Joffroi

My 1972 Oldsmobile 442 W30 is in good driver quality and currently has a set of 14" SSII rims with 245/60/14 tires that are overdue on being replaced. My car originally came with SSI rims and given that is what they originally had out of the factory, I'd like to go back to that. I'd appreciate any recommendation on which route I should go for just having a good, budget friendly, comfortable ride and the best place to find the wheels/tires. My car does have front disk breaks.

One recommendation was going with American racing 15x7 rims with P245/60/15 Cooper Cobras. Tirerack has this set for $1,236.40. Are their major differences being ride style between the 14 vs 15s?

Thanks in advance!

don71

The major difference in 14" vs. 15" wheels/tires is better tire size selection in the 15". Personally, I feel no difference in ride quality.

I swapped two years ago, I'm not looking back.

joe_padavano

Ride quality is primarily a function of tire sidewall height. The sidewalls on 245/60-14s and 245/60-15s are EXACTLY the same height. There is a secondary effect in that larger diameter tires tend to roll over obstacles more easily.

Joffroi

is there any ride difference between 245 and 255? And what about 15x7 vs 15x8. (I don't know much about rims... can you tell? )

joe_padavano

Shorter sidewall flex less and thus ride more stiffly. A 255/60 has TALLER sidewalls than a 245/60 and will be less stiff. You tell me what you prefer - a comfortable ride or better handling. Soft, flexible sidewalls don't handle as well at the limit. Of course, in normal driving you won't feel a difference among any of them. The difference will be on a race track at the limits of the suspension. The jarring, uncomfortable ride from short sidewalls WILL be something you feel on the street, however.

Joffroi

Thanks for the info. I only drive it around town so a comfortable use there is what I'd be looking for

Koda

It's worth noting these old cars do not have a sport suspension by modern terms. Stock wheels, unless you are racing or touring, are fine. Joffroi, some SSIs with beauty rings (and they'll clear factory disc) are just what you need. I can see no difference in ride between my car with 225/70 14s and 225/70 15s. Both cars ride the same. The car's ride is affected a lot more by being a 72 GM than by having an inch taller tire. Get what visually appeals to you.

Joffroi

Got the rims and really happy with how they look. I'll have to take another shot with better lighting.

6BTbovy.jpg

cdrod

Joffroi:
Those rims & tires look really nice on your car. What did you end up with for tire sizes? Did you buy 245/60/15s?

Rodney

Joffroi

Yes I did, all the way around.