[net.auto] What Wheels for Honda Civic?

geoff@denelvx.UUCP (Geoff Baum) (06/06/85)

I have several questions about wheels and tires for my 1980 Honda Civic
(front wheel drive).  Please respond by mail unless your comments would be
of general interest.  I will post a summary of your answers.

I have been considering the following brands of wheels:

	ATS	BBS	BWA	Centra	Enkei	Momo
	MSW	Panasport	Rial	Ronal	Weds

I don't want to pay more than about $100 per wheel, and am partial to gold
or black mesh designs although I may get something else.  I am planning to
put either 175/50-13 or 185/60-13 tires on these wheels.  The car's
suspension is already EXTREMELY stiff since I have added sway bars and Tokico
(Kontrolle) gas struts.

1.	Is there really much difference in quality among the different
	wheels I have been considering?  Which brands/models would be best?

2.	Many of these wheels are available in either a 5.5" or 6" width.
	What affect will this have on ride, handling, etc?

3.	Some wheels are lighter than others.  What affect will a lighter
	wheel have on handling, ride, etc?  Which of these wheels are the
	lightest?

4.	How much difference will I notice between 185/60-13 and 175/70-13
	tires as far as harshness of ride is concerned?  The car presently
	rides on 155-12 (yes, really) Michelin XZX tires.  I don't want to
	make the ride feel any worse than it does now.

7.	Any comments on tires to go with these wheels?

6.	Any other comments (especially concerning wheel and/or tire
	selection)?