When spacers are added to the wheels, does that affect the handling, comfort, performance or safety of the car?
Also, there are different offsets sizes out there, does the size of the spacers make a difference on the above issue too?
The reason I'm asking is because I'm planning to put my HRE 545 rims from my old e46 coupe to the e60 and I'm pretty sure I'll need spacers for them. The size of the tire is 225/40/18 for the front and 255/35/18 for the back. I'm just thinking if I should do that.

 

If you had a non-xi and these are m3 rims, than I would have said that you would need at least 20mm spacers up front along with longer wheel bolts. I would recommend against this, but the rear has similar offsets so you should be okay. Alas you have an xi model so this changes everything.

Don't have my figures up to date, but if the xi has a 43mm offset around, and these wheels are from a regular e46 with +40mm offset around, then I think you might be okay without any spacers needed.

But if these are m3 rims then the rear would have an offset of +24, then you would have to majorly roll your fenders to not experience rubbing.

 

The rims were on a e46 330ci before and I've no idea what the offset on the wheels are. Has anyone else trrying to do this too?
BTW, heezy545i, thanks for your info.

 

The offsets of an E46 and E60 are to great to use those wheels on our car. First , the tires are too narrow for 18 inc rims and do not match bmw specs not to say the diameter may be off too. Using Spacers on the rear will not affect your car, actually it may improve it a bit since the wheels will be spaced out more.BUT using spacers in the front may cause problems as wheel vibrations, additional stress on the front suspension, uneven tire wear ,etc. I have been told many many times to not put spacers on the front because of those reasons. Better off selling those rims and getting new ones that are made for your car..and 18s are too small for an E60 .... my 2cents

 

I'm currently using 20mm spacers in the front along longer bolts.
reason being i have e46 m3 wheels. ONly the fronts needed spacers to work. Back is fine.
I havent noticed any change in my ride up to each his own. It is all a matter of who you talk to. Ive researched this for days prior to doing it and came up with the same conclusion time and time again
its all a matter of pefererence.
my 2cents

 

So you can't feel any difference after the spacers are installed? The main concern I have is safety. eg. handling and control.