Iceguy24

Hi! I'm new to this forum. I recently picked up a new 2009 G37x sedan (not the Sport model) and I'm loving it so far!

I live north of Toronto, Canada and I commute to the city for work. I'm looking at various winter tire combinations and this forum has been a valuable source of information. However, I thought I'd ask a few questions relating to my situation.

The tire size I have now is P225/55R17. I found a good deal on some used winter tires (Pirelli SnowSport 210 - size P245/50/R17). These tires have virtually the same diameter and sidewall but are slightly wider (about 3/4 of an inch). I know the rule of thumb for winter tires is "narrower is better" but will the wider tire make that much of a difference? Also, would the P245s fit properly on a 17x7.5 rim?

Alternatively, I could drop down to a P215/65R16 set up and use steel wheels. Are there any fitment issues to consider with a 16-inch package?

All responses are appreciated. Thanks!

Neal@tirerack

iTrader: (2)

The 245's will fit fine. Typically you do want narrower for snow/ice as it's easier for the car to cut through it that way. Guess it really depends on how good the deal is vs. worth losing a little cause of the wider footprint. Haven't found any 16's that will fit over the brakes. Smallest we have is 17".

jsingh

iTrader: (1)

Welcome to the forum. If you drove this past Monday on any of the 400 series Highways from north of the city you'd know the roads were horrid. I don't have any advice regarding tires (G's stored for winters), sorry, but I KNOW there are a lot of knowledgeable member on this forum who can assist you, G luck.

Iceguy24

Thanks for the replies guys!

I wasn't totally comfortable with a wider winter tire setup so I passed on those tires. But I did find a more appropriate used tire/rim combo that should work much better (P225/55R17 Dunlop Graspic DS2 tires on BSA 264 rims). Hopefully I can squeeze a couple of winters out of those tires.

Thanks again!