I have an '04 GT3 and would like to put 19" wheels and tires on it for street use only. I've tried getting quotes, but most are having problems coming up with the rear tire. I was planning on going back with OEM widths, 8 X 19 and 11 X 19. Apparently when I move to a 19" wheel, I will need 235/35-19 on the front and 305/25-19 on the back. One vendor told that Pirelli is the only manufacturer with a 305/25-19 tire in the Rosso model.

I'm certain I'm not the only person that has converted to 19" wheels. What have you done to avoid tire limitations? Do I need to go to a wider or narrower wheel? Can I use a slightly different tire size on the wheels?

Please advise me on what you have done. And I apologize if this has been a redundant question. I'm new and did a search with no luck.

Thanks!

 

suggest you pm Damon at TireRack (board sponsor)...he will know what profiles (circumferences) you need to avoid ABS problems as well...

here is his pm: https://www.6speedonline.com/forums/...o=newpm&u=2161

 

Thanks for the info. I sent Damon the question and hope to hear back soon. I had just sent this request to Tire Rack via e-mail, but knowing an individual with specific knowledge of our cars certainly helps.

Thank you!

 

I've noticed some posts concerning 19" wheels being lame. Is there a reason, or is it just looks? Would I be better off staying with OEM size so I can always find tires?

 

My GT3 came with 19" Champion wheels and Pirelli's. Every highway divider resulted in a crashing sound that felt like the car was bottoming out, plus the handling wasn't very confidence inspiring, even after an alignment. Oh, and there was a roar from the tires at highway speeds. I put a set of 18" Porsche RS wheels on the car. Bottoming noise stopped. Car handles great. Michelin Cup tires are quiet.

I've since been told these cars are very sensitive to suspension set up, and this appears to be the case. Not saying 19" won't work, but I'd rather not spend time sorting out a car.

 

Just stopped by a shop on the way home and they explained to me practically what you said due to the low profile tires. He claimed you don't get the benefit of the tire absorbing some of the shock and the roll-over of the sidewall in cornering. It's just rigid. So I guess I'll stay with a new set of 18's. Thanks for the advice. I just paid to replace a busted rim on my wife's car due to a pothole.