Winter tires - do 18" or 19" perform better?

[kmcdds]

I'm currently driving the RWD with 19" sport wheels but I'm starting to think about winter driving in southern Ontario. Does it make a difference in terms of winter performance with 18" or 19"? I have a quote from a local tire store for Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 which would be mounted on 19" rims. These tires seem to get good reviews.
https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tests/testDisplay.jsp?ttid=181

 

[TurnFast]

I recall watching a video comparing rim sizes and I think they found that the smaller rims did better in wet conditions and the bigger rims were better in dry conditions.
So that would probably point towards the 18s.

I'm in a similar situation (getting a model 3 with 19s at the end of the month) and I was just planning on getting a set of 18s with winter tires from tesla so I could have a summer and winter set of wheels I could change out myself, plus if I'm ever planning any long road trips I have the option of switching to the 18" areos.

 

[fuchs]

Generally you want to go with a smaller wheel for winters. A smaller wheel size means you get more sidewall height on the tires, which allows for more impact resistance to things like potholes, which often hid in snowy conditions.

 

[Zcd1]

18s will be less expensive, and you’d have a wider range of tire options.

The tire width is more important than the wheel size though when it comes to actual snow traction. 10 mm narrower section width than the OEM tire is a good place to start.

 

[NOTLPIP]

About to receive my TM3-P.

The Tesla shop offers Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 on 19" rims. Seems to be a good play as the tires are well reviewed and the rims look good. Not to mention that the service centre will be familiar with the package.

Can't really see a reason not to get them.

 

[mswlogo]

Where there is snow, there are almost always pot holes. Get the 18" Snows !!!

Will 18" fit over the Performance Brembo Brakes Calipers?

 

[Goosby]

Had I not bought a set of OEM 19” wheels private party I would have gotten the TSportline 18 inch wheels designed for the performance version of the Model 3. As others have said, I think a smaller wheel is preferred for winter driving to give you a bit more side wall to absorb potholes; another bonus is tires are a little cheaper.

Since I have the 19” wheel, and once I can verify the OEM wheels fit over the rotor lip, I will either go with Nokian R3s or Pilot Alpin PA4. Seems like Nokian will be best in dicey, blizzard like situations, but I’m not sure how well they perform on cold, dry roads.