[Mk2] [NA] 8.5" rims on front suspension

[richard cash]

Is it possible to get 8.5" rims onto the front of an MR2 assuming the tyre size is suitable. Im thinking specifically of ultralite ones (think the offset would be 35). Ive tried some rx8 wheels (+50offset) but they didnt fit, the tyre hit the bottom of the strut. this was with 225 40 18 bridgestones. Would i have the same problem with the wheels im thinking of buying??

thanks in advance

[Kongaroo]

Is it possible to get 8.5" rims onto the front of an MR2 assuming the tyre size is suitable. Im thinking specifically of ultralite ones (think the offset would be 35). Ive tried some rx8 wheels (+50offset) but they didnt fit, the tyre hit the bottom of the strut. this was with 225 40 18 bridgestones. Would i have the same problem with the wheels im thinking of buying??

thanks in advance

Don't think you will be able to fit 8.5 inch width on the front. Even if you have the tyres sized right so that the wheel sits under the spring perch you will find the inner part of the wheel/tyre will rub against the side of the strut itself with 35 offset.

Even if you had a lower offset so that it didn't catch against the strut casing the wheel would be well beyond the wheel arch so again not viable I 'm afraid.

8 inch front is about as wide as you can get on the front without arch extensions...

My vehicle garage shows 16x8" fronts with +33 offset.

The US MR2 forum recommends +35 on an 8" rim as flush with the wheel arch so technically they would say my rims are 2mm beyond the arch. However this is not easy to see in reality

[Leon.]

Why do you want 8.5" on the front?

You'd never get a 50 offset on but a 35 might be possible. You'd be proud of the arches though.