I am trying to give my 2005 MCS a mild st. racer look. I like the look of the stock rims but would like them black. I have notice that most race car have 16" rims on them, is there a reson for this, just would like to know why

 

The race MINIs I've seen used 15" wheels.

Smaller wheels are lighter, and lighter wheels are an advantage. On the other hand race cars will want bigger brakes, and you need bigger wheels to fit. Larger wheels give you lower profile tires, which are an advantage. Take you pick and optimise the performance.

 

want 'em black? Neighbor of mine just sprayed his with black plasti-coat and I'm impressed with how they come out. Dunno how long it lasts but is is 'easy' to redo too.

race cars have 16" .... before I go into a long dissertation concerning geometry and physics I should ask are you looking larger or smaller or just wondering?

My 79 has 10's while my 02 had 17's

 

I like the look of my stock ones, but everyone say go 17 or 18 for low profile. I think I can get a low profile tire for my 16's. Just wandering

 

I think the main problem with a low profile tire on 16's is that your wheel gap is going to be ridiculous. Especially if you're not lowered. Of course if you lower it, you can go pretty low.

 

Depending on the class........17 inch and larger are not allowed.

 

I plan on lowering the car about 1.5 " all the way around so I think it will look ok. Also I am putting on a 22 MM rear bar. But it sounds like there is not a reason why I can't use the 16's if i want.

 

I'm lowered on H&R springs, roughly the same drop you'll be at. These are Bridgestone G019 Grids @205/50/16.

 

Thanks everyone, great response. I am going to use my shock 16's (blacked)