DeTomaso Mailing List: April 2001, Message #32

Hi All,
 The point of 18-20" wheel/tires is a relatively new subject here in the US.
For me coming from Europe this is at least a 5 year old point. The increase
to 20" first came about in DTM/BTCC Saloon (Sedan) racing as result of class
regulations. To achieve a larger surface contact area of rubber within wheel
width restrictions. And to allow the insertion of massive 15" brake rotors
offering vast increases in mechanical advantage. The third improvement is a
reduction in tire side wall height which reduces the car roll through rubber
movement.
The only benefit to Pantera owners  with street applications  is that they
look good. You will loose significant turning circle due to rubbing on the
bodywork. The ride will be very hard and tire wear a significant increase.
Should you then wish to fit 330mm or 350mm rotors the stress under braking
on the little old cast front spindles will be scary.  The ride height may
increase due to the extra rolling radius in order to not bring the bottom
Arms over the horizontal.
There is still very little 20" rubber developed for high performance use and
most of the current wheels are of the "chrome medallion" styles which are
not necessarily upto high G cornering.
18" is a good option there is a lot of development in both tires and wheels
thanks to GT racing. Just be careful; better modern rubber and brakes means
more load on a car which was not designed with such things in mind.
Should you crave the 20" thing Question; DO the F150/Navigator/Explorer
share the Mustang bolt pattern. If so there are many 20" wheel/ tires
options for  these which are of a strong design to carry the weight of the
intended vehicle with various off sets.

Dean Martin ( FBI's most wanted)