[CivicSiRacer]

Originally posted by MattyO217


Going from a 40 series (you said you had 215/40 16's) tire to a 50 series tire (205/50 15's) did you notice any DECREASED responsiveness? I know you said response is better, but was that just due to the lighter weight (i.e. made acceleration, braking, and maybe grip better)? I guess what I'm thinking is wouldn't you lose some turn-in responsiveness (like maybe a little mushier when abruptly turning due to the slightly thicker (50 series) sidewall)? Maybe I'm wrong. Does it matter if it's say, a 50 (i.e. 205/50 15) series Z rated tire vs. a 45 series Z rated tire(i.e. 205/45 16)? I guess I just want to make sure I'm making the right choice for my taste in performance. I want my car to be responsive as possible. I'm probably nit picking but just want to be sure.

Thanks for you help,
~M

Well the biggest thing was the tires. The Azenis in 215/40x16" weighed about 40lbs on 16x7.5" wheels. PLus those tires rubbed like crazy! They were more like 225/40x16" or even 235/40x16". The 205/50x15" on 15x7" Kosei K1s weighed 32lbs. But those are more like 215/50x15" or close to 225/50x15" Very wide tires.

But yeah braking, accelerating, and turning improved going from the 16s to the 15s and turn in didn't really change either. PLus there are more "high performance" tires in 15s than 16s.

I also feel safer driving on the streets with 15s than 16s. Having a larger sidewall helps cushion the ride, and protect from potholes better.