Tires and Wheels 01 530i

What tires and wheels should I get for performance for an 01 530i? It does not have sport package (premium only) and is currently running 16x7 inch wheels with P225/55HR16 all season. Looking for factory wheels, does going to +16 inch make a big difference in performance ride quality?

Going from 16 to 17 inch wheels should not affect your ride quality much. You might consider chaing to 235/45-17 all around; this is the OEM size for the 530 sport package. This size provides good performance, better looks, should not be too expensive and allows you to rotate tires for longer life.

Of course, for wheels and tires, opions vary widely and the sky's the limit...

The M style 37 is one of the best looking wheels for an E39. I believe you can get replicas in 8"x17" (OEM were 18"), with 235/45x17 tires.

Hey thanks that seems to be the simple answer and what I am looking for. Any insights on a good place to purchase quality used wheels? I can handle the tires locally.

keep checking the classifieds here and consider posting a WTB ad (wanted to buy). You may also consider a more sporty suspension in the future as well as replacing the rear anti-sway bar with an M5 sway bar. Is your 530 manual or auto?

Originally Posted by WAM

The M style 37 is one of the best looking wheels for an E39. I believe you can get replicas in 8"x17" (OEM were 18"), with 235/45x17 tires.

What's the quality on those replicas? I've heard mixed things...have u had any experience with them...if so, who did u go thru?

It is an automatic. I did not realize original wheels were so expensive. I may have to save of for this.

Originally Posted by eyeopener

keep checking the classifieds here and consider posting a WTB ad (wanted to buy). You may also consider a more sporty suspension in the future as well as replacing the rear anti-sway bar with an M5 sway bar. Is your 530 manual or auto?

Originally Posted by desiguy

What's the quality on those replicas? I've heard mixed things...have u had any experience with them...if so, who did u go thru?

I do not have any experience with purchasing replicas although there seems to be alot of choices and are far less expensive than factory. Probably like anything else, you tend to get what you pay for. I am sure with a very reputable and knowledgable accsory parts store they could lead you in the right direction.

Regarding replica wheels, I have no experience with them myself. Some people on the msg boards report they are fine, others say they are poorer quality.

Originally Posted by bmaverick

What tires and wheels should I get for performance for an 01 530i? It does not have sport package (premium only) and is currently running 16x7 inch wheels with P225/55HR16 all season. Looking for factory wheels, does going to +16 inch make a big difference in performance ride quality?

I'm a little late to answer but I was exploring this exact same paraellel wheel style 37. I've seen the replicas on e-bay. Go to e-bay's web site. Click on e-bay motors. Go to parts and accessories. Go to wheels and accessories. Type in "BMW wheels" and start your search. There is a company somewhere in Florida that distributes these. I called them and got details of the specs, country of origin, etc. I would have bought them but I decided to bite the bullet and buy a different look for some BMW wheels. You could always resell them back on e-bay if you have problems. Good luck.