16" Wheels on a MK5 GTI

[Zayd]

Hello people,

I'm hopefully picking up a MK5 Gti in the next few days.  The only worrying think is that the current owner bought the car from a main dealer and had the standard 17" Monza's changed to 16" wheels with an offset of 6.5J.  Tyres size is 205/55 R16.  He said that the ride was too hard with the standard wheels

I'm a little worried that the tyre width is so small size it will damage the suspension, or will it be ok until I can get the proper wheels back on. 

[Rhyso]

Those are the correct sized tyres for 16 inch wheels and will cause no damage

Why for the love of god did the previous owner downsize?  makes it looks like a poverty spec Golf!!!

AlanD is selling his Monzas by the way 

[Zayd]

Tell me about it mate.  Its the only darn thing that's pissed me off about the car, but on the bright side I got a real good motor with a huge spec. 

I suppose the handling will be somewhat compromised due to the narrow tyre width.   I've just upgraded my Mk4 Gti, which I had for 7 years.  She served her master well and especially with the help of forum members like yourself!

[Rhyso]

I guess the small wheels will help with MPG 

MK5 is an excellent upgrade over the MK4 in terms of mechanicals 

Enjoy

[Zayd]

I've just confirmed that you could indeed spec the 16" wheels, when the car was being built.  Why one earth anyone would want to do this is beyond me, as the tyre width is only 205mm, whereas you get 225 with the 17" and 18" rims.

Surely you buy a GTI for good handling and grip and this will no doubt be affected with such skinny tyres!

[AlanD]

Thanks Rhyso.

I am indeed selling my wheels - http://www.gumtree.com/p/cars-vans-motorbikes/genuine-bbs-monza-2-17-vw-audi-seat-wheels/1031370711

They are a set of genuine BBS 17 Monzas with Goodyear Eagle F1 GSD tyres (note that 2 of they tyres are very low).

Yours for £250. Im based in Croydon for collection. Ive priced them low as I need to move them pretty fast. Ill also send a PM.