215/45/18s or 215/40/18s?

[random_mcnobody]

I just got a set of MS3 rims to throw on my MZ3, but they require some new rubber.

In comparison to the diametre of my stock wheels (205/50/17), should I be looking at 215/40/18s (1.2% smaller) or 215/45/18s (2.2% bigger) for new tires? I guess my main concerns are the looks (wheel gap), any potential rubbing, and correct-ness of the speedo.

Any experiences/thoughts?

[S.F.W.]

None of the above. 225/40/18

[taz4432]

http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/showthread.php?41266-What-looks-best&p=563882&viewfull=1#post563882 <-- Check out what Aristeidis had to say. That should pretty much answer it for you.

[Default User]

Dammit - 2 people beat me to it

[aris]

None of the above. 225/40/18

+1


http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/showthread.php?41266-What-looks-best&p=563882&viewfull=1#post563882 <-- Check out what Aristeidis had to say. That should pretty much answer it for you.

+1..hehe

[McGuyver_3]

i ran 225/4018s on my last mazda 3 and the same size onmy new 3 no problems what so ever

[RedRaptor]

OP is asking about the MS3 OEM rims which are only 7" wide I believe (older gen). So he doesn't necessarily have to run 225/40/18 unless he wants rim protectors.

[aris]

OP is asking about the MS3 OEM rims which are only 7" wide I believe (older gen). So he doesn't necessarily have to run 225/40/18 unless he wants rim protectors.

7" rim is more then wide enough for a 225/40/18 which will also bring him to almost the exact size for is speedo

[random_mcnobody]

Thanks for the input everyone.

Any suggestions on tires? I'm thinking along the lines of Falken ZE-912s or Kumho Ecsta ASXs; looking for a good balance between treadwear and performance.

[aris]

Thanks for the input everyone.

Any suggestions on tires? I'm thinking along the lines of Falken ZE-912s or Kumho Ecsta ASXs; looking for a good balance between treadwear and performance.

I my self am not a fan of falkens..i got BFG g-force tires on my rims

I've had kumo on my truck before i sold my truck and it was an all right tire

[McGuyver_3]

Thanks for the input everyone.

Any suggestions on tires? I'm thinking along the lines of Falken ZE-912s or Kumho Ecsta ASXs; looking for a good balance between treadwear and performance.

i am currently running michelin pilot sports

[random_mcnobody]

Another question; should I be concerned with bending a rim on profile 40 tires? Some of the roads here in Nova Scotia are pure evil come spring time. Or is a profile of 45 going to make any difference?

[stevenma188]

As long as you don't get super lightweight rims, and take it easy over rough roads, and you'll be fine.

[aris]

Your going to have to take it easy over bumps

[SonicBoy]

45 over 40 is not going to make that much of a difference over the pot hole roads. Just gotta be careful and go slow. Or, drive like a drunk weaving all over the road to avoid the holes.

[m_bisson]

"Sir, your driving was erratic. Have you been drinking?"
"Officer, your eyes are glazed. Have you been eating doughnuts?"