro rotors this took about 30 lbs unsprung weight off car. Driving dynamics were much improved in all areas including turn in and responsiveness to throttle (no longer used Sport). I can see your point regarding sidewall flex but can't say I was ever aware of it.

 

thanks for the report Ron.. i hear what youre saying about jarring ride.

do you still have stock suspension? hmm now I'm thinking of going 18's

 

Stock PASM 997S suspension here... Euro rotors?!? I've been on waiting lists a couple of places for any 2-piece floating rotors that save weight -- what have you found Gpgli?

 

Gotcha. I can see where all of that would make a difference.

 

I would never change my 19" for anything!!!!
If I´m looking for good ride I buy a Mercedes AMG not a Porsche

 

Sorry for the confusion. I was referring to the M3 mods when I mentioned Euro rotors. There appear to be no easy (read reasonably priced) option for Porsche. At least I have found none to date.

 

What does this have to do with anything discussed in this thread? So you want a worse ride which equals worse performance from more expensive wheels and tires? That makes no sense...

 

Hey Ron, good to hear your report. Any pics of the wheels on the car yet?