Frenetic

I own a 2006 RL with the stock 17 inch tires.

I'm seriously contemplating upsizing my rims to the "stock-size" 18 inch rims just to get better tire choices.

The question I have is what are the diameter differences between the 245:50 17 and the 245:45 18 tires?

Also: were there any "stock" suspension differences between my model RL with 17 inch rims versus those with 18 inch rims? In other words, did the stock RL with 18 inch rims come with a lower-sprung suspension?

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

you can always compare rolling diameter with an online calculator.

https://www.1010tires.com/Tools/Tire-Size-Calculator

input stock RL's tire size
then pick and play with 18 inch sizes.

it will tell you if you're okay, or if you need to pick out a different tire size

oo7spy

What do you mean "stock RL with 18""? Are you talking about the Aspec wheels? There are a number of Aspec accessories, wheels, suspension, lip kit, steering wheel, knob, and badge. Some or all of them could be added from the factory.

Frenetic

I was just curious how much more or less of a fender gap there might be if I switched, without touching the suspension.

Yeah, I forgot the only 18 inch in my body style was the A-spec. I guess it wasn't until the mid-cycle refresh did they start to offer it as a standard size? Or maybe just a more standard/pedestrian option?

In any case, I really don't want to lower the car, but I didn't want to increase that gap anymore than it already is.

However, just out if curiosity, the A-spec is one inch lower all around? Non-oem lowering springs are more like 1.5 inch?

oo7spy

Aspec is a little less than an inch. Spec'ed at 0.75". H&R are spec'ed at 1.5". After 2009, 18" was the only factory wheel size available.

Honestly, if you go with 245/45/18, the difference in fender gap is negligible. I would venture to say the 1/4" between new tires and worn tires would have more of an effect.

Frenetic

Thanks.

0.75 inches isn't too bad. Getting too old to drive around a slammed car.

I take it the A-Spec springs are rather expensive compared to the HR?

Ballinger

The A-Spec spring/strut kits are super hard to find these days, but they don't slam the car at all -- it's a slight lowering and a more-controlled damping and spring rate. With 18" wheels, the fender gap is less than OEM-non-ASPEC and the ride is a little firmer.

I think switching to 18" rims and tires is a great upgrade that you'll enjoy, regardless of suspension mods.

M T L T L

245 45 18s will increase the overall diametre by 9/tenths of a millimeter. You will see absolutely no difference in tire/fender gap. The Aspec shocks are discontinued. I have a set of Aspec springs for sell cheaper than H&Rs if you are interested.