I am taking delivery of a new BMW 1 Series later this month. The new car will have 17-inch wheels. I have been enquiring about winter tyres, as you will know that the BMWs are not much good in the snow. The list of tyre sizes and prices I was given are: 16-inch steels with covers £980, 16-inch alloys £1280, or 17-inch alloys £1740, all plus £60 fitting and storage.

I was told that the smaller wheel gives a better grip on the road and does not affect the ride or handling of the car, or the insurance policy. As I am a pensioner a friend said that I should wait and see if there is going to be any snow before I pay out money for the winter tyres.