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Asked: Nov 06, 2008 - 01:53 PM

Status: Closed

Why are tire rims in new cars so big?

Manufacturers continue to make tire rims of bigger diameter. It's now common to see new cars with 18"-20" rims. The mechanical disadvantages of this trend in every day cars far outweigh their benefits. Larger rim wheels mean less rubber on the road, harsher rides, and quick wearing tires.

In Car Accessories > Wheels
2 answers - 383 days ago

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tony78

Date: Nov 06, 2008
Time: 05:00 PM

Websters New Collegiate Dictionary :

See : Vanity.

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mr_shiftright

Date: Nov 06, 2008
Time: 05:06 PM

It's automotive jewelry. Also stylists like them because they fill up the wheel wells on the big SUVs and large sedans, but also lower the car's profile a bit.

But you are quite correct, they make the ride more harsh and definitely rob horsepower and increase braking distances.

To say nothing of beating the hell out of the expensive rims.

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