A couple of things about wheel size. First, larger rims will make your car
accelerate more slowly. This is because the wheel rim weighs more than
tire sidewall so using a 15" wheel instead of a 14 inch wheel will increase
the moment of inertia for the wheel. This will make it harder to change
the wheel velocity therefore slower acceleration.
Second, I agree with those that say skinny tires are more fun than fat
tires. I had a Corv**te between a Spit**re and the present MGA. The Vette
was a world of fun on the autocross track but it was basically a truck for
every day driving. I much prefer LBC's with their light steering and
chuckable nature on the street.
Third, since almost all cars will lock their tires, braking power is
almost entirely reliant on the tire, not the braking system. Control
during braking and fade are another matter, however. Control needs
balance. The MGA locks it's rears too early. Fade resistence requires
heat rejection. Again our LBC's are not well optimized for this. Unless
you are racing or decending Pike's peak, fade won't affect most of us.
On the second subject, a great place to buy cheap books is the Classic
Motorbooks Wheels and Wings car show and fly in. I picked up Porter's DIY
MGB for $15.00! It is in early September this year for those who are
interested.
Regards,
Bill Eastman
61 MGA with stock wheel and snow tires- lots of fun but kinda slow
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