winter tires from SRT4?

[askier]

Hi guys, a bit of a newb question to true enthusiasts:

Before converting i.e. getting my Mazdaspeed3 '08, I drove an SRT4 and have a set of mint winter tires leftover. But they are 225/55R18, bit of a diff over 215/45R18 I'm on now. Haven't even checked if the nuts/wholes will fit as they're in storage, but I'm just wondering if it's at all possible before I make the trip and start trying things on.

Many thanks!:bang

[kckev99]

Hi guys, a bit of a newb question to true enthusiasts:

Before converting i.e. getting my Mazdaspeed3 '08, I drove an SRT4 and have a set of mint winter tires leftover. But they are 225/55R18, bit of a diff over 215/45R18 I'm on now. Haven't even checked if the nuts/wholes will fit as they're in storage, but I'm just wondering if it's at all possible before I make the trip and start trying things on.

Many thanks!:bang

Likely won't fit. 225/55 is already a wider tire + higher profile than the 215/45. Diameter is too large and will throw your speedo off.

You may have had a chance your tires were 225/40 series instead of 55.

[aris]

that tire size will not work..it's way to big

Specification Sidewall Radius Diameter Circumference Revs/Mile Difference
215/45-18 3.8in 12.8in 25.6in 80.5in 787 0.0%
225/55-18 4.9in 13.9in 27.7in 87.2in 727 8.3%

[Zoom Zoom Boy]

Way too big unfortunately. You're better off downsizing to 16" rims and tires for the MS3 as they will be cheaper and give you better traction and grip in the snow.

[askier]

many thanks for the prompt and concrete replies guys, this is exactly the kind of help i was in need of.... one other question re 16'' rims and tires - any particular ones you recommend? not necessarily performance, good traction is all i need them for in the winter :)

[taz4432]

The search question is your friend. I'd link you to a specific board but there are TONS of active and old boards on similar topics right now. With regards to rims, just buy a combo package from one of the club sponsors which includes both rims and tires, mounting, installation, balancing, etc.

Personally, I go to Simply Tire for my tire needs as Allen is extremely helpful and always puts together great tire group buys (check out his winter tire threads) but many other sponsors would also be glad to help. =)

[aris]

many thanks for the prompt and concrete replies guys, this is exactly the kind of help i was in need of.... one other question re 16'' rims and tires - any particular ones you recommend? not necessarily performance, good traction is all i need them for in the winter :)

I got Goodyear nordics on my car and they been good for me so far... My sister inlaw has Hankook ipikes w409 and they been good for her.

When my goodyears wear out I will be set of w409... I like them better then my goodyears

[Zoom Zoom Boy]

many thanks for the prompt and concrete replies guys, this is exactly the kind of help i was in need of.... one other question re 16'' rims and tires - any particular ones you recommend? not necessarily performance, good traction is all i need them for in the winter :)

I'd recommend a performance winter tire for the MS3, because otherwise you'll melt away the softer rubber on the dry days if you put the hammer down. I personally run the Hankook W300 on 16" steelies as my winter set-up, but if you do a lot of daily driving in snow, you may want to consider other performance tires that are softer which usually equates to more grip in snow and ice.