Just wondering if anyone is running wider wheels and tires up front? I am thinking about trying it. Given the advantage of running wider fronts and the difficulties of running wider rears on a stock body (with stock control arms), it seems like it could make sense to improve grip potential. I know that in theory you could achieve the same balance by making suspension adjustments and running a square set up (and then still be able to rotate tires front to rear), but wouldn't the car have more total grip potential with more rubber on the ground, even if the majority of the rubber is up front?

I just switched to an RS3 for a daily driver and it gave me the idea when I realized it runs 255s up front and 235s out back. I know this has been done before (Robi?) but I never hear about it any more.

Thanks!
Rich

 

Hey Rich

Isnt this a drivetrain mismatch in tire circumference?

Forget what the acceptable allowable is in circumference?

 

If you dig through some of the older autocross threads you might be able to find the previous discussion. If I recall correctly, one or two people tried different tire sizes but quickly abandoned it. There are a couple of staggered tire combos with similar ODs, but the grip difference is just too significant.

Staggered wheel sizes (e.g. 10.5 front and 10.0 rear) with the same tire size is doable. Although if you're not limited by rulesets, I'd rather just spend the money on the control arms to retain the ability to rotate tires.

How do you like the RS3? I was seriously eyeing the TTRS at my local Audi dealership, but fortunately someone else bought it before my willpower ran out. I really like the idea of the RS3 though.

 

I just got my RS3, so my opinion is a little green, but I love it. Best daily car I’ve ever had. Only regret is maybe I should have bought new to get the full warranty period. I would have bought a TT RS, but it’s sbout $10k more. I will definitely watch their depreciation curve. I’d love to move to a TT RS in a few years if I can find a good deal.