Why are the rear wheels of my car larger than those on the front?

I've asked my local garage to change my wheels round for me. I drive a 2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe and left the car with them as they were busy. When I went to pick it up, they told me the wheels are a different size, rears are bigger, and so can't be swapped over. Why are they different sizes?

Asked on 4 June 2020 by Peter cafferty

Answered by Dan Powell

This is quite normal. Large and powerful rear-wheel drive cars will usually have larger rear wheels. The larger diameter increases the tyre contact with the road and this provides better traction and stability under acceleration (when the weight of the car shifts to the rear).

Tags: wheels and tyres

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