205/60/16 instead of 215/55/16 ???

[thanpto]

Hi, I am short on cash and was wondering if I can use 205/60/16 size instead of 215/55/16 stock size. The tire size calculator indicates that this size is very close to the stock size (it's off by +.9mph at 60mph). I am just interested of any possible problems with looks and performance. Please help. Any suggestions on other cheaper sizes and places of purchase (other than discounties, whalen, and tirerack) is welcome. Thanks

[thanpto]

Come on guys. No one has tried or have any commons on this size?

TTT

[Tripower]

Why go smaller? In all honesty, the difference in price depending on brand between the 215/55 and the 205/60 shouldn't be that much. If it is, go with a 225/55 or a 225/50 as there are many brands in those sizes and should be cheaper.

Go larger as the cost is negligible. That's my $.02.

[NYCe MaXiMa]

you'll be fine

this size will actually be more fit for winter driving. Being the tire has a smaller width and a slightly bigger turning diamter, both of which would be a plus for snow..

they'll look a little off though, the 60 profile will buldge and make the wheels look smaller, plus it'll look like a monster truck

personally i'd stick with the factory size, there are probably more, and better tires available in the 215/55/16 size. Price shouldn't be that big of a difference.. i rather spend an extra 50$ for the set and have the proper size, better tire and look better.

[n2oMike]

The Kumho 716 has an excellent track record. It's an all season tire with a 380 treadwear, and has excellent feedback from the customers at tirerack.

Below are the sizes and pricing. Oh, they don't list the 215/55/16, but do list the 225/55/16. The difference in size is not even significant, (0.3" taller) and the price is only $63. The Dunlops are $91 each. I can buy them installed and balanced from the local tire store for $84 each... which is about what shipping and installation would cost going through tirerack... without the hassle!

They are going through a name change on the tires. They are removing the 'ectsa' part of the name, and just calling them the Kumho HP4 716. Tirerack still has both listings, so if one show out of stock, refer to the other.

Here are all of the sizes and prices...

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/Sizes....=Ecsta+HP4+716

Here are the condensed customer survey results...

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires....tnum=255HR6HP4

Below is Tirerack's personal survey (feedback) from their customers on this tire.

http://www.tirerack.com/survey/Surve...ommentStatus=P

The Dunlop A2's are also excellent tires.

Good Luck!

[thanpto]

Thanks for the input, guys. The difference between 205/60/16 and 215/55/16 for the Dunlop A2's is $15 per tire. I'll probably go with the 215/55/16 since it's a more common size and will look better.

Concerning the Kumho 716's, does any one have extensive experience of these on snow/rain? Many org'ers dislike Kumho's when the temperature drops. Tirerack reviews are few and no too many comment on these tires on snow.

[n2oMike]

Originally posted by thanpto


Concerning the Kumho 716's, does any one have extensive experience of these on snow/rain? Many org'ers dislike Kumho's when the temperature drops. Tirerack reviews are few and no too many comment on these tires on snow.

The Kumho tires that people have problems with in cold weather are the 712's, also known as the 'Supras'. They truly suck in the cold and snow. The 716 is an 'H' rated all season tire that does great in the rain, and handles cold weather just fine. (MUCH better than the 712's) The tread also lasts a lot longer.

Did you try all the above links to Tirerack's feedback? There are all sorts of reviews. Most people really like these tires! Some comment that they handle almost as well in the rain as on dry pavement. I have a couple on the back of my car (Firestone Winterfires on the front) and they do great.

Good Luck!