e-39 wheel fitment question

[mcr]

I have an opportunity to pick up a set of unused m-5 rims that I would use on my 02' 540i. Wheels are 18" staggers with 8" fronts and 9.5" rears. Currently run original 17"s with 8" fronts and 9" rears with sport suspension. Thanks for any feedback on if this would work/fit.... or is it wishful thinking......Regards, MCR in Ohio

[Jim@tirerack]

They will work but I would go a little narrower on the tires with 235/40R18 and 265/35R18 rear.
If I can help with the tires let me know.

[mcr]

Jim, sounds good, ...would I have a problem with rim edge protection with the narrower size? Regards, MCR

[PENER]

I'm guessing these are replicas (made by FM probably) with 20 front and 24 rear offset respectively. just make sure the center bore is 74.1mm and not around 72mm!!!

[mcr]

Thanks, I will double check. The story on these is that they are OEM off a 02' M-5. The tire shop scratched one during a tire change & then had them refinished. The customer still refused them & the shop ended up buying the customer new rims. Learned of them from a Goodyear engineer who's friend calls on the shop for the Co.... Seems pretty solid & after 18 months of trying to move them at retail pricing the shop has offered them to me for $800.00

[PENER]

I didn't know BMW would make these (and not only these) in 18''. I would better check on the 5er forum. brand new replicas in that size would go for about $850. So if these are really replicas, it's not a deal at all. should they be BMW original ones, I would def jump on it.

[Jim@tirerack]

You would still be fine for protecting the wheel. They are just 1/3" narrower but they give the clearance you will need.

[GuapOh]

Most e39'ers who put OEM e39M5 wheels on non-M% e39's have to replace the rear fender liners with those from an M5 otherwise rubbing is an issue.

OEM wheels of that style are roughly $3000 for a set WITHOUT the rubber.