What size 17" tires?

[kani]

Im trying to get a new set of rims and tires for my 2003 Mazda Protg ES. Im thinking about upgrading from my stock 16s to 17s, but Im not sure of what size tires to get. Discount Tires website says I can use: 205/40-17, 205/45-17 or 215/40-17. I also noticed the 2003 Protg MazdaSpeed uses a 215/45-17 tire.

The wheels Im looking at right now are 17x7.5 and my car isnt lowered (one of these days I might). Could someone give me some suggestions?

Also, if anyone has pictures of their ride on 17s, please post with tire dimensions so I can get an idea of what it will look like. Thanks.

 

[nate0123]

I ran both 205/40-17 and 215/45-17 on my Protege and I can tell you the difference in ride quality (and rim protection!) was huge - and I'd definitely prefer the latter, although you have to be cognisant about the speedo reading a bit lower than you're actually going

 

[nate0123]

also, keep in mind, proteges look stupid on 17's (or basically any size of aftermarket wheel) if they're not lowered

 

[Konvict]

i have 215/40Z R18 85Y Falken tyres on my MSP...nice tyres and good performance

 

[16902]

215/40R17s are closest to the stock Dunlop's 195/50R16s in diameter. This will keep your speedo closer to accurate.

FYI:

Dunlop SP Sport 5000: 195/50VR16 (23.7" Diameter)

Dunlop Direzza DZ101: 215/40ZR17 (23.8" Diameter)
Dunlop Direzza DZ101: 215/45ZR17 (24.6" Diameter)
Dunlop Direzza DZ101: 205/45ZR17 (24.3" Diameter)
Dunlop Direzza DZ101: 205/40ZR17 (23.5" Diameter)

I just picked the Direzza because that is the tire that I have but most manufacturer sizes are close for each size.

 

[03promaz]

right now i have 205/40/17s and switching to 215/45 to get some better ride