Buggs

I was just wondering how much of a real performance loss would it be if I went from my stock 17" GS rims to a 16" rim with not such an aggfesive tire?

I would like to gain a somewhat softer ride without turning the car into a ES. I like to drive fast, not necessarily taking corners at high s
peed. Any thoughts.

Or could any recomendations on a softer riding tire compared to the Yokohama 235/45z/17's?

e-man

Hey Buggs. I've been struggling with the exact same dilemma. I just swapped out my stock 17s for my winter 16s. The difference in ride quality is unbelievable. You can still feel the road, but the ride is so much more compliant, less jolting, fewer rattles, etc. On the 17s, I have Toyo Proxes4 23545zr17s, and the ride was firm, borderline harsh. On the 16s, I have Goodyear Eagle GT+4s (which are by no means a soft riding tire), but they are so much softer than the 17s. Come spring time, I will put the 17s back on and I am looking to change from an all season high performance tire (which is what the Toyo Proxes4 is) to an all season grand touring tire. Supposedly, the ride quality will be vastly different. I've been told that 17s with an all season grand touring tire will approach the ride quality and comfort of the 16s with all season performance tires (not high performance tires). As best I can tell, the best tire to accomplish this is the Bridgestone Turanza LS (V or Z). I've heard the Michelin Energy MXV4 is a close second, but the wet and snow traction with that tire is not so good (again, I've been told). Other choices in a 17 might be a Continental ExtremeContact or the Pirelli Pzero Nero M+S. I don't think those tires will ride as quietly and comfortably as the Turanzas though, but you will get better handling out of them. It's all a trade off. Hope this helps.

e

P.S.: Where are you from? Around Chicago?

e-man

Hey Buggs. I just went back and re-read your post. You definitely will lose some performance going from a 17 to a 16. The stock tire aspect ratio for the 16s is 55 profile, whereas the stock tire aspect ration for the 17s is 45. You will definitely feel a difference in the corners. For what it's worth, the car should be a tick faster off the line (assuming you maintain traction) because the 16s are lighter than the 17s. Like I said before, it's all a trade off. For me, I would take comfort and quiet over handling any day. Just my .02.

Buggs

thanks e-man. i appreciate your thoughts. this has been a tough decision.