From what I gather, most people with sport package swap their wheels for winter driving. The default size seems to be 225/50/17's.

Has anyone considered buying two more stock front wheels and running 225/45/18's all around w/ sport snows?

It would be nice to keep the look of the OEM 18's during the winter. What would two OEM 18x8.5's cost?

Dean

 

Cost?

That depends on what type of wheel you are riding on. Got a style number?

Check out this website below for some ideas on pricing....they are pretty competitive.

http://bmw.autowebaccessories.com/store/bm...at1389_1477.php

 

I had the same exact debate with myself a few months ago and posted some questions. The bottom line for me was that, in the winter, safety and security had to come first, and so for a few months, I will deal with 17s. The more narrow tire will cut through the snow better, while at the same time the 50 will provide a bit more cushion and absorb the winter potholes a little better. On top of that, the wheels and tires are less expensive. Besides, IMHO the winter isn't the best time to show off your car's style. I understand the dilemma, though, so good luck.....

 

I run 225-45/18's on 123's for winter (same size as 124 fronts). I wanted to use the stock wheels to help justify something bigger for summer!

You could find a couple of OEM 124's fronts to go with your current fronts or there are some better quality (Italian) replica 124's being made.

 

Here you go for a single 124 front -- looks like a good deal!

ebay 124 wheel


Here are replicas from one of the better ebay dealers -- I think they would sell just 2 8" wheels to you.

replica

 

Your links didn't work for me.

Another question... I thought the stock 04 545 sport model wheels (124's) 18x8.5 & 18x9.5? Are these widths correct?

 

I believe they are 18x8 & 18x9
http://www.e60.net/information/options/wheels/style124/

 

i live in austria, and we do get regular snowfalls here. i have decided that, instead of going for 225 on 17" in winter, I would try 18" with 245. have tried this two winters and had no problems whatsoever. in fact, my friend who also has a e61 has opted for the same setup and he regularly goes skiing in the alps. honestly speaking, i feel much safer with the 245 18" than with the 195 15" i had on my c class - it just feels more stable. anyways, i have now opted for my new car to sell the 18" and go for 19" all around with the 245 wheels. i think expensive cars like ours "deserve" a good look all year around

 

I agree, to me, 50 series and up look like truck tires.

What is your favorite snow tire?

 

Are the italian replicas really better than OEM?