'59 Buick would be great! Cadillac even better. I've had a few classic Cadillacs, yeah maybe I need to do that again

 

How much difference did you notice between the 16s and 17s?

 

Not wrong, but an oversimplification.

Shocks dampen in both directions (tho not equally.) An excessively stiff shock will feel harsher, regardless of how soft the spring is. Shocks should be compatible with the springs. More dampening is needed with stiffer springs. One example is that an excessively stiff shock on a soft spring will load the spring up, not allowing the spring to return to its normal position before you hit the next bump. An excessively soft (or worn-out) shock will provide inadequate damping and let the car bounce around and let the tires leave the road after bumps, leading to poor if not dangerous handling.

The goal is a balance between tire contact with the road, and comfort. The optimal setup varies with road conditions and driver preference. Obviously, this is why sports cars ride much more harshly than luxury cars.

 

Not much difference from the 16 to 17 inch rims there is only difference of 1/2 inch of sidewall, or 1 inch diameter of tire, but the same 25.5 inches of tire diameter.