DeTomaso Mailing List: April 99, Message #211

At 15:54 04/06/99 -0400, ScruffyDi@aol.com wrote:
>Hi All,
>I must admit I've had my had out of the gears for a few years, but thought I 
>was keeping up on new car road tests, specs, as well as reading the classic 
>and hot rod mags, etc. I asked a few days ago about 15" tire sizes and did 
>get input from people and would like to thank them. Now that all is almost 
>said and done - it looks like the only practical thing to do is go with 16" 
>at least in the rear OR take Mike's advice as well as a couple of others and 
>stock up on any 15" tires that are around right now!! Unless I want that cat 
>to look like a go cart or a John Deere there ain't a heck of a big choice!!
>
>I'm gonna' have to get back into more reading and see why most of the 
>companies are making so many tires for 18, 19 and 20 inch wheels and slowly 
>discontinuing 15". I must live in a "wheel diameter challenged area."
>
>I did say I was going to publish a chart with input I got from people as to 
>recommendations for front / rear 15" wheel tire combos, but there isn't much 
>to chart. Everyone said pretty much the same thing and after searching on 
>line for tires, I agree. Forget about 15s or stock up on tires!! Thanks
again 
>- peace ~ Scruff


I remember long long ago, in a galaxy not too far away...

I wanted to put 17" wheels on my Mach I.  I couldn't find a wheel
practically to save my life.  And then, when it came to tires, there were
about three choices, across six manufacturers.  I thought this was kind of
odd, considering my dad had an Austin Healey (at one time) with 17" wheels
and tires, and he explained to me the stability of having larger wheels and
tires, vs smaller.  I figured the larger wheel would look "cool" on the car
as well.  No luck.  I ended up going with the 15" and buying tires off the
shelf at Goodyear.

AND NOW.... the trend has reversed... again.  So I guess at this point,
it's a good idea to start shopping around for the larger wheels and tires.
I can't help but think though, in 10 years time, will the pendulum swing
the other way again?  Will we be looking for 15" tires because the 17" ones
are no longer available?  Hmmmmmmmmm.

Maybe I'll just keep a couple different size's laying around.

Asa Jay
: )