Ultimate Guide to C7 Corvette Wheel and Tire Upgrades

Choosing the Right Wheel and Tire Package for Your C7 Corvette

Whether you just picked up a brand new C7 Corvette or you're looking to upgrade the wheels and tires on your existing 'Vette, choosing the right wheel and tire package can make a dramatic difference in your vehicle's performance, handling and style.

Importance of the Right Fit

Your Corvette's wheels and tires are its only point of contact with the road, so having the optimal combination of wheel size, tire dimensions, construction materials and performance ratings is crucial. Upgrading to a larger wheel and lower-profile tire can improve handling and braking. But you need to carefully consider fitment to avoid rubbing, scrubbing or clearance issues.

Wheel Options for the C7 Corvette

Most C7 Corvettes came from the factory with 19-inch wheels up front and 20-inch wheels out back. But there are a variety of sharp aftermarket wheels to consider in staggered sizing or matched sets:

• Forged aluminum wheels for maximum strength & weight savings
• Cast aluminum wheels that are more affordable but heavier
• Exotic forged wheels made from magnesium or carbon fiber
• Custom wheel designs to match your 'Vette's personality

Keep in mind that wheel width plays a big role. Wider rear wheels (e.g. 12" vs 10") allow you to install a wider, grippier tire.

Tire Considerations for Your C7

You have similar choices to make when it comes to selection of tires:

• Staggered Sizing - Keep the wider tire in back for optimal grip
• Materials - Softer performance compounds vs long-wearing touring treads
• Tread Patterns - Directional treads, asymmetric designs, etc.
• Profile - Lower sidewalls look sportier but impact ride
• Speed Rating - Make sure your new tires match the 'Vette's top speed

Let's Look at Some Wheel & Tire Package Options

Now let's explore some actual wheel and tire packages that C7 Corvette owners frequently install for better performance and customized style:

Package #1: The OE Wheel Upgrade

One simple option is ditch your base Corvette's small 5-spoke wheels in favor of wider, flashier OE wheels from the Z06 or Grand Sport models:

• Upgrade to the Z06's wider forged aluminum wheels
• Option for machined, black or chrome finishes
• Retain C7 Stingray's standard tire sizing
• Just replace the wheels for cost-effective upgrade

Package #2: Lower Profile Tires

Or you could stick with your factory wheels but upgrade to high-performance tires with shorter sidewalls:

• Michelin Pilot Sport 4S or similar max-grip tires
• Lower profile looks slick, improves turn-in
• Retain factory wheel width and design
• May impact ride comfort on poor roads

Package #3: Ultra-Wide Rear Tires

This upgrade path installs a square staggered wheel & tire package with wide 12.5" rear wheels:

• Aggressive 12.5" rear wheels accommodate 335-series tires
• Maintain smaller front wheels for easy turn-in
• Massive 335-series rear tires put power down
• Requires fender rolling to eliminate rub at full lock

Package #4: Track Focused Build

Finally, you could go full race-car spec with super-wide wheels, R-comp tires and adjustable suspension:

• Ultra-lightweight forged aluminum wheels
• Square staggered 20x11" front & 20x13" rear
• Stickiest track-ready tires like Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R
• Coilover suspension and increased camber for hard cornering

As you can see, C7 owners have lots of enticing options when shopping for their next wheel and tire package. Whether you want a cost-effective factory wheel upgrade or an all-out track rat setup, understanding fitment and carefully selecting each component will get you to your 'Vette goals!

FAQs

What are the stock wheel and tire sizes on a C7 Corvette?

The C7 Corvette originally came with 19x8.5" front wheels and 20x10" rear wheels. Tire sizes were 245/35R19 front and 285/30R20 rear. Z06 and Grand Sport models had wider 20" wheels and tires all around.

Will new wheels and tires void my Corvette's factory warranty?

Installing aftermarket wheels and tires will not automatically void your factory powertrain warranty. However, any related damage or wear specifically caused by new components may not be covered.

What size wheels & tires can I fit without rubbing?

With minor fender rolling, you can usually fit staggered 20x11" front and 20x13" rear wheels wearing 275/30R20 and 335/25R20 tires respectively without rubbing issues at full lock.

Should I upgrade the suspension for track-focused wheels & tires?

If you plan on using R-compound tires and running very aggressive camber settings for track use, upgrading to adjustable coilover suspension is highly recommended to get proper alignment and weight transfer.