Will Putting 17-inch Wheels on My VW Jetta Affect My Car Performance and Drive Ability? Starting from 16 Inches

When considering the upgrade from 16-inch to 17-inch wheels on a VW Jetta, there are several factors to consider, including the impact on your car's performance and driveability. The size of the wheel is not the only issue; it's crucial to ensure proper tire sizing to maintain the overall vehicle balance and height.

Understanding the Tire Size Transition

The transition from 16-inch to 17-inch wheels can be seamlessly handled if you install a tire with a lower profile. The lower profile tire will help retain the same overall height as the stock tire, ensuring a smoother ride and maintaining the car's aesthetic appeal. The tire size format is standardized with three key measurements:

The width in millimeters (mm) The aspect ratio (height) as a percentage of the width The rim diameter in inches

For instance, your current tires may be labeled as 215/60/16. Here's the breakdown:

215mm - the width of the tire 60% - the aspect ratio, which calculates to 129mm for height 16 inches - the rim diameter

The total tire height can be calculated as follows:

215 X .60 129mm (tire height) 406.4mm (top to bottom measurement of the tire) 664.4mm (total tire height)

For 17-inch wheels, a tire like 235/52/17 would be considered. The calculation is identical, with:

235mm - the width of the tire 52% - the aspect ratio, which calculates to 122.4mm for height 17 inches - the rim diameter

The total tire height would be:

235 X .5243 122.4mm (tire height) 406.4mm (top to bottom measurement of the tire) 666.8mm (total tire height)

The difference is only 2.4mm, which is minimal and virtually negligible. Getting your tire sizes as close as possible to the original will ensure a seamless transition and maintain the car's driving characteristics.

Effects on Performance and Driveability

While the overall difference in height is small, the wheels being heavier and the larger circumference can still impact vehicle performance and driveability. Larger wheels act like flywheels, absorbing more energy to get rolling, and can make acceleration a bit slower. Additionally, the larger wheels will increase the weight of the vehicle, even if it's distributed over the wheels themselves. This extra weight can affect fuel efficiency and maneuverability.

Moreover, the brakes may work harder to slow the car down due to the additional weight and larger braking surface. In Formula 1, the move from 13-inch to 18-inch wheels next year is expected to add about 2 seconds to each lap, underscoring the impact of such an upgrade on performance.

When deciding whether to upgrade to 17-inch wheels, it's important to consider factors like the specific tire you choose, as the quality of the tire can also affect overall performance. However, with careful selection and proper fitment, the transition can be smooth and beneficial without significantly impacting your VW Jetta's driveability and performance.

Conclusion

Upgrading from 16-inch to 17-inch wheels on a VW Jetta is possible, and with the right tire choices, it can enhance the vehicle's appearance and handling. However, be aware of the potential effects on performance and driveability, particularly regarding weight, acceleration, and braking. Careful planning and consultation with an expert can ensure that the upgrade meets your expectations without compromising the car's overall balance and performance.