mattvortex

on my my98 impreza, i currently have the standard size tyres (205/50/16) on the standard wheels. will need to replace the bridgstone so3's soon and am probably going to get toyo proxes t1s. will i be able to put a lower profile tyre on the standard wheel- was thinking 205/45/16 or could i even put a wider 215/40/16 on the standard wheel? if it is possible , will it have much positive improvement? i know the ride will be firmer with the lower profile but what about regards to handling and would it be a straight forward swap? feedback appreciated!

pmarch

I'm no expert but possibly not. Unless style and look is really paramount, best to stick with same profile/width/size as you have currently. Also, lower profiles on same size wheel would make whole wheel/tyre look smaller in the arches - it seems that if you get bigger wheels, you get lower profile tyres to compensate.

Honest John (Daily Telegraph) suggests that the lower the tyres profile, the more it increases the firmness of ride but more importantly usually worsens the car's handling generally. I know I (and Honest John) may be saying sad things and the blingmasters will no doubt heap loads of scorn and laugh.

BTW, you could consider Eagle F1 GSD3's - they are recommended by a lot on SN as a decent all round tyre. I find them pretty good.