Quote:
Originally Posted by ldstang50
GRM just did a text on with the same tires but in 16", 17" and 18" form. Same width too.
The tire that handled the best was the 17". Even though the 18's still had the same diameter with the tire mounted (shorter side wall), the rotational weight of the wheel actually slowed the car down.
17's are your best bet, plus 17's are usually a lot less expensive
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that said, the GRM test was with a 3-series BMW, IIRC, which has quite different handling characteristics from the maxima.
that also said, I prefer a 17" wheel for track to an 18. A bit more sidewall to play with and lighter weight.
To the OP, keep in mind that the tires you use for the track are going to get torn up pretty good, so you probably don't want to use the same tires you use for daily driving. Get yourself a good A/S tire for the 18s daily driving and pick up some cheap 17s with Hankook 212s or Azenis 615s for the track. I prefer a 17x8 with 245/45/17 rubber...our front-heavy cars need a bit more beef up front than a 225 imo...as long as you're not constrained by classing regulations or anything.