17in Front 18in rear wheels

[ModsAway]

The corvette's came or do come stock with 17inch wheels up front and 18 inch wheels in the back. Would someone be so kind as to explain why they do this? Is it purely aesthetics or is there any performance benefit?

Thanks.

 

[jwfisher]

In interviews when the C5 was launched, GM engineers clearly said it was for looks only. However, given the 'vettes weight balance fr/rr different width tires are a requirement.

More importantly, that car has a favorable wright balance, where the Rs and late model Cobras are terrible. Doing anything on our cars that would make the front tires have to work harder is a very bad idea.

 

[ac427cobra]

Originally posted by jwfisher
In interviews when the C5 was launched, GM engineers clearly said it was for looks only. However, given the 'vettes weight balance fr/rr different width tires are a requirement.

More importantly, that car has a favorable wright balance, where the Rs and late model Cobras are terrible. Doing anything on our cars that would make the front tires have to work harder is a very bad idea.

And here I thought it was because the guys in Bowling Green couldn't read a tape measure?! ;-) :lol:

 

[ModsAway]

Lol alright, thanks for the answers. Already received my 17x10.5 anyway, now to get those springs and tires.