skinboy

Any reason to choose a 16" over a 17" where snow tires would be concerned? (such as more cushion room to protect against potholes) Anybody used Audi OEM 5-spokes?
Thanks!

ex-quattro PETE

for using a 16" is that a smaller diameter rim is usually also narrower, so you can safely put on a narrower tire (205 for example, vs. 225). Having a narrower tire improves the ability to cut through deep snow.

When choosing a smaller rim for your S4, you have to be extra careful to make sure it will clear your brakes. Not sure if the OEM 5-spoker will. I've got the 5-spoke replicas on mine, but my brakes are small (stock A4).

Big R

I would recommend the 16" tires. You'll be much happier in snow performance and you probably won't notice much at all in dry road driving. It seems that the only reason to stay w/ 17" is if you want to use your OEM rims for winter and buy better 17" rims for the summer. Not only will the 16" be safer in the winter, but you'll save $$ on both the tires and the rims as opposed to the 17" models.

CraigB

16" A4 5-spokes don't clear the S4 brakes, but 16" A6 2.7T wheels do

ex-quattro PETE

Thanks Craig! I didn't think they would.

skinboy

Thanks all--I appreciate the advice!

Eddie@Tirerack

Bit late in the season for you, but basically 16" will be less dry handling based than the 17", po it focuses more on basic performance and a bit less cost.

Going with 17" will have a better dry handling response and a better dry road feel. Snow perfromance generally about the same.

Feel free to call me & I can spec out your options between them!