Citroen XM Forum

robert_e_smart wrote:Thats those pesky series 2 cars for you!

I hadn't actually noticed that..thank you Robert.

Just shows, even subliminally S1 cars are better.

I wonder what the low profile tyres will do to the magic carpet ride of the XM

Jan-hendrik wrote:I wonder what the low profile tyres will do to the magic carpet ride of the XM

I can imagine a car riding on Hydractive 1 with small corner spheres an dampers might be a bit cart like.

I like the concept, but 18" wheels are too big for the XM. Some of the beautiful proprtions are somehow lost with this size of wheel.

Personally I think a 16" wheel would be both aesthetically pleasing, and perhaps be an acceptable ride/comfort/looks compromise.

Totally agree Rohan. Large wheels on an XM overwhelm the over appearance. I still like the C6 7 spoke design, but it needs to be smaller.

I feel it is the same for most 80s/90s designed cars Russ. 18" wheels were never on the design agenda and consequently look disproportionate when fitted.

I must confess that I have never been a fan of the large wheel trend of the last decade anyway. I also feel that the trend may have run its course- wheels simply can't go on getting larger and larger.

Hi Everybody
Seeing as we are talking alternative wheels on am XM !!

Available now!!

Brian

One of the reasons why we are getting larger wheels on new cars is down to the physical size of new cars. They have got so big, hiding that extra weight has become an issue design wise. and consequently caused them to become fussy and over detailed. Yes it is clever, having creases ect to take the bulk out of body panels, but large wheels and arches also take out that added bulk too. black trim around wheel arches also visually increases the size of the wheels. Current Mini and Honda Civic is a good example. Trends and customer desires dictate too, but there is a considered reason why wheels of that size are used. All about proportions.

vive la difference wrote:Hi Everybody
Seeing as we are talking alternative wheels on am XM !!
Available now!!
Brian

Thank you, but no thank you. I am still quite happy with the way Bertone designed the XM. I haven't really seen anything that improved on his studio's work. Being it different wheel sizes, body kits, double-triple headlights, lowered suspension or spoilers. But this is just my personal opinion. Do not be deterred by this and do what you wish in your search for something better or more exciting

vive la difference wrote:Seeing as we are talking alternative wheels on am XM !! Available now!!

What's the score with those wheels then Brian?!! They look like they've got some fancy design...any more pics?

russ92xmsed wrote:One of the reasons why we are getting larger wheels on new cars is down to the physical size of new cars.

You're right, Russ - my C4 is running 17s and in some ways they're too small! Quite a few C4 owners when they do change their wheels go for 18s as they fill the arches much better. Saying that though, I have seen a few C4s that have been lowered a touch (not slammed...) and hubcentric spacers fitted - gave it a much better look. I think that's one thing about my C4 that I could be tempted to change...

Jan-hendrik wrote:Being it different wheel sizes, body kits, double-triple headlights, lowered suspension or spoilers.

Anyone got any XM triple headlamps anywhere...!