|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 367
CEG\'er
|
OP
CEG\'er
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 367 |
I am running E0 wheels on my 98 Zetec. It's now time to re-tire them. In hopes of improving a few things like gas milage, weight, and handling I am thinking of changing the tire size. I currently running 205-55-16s all around. Can I go to a 50 or 45 seires tire with no problems?
Thanks in advance for the replies.
Jon
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 5,975
Hard-core CEG'er
|
|
Hard-core CEG'er
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 5,975 |
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 367
CEG\'er
|
|
OP
CEG\'er
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 367 |
So based on that, and thank you by the way, I can run 225 vs 205 tires? Isn't that 20mm wider (just short of an inch) btw?
Or are you simply letting me know that I can go to a shorter aspect ratio?
Sorry, still mostly confused.
Jon
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 4,693
Hard-core CEG'er
|
|
Hard-core CEG'er
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 4,693 |
Personally, I think that you have the best size for your Zetec with SVT wheels. That was the stock size for the 98 SVT.
The 99 and 00 used 215/50R16. This tire is slightly wider and slightly smaller in diameter.
Many are using 225/50R16. This size is, as you noted, nearly an inch wider, and close to the same diameter. Because the optimal wheel width for this size is 7" and the SVT wheel is 6.5", the actual diameter will be very imperceptably larger. This size is a very close fit. Clearance is very close, but adequate. The larger footprint of this size will make the car slightly less "tossable" in handling, and feel a little heavier although you can actually push through a corner faster. I think your 4 cylinder will handle better with the 205/55/R16.
Some have also used a 225/45R16. I have no experience with this size on our cars.
Jim Johnson
98 SVT
03 Escape Limited
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 1,399
Hard-core CEG\'er
|
|
Hard-core CEG\'er
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 1,399 |
If you start playing with the aspect ratios on your tires, you can throw off the gearing, the speedo, and do NOTHING for your fuel economy.
I would stick with the 205s. It's a good combination of all you are looking for.
98 Silver Frost SVT
97 BMW 540I Sport, six speed
"Blue is for sky, black is for soil, and white is for simplicity, purity and hope for the future"
"A coveted car should never stunt your life, but should make it more rich and interesting."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
