Performance Diff Between 205/215?

[Karl Marx]

Hi guys.

I'm going to be buying tires soon and have a small question. ( No its not about which ones )

I've had these 2 types of tires: 205/45/17 (stock MP3 Dunlops) and 215/40/17 (Toyo T1S) on my MP3.

I've been wondering, the suggested size for the MP3 rim is 205. The 215 tire fits but overlaps a bit on the inside. Does this affect performance? I've had the impression that with the 215's the handling was "different" ( It felt a bit less on rails / responsive .. it was minimal tough ). Maybe it was because of the weak Toyo sidewall?

So i'm kinda undecided if i go with 215's again or 205's. 215 look nicer

Thanks

 

[gar777]

My guess is that the difference in tires is what you noticed, rather than the 10mm difference in section width and 5% difference in aspect ratio.

 

[Installshield 2]

yeah its totally tire dependant...size differences can only be noticed between the same tire type (like S-03's in a 215 or 205/45)...the toyo tires had differences other than just the side, like you mentioned, which all contribute to different handling... The general rule is that wider tires are better for braking and overall cornering grip...but worse for responsiveness and feedback...So a 205 will probably feel a little more nimble, and a 215 would provide better traction during hard acceleration or braking...possibly a little more cornering traction too...

 

[kakarot]

The overlap on the sidewall from the 215 is gonna allow the tire to roll on the rim a little more than the 205. That would definately accout for the loss in responsiveness you feel.