Originally posted by mbesket:
Now that this has gotten completely off-topic lets see if I can get it back on track.
I understand that the shorter sidewall is supposed to give my car better handling. What I want to know is if it will make much difference for my daily-driver Contour on the street. [FWIW, I also know some of the trade-offs that are part of the shorter sidewall experience: harsher ride, less forgiving of potholes, etc.]
As for the other information about reading the size and the UTQG ratings, thanks for trying to educate me. 
MikeOk,
To get it back on track, are you looking to change your handling characteristics, or do you just wanna save some $$$.
On the streets, you would probably be hard pressed to tell the difference. If it were my daily driver, I'd go with the lower profile, wider tire because of my agressive driving style.
I can tell the difference between the tires on my stock 16" wheels and the 17's I have. Now, my 17's are even lighter than the 16's, so that helps too.
It comes down to the value proposition, what is the handling worth to you? I probably wouldn't go greater than 17" because the added wieght of most wheels and the hassle factor or wheel injury both greatly increase.
I really like the 215/45-17s I have on my SVT.
FWIW,
TB
