Will smaller wheels improve the ride quality of my wife's MINI Cooper S?

My wife runs a 2003 MINI Cooper S which she has had from new. In truth she would have been better served by a Cooper, as the ride quality is not good and potholes must be avoided at all costs. I have noticed that on eBay there are plenty of 15-inch wheels and tyres for sale, as people like to change to bigger wheels. Would it give a noticeable improvement if I bought some of these?

Asked on 10 August 2010 by velopete

Answered by Honest John
It'll give a softer ride, but I don't know if the wheels will fit around the Cooper S brake callipers. 16-inch wheels will definitely fit.
Similar questions
After a short test drive on the A3 I bought a BMW X1 Crossover with a load of extras from the local BMW dealer. I soon realised that the ride was very hard on the much cambered and pot holed side roads...
I have a 2004 BMW 330Ci Sport convertible. It is a lovely car except for the rock-hard ride caused by the sports suspension with 18-inch wheels and 35/40 profile tyres. Since it will need two new tyres...
I have a Mercedes-Benz ML-Class, with Airmatic suspension. The car is on 21-inch wheels at the moment. Would it make a big difference to the ride if I fitted 19-inch wheels?
Related models
Fast and fun.