14 in wheels on Series 3 V6 and turbo?

[Karl Hansell]

Hello All,

I have just written of my Series 2 V6 Thema.

I am currently looking for a new Thema. Mainly a Series 3 V6.

My question is can I fit the 14 inch wheels from my old Thema on a Series 3 V6 or a Turbo?
(The S3 V6 and Turbo did have larger front brakes??)
(Of main interest would be the winter tyres on the standard steel wheels, but migth be interested in fitting the standard aluminium wheels)

[Bros]

As i know, all thema's exept "Ferrari" edition, had the wheels with 4 bolts and the distance between it is 98 cm (4X98) .

[Karl Hansell]

Ooops, sorry i should have been more specific.

Yes, I know that all Themas (except the 8.32) had 4 bolts at 98 mm.
The Series 3 V6 and Turbo came with 15 inch wheels as standard. They also hade larger diameter discs (the same diameter as the 8.32).

The question is if the 14 inch wheels would fit the cars with bigger brakes, or if the wheel will make contact with the brake caliper

[Bros]

Well, the question in my opinion is related with the wheel's "ET" mark. Usually it is written on the wheel. It is known the dimensions of this mark (ET) ant common for all Themas (except 8.32) . The dimensions are: from 30.......(till)38mm .
So, if the wheel fitted to your S2, i think it is suitable to S3 V6...
Just my opinion

[C]

The front wheels are the problem. U can put 14" on the rear but I would not put them on the front. As you say it is the brakes that cause concern.

[pol]

Karl,

I own a S2 16V with standard 14" aluminium wheels, and a S3 Turbo with standard 15"aluminium wheels.
A while ago, i tried to use the spare 14" aluminium wheel of the S2 on the S3 with flat tyre, but i was unable to fit it because of the larger front brakes as you mentioned.

Regards,

Pol

[richard dean]

Hallo Karl,

I am selling my Thema SW LS 3lt if you are interested.
If so drop me a line at richard@teli-media.de

[FJB]

but on this one, putting on the 14" wheels of my former S2 i.e. was no problem.
One just has to look up in the registration paper whether the 175/70/14 wheel dimension is allowed, and if it is, it is OK.

But, another issue on that topic:
Main problem if you use only 14"-wheels on a S3 is that your max speed is reduced. Rear end ist much shorter on the S3 anyway, especially on the i.e..
And that's also the reason why fuel efficiency has become less excellent in the S3 when compared to the S2.
I cannot understand the short rear end at all, since the S2-i.e. seemed to have power without any end anyway.
FJB