Ok, so I read all the offset threads and think I got the basics of it. The point is to get as close to stock to not sacrifice performance. So now that I’ve looked my question is which of the following wheels would be closest to stock. I plan on using my stock tires.



18X7.5 with an offset of 43, 45 or 48

18X8 with an offset of 35 or 38

18X8.5 with an offset of 35 or 40



Thanks

Bob

 

Are you asking closest in offset? If so, as 18x8 50mm is stock.... 18x7.5 48mm then 45mm.
If closest in width to stock... 18x8, but offset is off. If best compromise I would say 18x7.5 45mm.

But why would you do any of these? Looks only?... that's expensive. Any performance dif from stock is minor/negative and some of the low offsets are not very good for suspension geometry.

 

I was asking for both. All the rims I search that are 18x8 have offsets on 35 or 38. I can't find anything above 40 unless I go with an 18X7.5 and didn't know how the stock tires would fit on them.

 

If you wanted to go stock offset, but max width then the size to run would be a 10" +50 offset wheel on all four corners. That is what I will be doing. You can run 285/30/18 on all four corners if you so desire. It just depends on whether or not you're into increasing your wheel track at all with the thinner width wheels.

Rishie

 

Thanks. Not really looking to increase the width as I am keeping my stock tires. I just didn't want to screw up the handling of the car that much. I don't track it and pretty much drive normal. I keep hearing that if the offset is to low performance can take a hit.

Thanks
Bob

 

If you just want a change in wheels, more or less stock parameters, perhaps you just need to look more for specs closer to stock wheels. They're out there. The problem is once you find them, do you like the look, as it appears that's the goal, yes? Otherwise you have to bend on specs to get the look you want.

And don't forget weight, that'll have at least as much (good/bad) effect on the car as the offset. It's a challenge, that's why I gave up and kept the stock wheels until this year and finally went to 18x9.5 45mm.

Lastly make sure they fit our calipers. Not all spokes are the same and may cause clearance issues if they haven't been tested

FYI here are some decent wheels that will work on an RX-8. Brian says so http://www.good-win-racing.com/mazda...Alloy%20Wheels

Good luck.