I've had so many problems with my new E300 in just the first 6 weeks, that the dealership is going to put me in a new one (that I can custom order).

I am considering getting the 20 inch all spoke wheels instead of the 18's that come stock, for aesthetic purposes only. However, I like a much smoother ride.

Will switching out the 18's for 20's make the ride much harsher/stiffer? I really don't want to be able to feel every bump in the road.

Thanks for any feedback!

 

Yes, it sure will make a difference to the ride - not so smooth. To maintain the same overall diameter the new tires will have to be lower profile - going from say 50R18 to 35R20. The ride will be worse, but the car's system should compensate for other effects. If you really value a smooth ride, get the smallest wheels recommended for your vehicle, with the highest profile! Higher profile tires have more sidewall flex which softens the ride more than can be compensated for by the car, which will already being doing its best!

 

What if I have enough clearance to get 20's and the same (sized sidewalls) tires? I've got 45R/18 now. What if they were 45R/20? Would that keep the ride the same?

 

Duly noted! Thanks

 

What did you end up going with?

 

I am still with 18's. I'm considering 19's, but the ride quality is quite important to me so... I will probably stay with these 18's.