Originally posted by Kremithefrog:
I thought wider tires equaled more traction which equaled faster launches.


However the catch 22 here is that "wider" tires will not fit.

245/45/16's (9.6" footprint) are the largest tire "to my knowledge" that have been fit in the front fenders.
Those required wheel spacers to clear the struts. (I dislike wheel spacers for they change suspension geometry and add undue stress to the wheel bearings)

225/50/16's (9" footprint) fit without the spacers. (barely)


What I am really talking about is tire diameter. As the tire diameter increases the final drive decreases and the amount of force required to rotate the tire from a stop increases.

All 3 play a part in slowing down your short times.


Also a wider tire "technically" will add more rolling resistance and drag which both with slow down your trap speed. However the added traction and contact patch is usually well worth it.

This is also why you Do Not lower your tire pressure. More rolling resistance and a smaller contact patch. Both very bad for trying to go faster and quicker.

2000 SVT #674 13.47 @ 102 - All Motor! It was not broke; Yet I fixed it anyway.