Steel wheels?
 

This is a pretty basic question, but my searching hasn't turned up much. Are there any OEM 16" steel wheels that will properly fit the 986? Is it possible to use equal sized front and rear wheels/tires as a winter setup? Thanks in advance.

Probably not. You need 16s to clear brakes on a non S and 17s to clear brakes on an S. I would not run equal width rims front and rear. Keep in mind, Porsche has a very unusual bolt pattern and you're not likely to find steel wheels that will fit.

Patrick

Well, since Porsche hasn't put steel wheels on cars probably since the 1960s, OEM is definitely not going to happen.

The Toe-rag offroad community has solutions though, if you are stuck on steel. The Cayenne/Touareg both have the same 5x130 that we have on our real cars, and you can usually get them in custom offsets.

The only reason I like steel wheels on my winter tires is that I can hammer them back into shape rather than welding them back when I slide into a curb or something more drastic...

Thanks for the input. I'm not necessarily stuck on steel, I just assumed it would be the least expensive and most durable option for a winter setup. It seems that most people simply go with an OEM set of Boxster wheels, though.

I just went OEM.. it seemed like the least amount of hassle.. I was really surprised by how well the Blizzaks did in the snow, even @ 255/17s. Before last year, I didn't even know they MADE Z Rated snow tires!

Since you're in NJ, I'll throw this out: http://986forum.com/forums/boxster-cayman-parts-sale-wanted/12368-fs-4-bridgestone-blizzak-snow-tires-mounted-stock-17-rims-%241000.html I'm trying to sell my set that I used last winter, and we can meet up somewhere convenient since you're close.

Steel wheels? no., However, the BASE 986 wheel was 16" (admittedly, alloy). 6 and 7 x 16. Is the real issue that you are looking for Steel? Why so? Just put some good waxz on the alloys and have at it!

Best traction in the snow... 205/55/16 snow tires all around. The car looks a little naked in the rear with this setup but it works great. OEM wheels are the way to go. You should be able to find a set of takeoffs near you for cheap.

356 sttel wheels
 

IMO, the best looking wheels on a Porsche were the original chrome steel wheels on the 356 A/B, 550 Spyder, etc. This would be a great look on a 986 and bring out its 550 heritage. Does anyone know if this has been done? Or how to go about getting this vintage look? Adapting old steel wheels is probably near impossible but alloys would do.

Cheers,

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