[Billfitz]

Yep. And Formula 1 used 13 inch until this year. The main reason stated why they've now gone to 18 inch is to allow larger rotors and pads for better braking. But it's also acknowledged that Pirelli wanted F1 tires to bear a closer resemblance to the tires that they sell to the public.

[Skyhigh]

Yes… Formula 1 reflects road driving. Same conditions, same priorities, same compromises, same suspension, same tires (especially the width)... Cars even look the same. Great reference point

[Shllshck]

Originally Posted by Gen13 F36

What I see is there is a lot of people here running 19" but with really low profile tires.

I run this

19x8.5 with 245/40
19x9.5 with 275/35

What I see alot is this

19x8.5 with 245/35
19x9.5 with 275/30

This is really smaller than the original 18x8 225/45 and 18x8.5 with 255/40

Thanks for sharing. I have factory 19s and run 225/40 front and 255/35 rear.

[MidtownMike]

Originally Posted by Shllshck

Thanks for sharing. I have factory 19s and run 225/40 front and 255/35 rear.

That is exactly the size that BMW intended on factory rims.
Don't believe the "bigger is better" boy racers.

[Tobz_au]

18’s all the way. The way I see it you out the smallest rim on a car that will clear the brakes.

Advantages are lighter wheels, less unsprung weight, less rotational mass etc etc.

Also the larger sidewall is a good thing as it deforms a bit and let’s you take more kerb on the track

[F32Fleet]

Originally Posted by AllaVodka

Is there any real benefit to how the car drives with 19" wheels over 18"? Not including aesthetics.

Room for BBK

[dís_f30]

Went from stock 18" to 19". Drives better, rides better and handles better

[HighlandPete]

Originally Posted by dís_f30

Went from stock 18" to 19". Drives better, rides better and handles better

I assume you have reasonable surfaces to drive on. Some of us drive where the compromises of bigger rims and lower tire profiles are very noticeable.

[MidtownMike]

Originally Posted by dís_f30

Went from stock 18" to 19". Drives better, rides better and handles better

If you went from heavyweight cast 18" to lightweight forged 19" that makes sense.
If like for like on the rims, then the perceived improvement may also come from the tires.
Don't take me wrong, I also rock a set of stock 19" 704Ms for the summer and I love the way they look wit the M sport brakes and the ride is more than acceptable. Wouldn't trade them for 18", however, my square winter set 18" 707 offers a more balanced ride.

Also, the 19" wheels make the stock (non-M) brakes for the 4-cilinders look tiny.