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I am looking to buy a set of wheels for my Mini Cooper. The wheels I really like are the XXR 531 in 17x8 with +25 offset. Does anyone have experience with this setup? Or any advice to send me in the right direction.
Last edited by Vinny Piechota; Dec 24, 2015 at 03:46 AM.
If the wheel you seek is 17x8" et25 then compared to OEM 17x7" et48 your new wheel will be 10.3mm further away from the inner suspension and poke out 35.7" more which is a lot.
Yeah the 531 is what I meant. I did go through that thread but didn't really see anything to specific to my option. But, it does seem like it is a bit extreme. I think im going to stick with 17x8 et35. I was doing some research and that seems like a safe bet. I want to have a semi agressive fitment.
The larger the offset number the more the wheel pokes outward. et35 will poke out 25mm which is workable, roughly one inch more than OEM.
If you run more negative camber you can tilt the wheel inward a little but you may wear the inner treads of the tire faster and handling will be less good if the rear camber is excessive (more negative than about -1.8 degrees).
Generally you want a tire size that fits perfectly, this is important if you want the best handling and performance, not just the wide "look". Each tire size is designed to work with a wheel width range, the tire sidewalls are built around the wheel width, too narrow or too wide and it stresses the tire more which can reduce handling, increase wear, and increase heat buildup.
For a 17x8" wheel you can still put on 215/45-17 but be careful for 225/45-17 which is a common size but runs taller than OEM tire diameter and may rub if you have an older R53. Personally the 225/45-17 looks too large for the MINI in proportion (oversized) and will give odometer and speedometer readings that will be slightly incorrect.
When buying wheels that have an aggressive offset like et25 you can't bring the wheel back inward whereas if you get a less aggressive offset like et35 you can still add a thin spacer to move the wheel outward to get a custom flush fit.
Aftermarket wheels are designed with offsets that will work with a variety of cars so that they can sell them as a generic fitment. Also be aware that the hub bore of the MINI is 56.1mm and that you will need a centering ring to put into the hub opening on the inner side of the wheel to fit the MINI hub snugly. Your wheel vendor can either provide a set of rings for you or you could purchase them, just ask. The rings come in aluminum (more expensive) or hard plastic (ok for street use but may heat up and melt if used on the track due to heavy braking).
