(G) Panda 100hp wheels on my 500

So, I got them on!

The Panda 100hp wheels are 6.5 inches wide. After a basic bit of measurement, fitment testing and some feedback on here, I went for 205/50/15 tyres.

They were fitted this morning. Here's a (bad quality) photo of the result:





Compared to the 14s, there is a HUGE improvement in ride, handling and grip. And looks of course .

I don't know about the "factory" 15 inch option, as they are 185/55/15, but these reduce the rear-end bounciness very noticeably. They also go right out to the edge of the wheel arch, meaning a wider track for imoroved stability.

As for the design, you can't see it in the photo, but the way the wheel colour works with the black is brilliant. The shape of the spokes reflects some of the lines of the car, and it really looks as if they are designed specifically for the 500, rather than the "aftermarket" look of some alloys.

Overall, they are almost perfect. I say "almost", as the wheels' centre caps have a blue background behind the FIAT lettering, so I need some with a black background. But that's just splitting hairs.

i like it!

looks gd

Thanks for the vote of confidence.

The main improvement is really about the way it drives now. Many people say that 14s should be best, as the sidewall is taller, allowing for more a more compliant ride. But I disagree. The taller a tyre'ssidewall is, the more it acts like an undamped spring. Of course, with 17s and very low profile tyres you will have ride issues and crashing over bumps. But when I say the difference from 14 to 15 is HUGE I really mean it. The lower sidewall doesn't spring so much, which means the suspension is doing its job properly making the car more controllable, and inspiring more confidence in the car's stability at speed.

So, If anyone is concerned about ride quality of larger wheels/tyres compared to 14s, the proof is in the pudding: 15s (certainly with 205/50) feel spot on.

I wondered what they might look like as I dont like any of the alloys on the 500... not sure about them myself but you have a huge plus... you dont have the peelable chrome centre caps that break Youll easily be able to get the red Fiat badges which will look superb.

to be honest i prefer the standard 500 alloys, the 100HP alloys don't look quite right on the 500...maybe thats why they're meant for the 100HP

That's fine, you don't have to like them

Admittedly that is a bad photo, taken on a slope in bad light - the looks are are much better resolved when seen in the flesh. And of course, design is subjective.

I might make it a little lower for slightly better stability and aesthetics, plus improved rear damping. But that's for after the Warranty expires.

Have you got any more photos for those of us that haven't made up their minds yet?

Jim

I washed it on Sunday, but now it's already filthy again - pesky rain!

If it's a good weekend I'll do it again, and take some decent photos.