paul,

with regard to the price of 15" rims, you may want to check into the
possibility of vw steel wheels, since vw has begun to use the same 5 lug
pattern of the vans on most of the newer model year cars (including the new
beetle). rims typically cost about 70-80 bucks each from the dealer. not cheap
(esp for steel) but cheaper than 465.00. it may also become much easier to find
the 5 on 112 pattern on aftermarket pretty soon, not to mention the increased
possibility of finding something in the boneyard in the near future.

i don't know much about the necessary offsets, and if, say, jetta rims would be
more appropriate than golf rims, etc...(and i did hear that the centers may
neet to be enlarged at your local machine shop to accomodate the larger van
hub), but its food for thought. i'm definately making the move when it's time
to buy a new set of tires. looking forward to the better tire selection and
slightly lower highway rpms.

matt greenwell
87glwesty

Paul Borghese wrote:

> Hi everyone,
>
> I have been following the tire discussion and have been toying with the idea
> of buying new 15" rims since I need new tires anyway.  What is holding me
> back is the price of $465+ dollars for the set.  This is before you buy the
> tires, ouch!
>
> So what is the advantage of buying the larger rims?  I know it will make
> buying tires easier as there will be more of a selection.  Does it offer a
> more stable ride?  Will I notice the difference?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Paul