Winter Wheels for 2001 330i

[sscho2000]

Hi, I am new to this forum and had a question about winter wheels/tires for my '01 330i. I am contemplating buying 4 used wheels which used to be on a 2001 M3. They are 17" rims installed with the Bridgestone Blizzak LM50 225/50/17 size tires. Note, the second number is "50." My manual indicates that the winter configuration can be either 205/50/17 (on 17x7 rims) or 225/45/17 (on 17x8" rims). Since the wheels I'm considering buying have the 225/50/17, I was wondering if that was OK. The difference is in the second number 50 versus 45. I guess this has to do with the tire profile or something. Any help on this would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance.

[-ursa-]

the rear wheels offset (M3 wheels) will be too low for your 330 and they will not fit. I personally run 225/45/17s in the winter as does my father on his 01 330cic. :)

[Jim@tirerack]

The tires and wheels would be wrong for your car. The M3 uses a taller tire than the regular 3 Series and different offsets than the 3 Series.
If I can help with a snow package let me know.

[sscho2000]

Ursa - thanks for the info.

Jim - I've been looking at the winter packages for the '01 330i on Tire Rack and it recommended a package using 16" wheels. Wouldn't the 16" wheels be too small? My manual indicates a 17" wheel (17x7 using 205/50/17 or 17x8 using 225/45/17) for winter tires. Since the 16" package is less costly, I would actually prefer that as long as it was OK. Thanks.

[Jim@tirerack]

We had a 16" wheel made to clear the brakes on the 330 BMW. They retain the overall diameter and you can go with a narrower tire to improve your traction in the winter. The 16" wheels and tires will also be less likely to get damaged in the winter.
If I can help let me know.