Originally Posted by
Newjack
So that leaves me down to either square 17x8.5 255's ET40 or square 18x8.5 255's (Apex makes two different offset 18x8.5's - They make an ET38 and an ET45 - Does anyone know if there is any difference between the two besides the offset? Is one more concave than the other?)
both 18x8.5" ET38 and ET45 have the same face profile. apex told me they recommend the ET38 for the front of the E46 chassis, but i can't see a problem with running the ET45 ones as lots of people run 18x8.5" ET50 135M rear wheels on the front without issue.
for me, the ET38 is a pretty aggressive fitment up front on the E46 non-M, and you must run at least -1.5* negative camber with a 245 or 255 tire, otherwise it's going to stick out past the top of the fender, which in my opinion looks a bit off.
i've got 18x8.5" ET38 square with 245/35/18 PSS, and i'm thinking of going to the 18x8.5" ET45 and 18x9.5" ET58 (with 5mm spacer) setup with 235/40/18 and 265/35/18 PSS.
i've run staggered and square, and ultimately i prefer staggered for it's overall feel on the road - narrower tires up front definitely help with steering feel.
peter
2004 330i ZHP
2005 330iT ZHP
2010 328iT M Sport