195 width or 205 width...?

[_Rob_]

Hi,
Need a new set of tyres for my 2002 172, on standard wheels.
Whats the best size to go for.. the standard 195/45/16 or the slightly wider 205/45/16 as some people seem to have?
Its lowered on eibachs, if that makes any difference..

Any thoughts guys??

Cheers

 

[lawrence]

215 if you can get them on 16s

 

[Blue4Ever]

I have 215's on 16" turinis, handles & grips etc superbly but I couldn't compare them to either of the other sizes as the wheels came with brand new GSD3's in 215. From a quick look I think 215's are cheaper than 205's which seem very expensives, think 195 are cheaper than all I think.

 

[Ali]

do 215's fit? :S

 

[Blue4Ever]

No, it just sits on my drive! lol

Yep, no probs here.

 

[thedoc]

I noticed a tiny bit more torque steer by upgrading from 195's to 205's, but noticed an improvement in cornering.. I'm off back down to 195's when these are worn - as they're cheaper & I'm tight.

 

[The Hoff]

I find theres definitely more tramlining on 205 PE2's riding poor quality roads. Also find that standing water can cause more aquaplaining than 195's me thinks.

That said theres more grip to be had generally, bit of a trade off tbh. IMO though I think 215's the wheel is over rubbered, and there comes a point where friction is negating the performance and handling of the car. Wider isn't always better, far from it. If the tyre is too wide for the rim, your only introducing more tyre roll.

If price was sufficient to dictate a significant saving on 195's then i'd take those.

 

[Gareth]

215s!! fcuk me!

 

[Timmay]

ive got 205 45 R16's on my dynamique - look better than 195 IMO

 

[_Rob_]

Thanks for for the replys, better see what the differences in prices are..
No boubt will be 195s.. as im thight too

215s!! dont they look a bit odd on a standard rim?

 

[haitch]

215 does fit, its the widest you can go on 16x7 but unecessary. 205 or 195 is down to costs & personal preference, both are ok. if you opt for 215 check your offset as if your car is lowered you may get rubbing.

 

[monolith]

i have 205's on my astra but on a 17 rim.

 

[Saner]

i've has 195 205 1nd now 215 on my car, personally i've had the best grip with the 215's but its hampered my acceleration, so i would say 205's are ideal