Different tires for a rim?

My stock rims are 14 x 5 1/2. Yeah, I know... I hate my econobox. I'm the original owner of the vehicle (a 2003 Saturn ION), and I've always replaced the tires with the OEM size: 185/70-14.

If I desire a stiffer and more responsive ride, can I safely replace these with, say, a 185/65-14?

I understand that the 14 can't change... it's the diameter of the rim, and the tire simply won't seat otherwise. However, what are the specific results of changing the other two (the width and profile percentage) regarding ride quality, and what are some safe limits for these two?

What tire geometry for this rim would give me the most sporty ride (ignoring ride comfort)? It's time to change my tires anyway, and I'm hoping this will be a free or cheap way to change my car's handling a bit.

This tire is lower than the 70 series, speedo issue, slight though, is one thing, ride may be a little firmer, and a 6 inch wide rim would be more appropriate.

This tire is lower than the 70 series, speedo issue, slight though, is one thing, ride may be a little firmer, and a 6 inch wide rim would be more appropriate.

If I could afford to change the rims I probably wouldn't stick with 14" unless I could find 14 x 7 1/2 or something crazy like that.

Depending on the design of the rim you might be able to get away with a 195/60 14 which would give you the same rolling diameter, and also offer more responsive handling.

However, you would be better simply replacing the wheels so you can run a wider, lower profile tyre.

Its not hard to do, you don't need a new set of mag wheels.
Just some second and steel wheels from a wrecker :)