Low-profile tire switch
 

Hi Luke,

Quick question, i wanna switch from low-profile tires 225-45-17 , on my 1998 C230, I want to keep my sport wheels 17", but no longer want low-profile.
Is it possible to switch to 205-55-17 or something like that.

Please help with advise.

Reason for wanting to switch is need for comfort.

Thanks.

http://www.sstire.com/tireheights.html This chart should help you find the tire you want and still retain your speedometer accuracy.

205/50/17 would give you the same diameter but, both tires have a 4.0" high sidewall, so as far as comfort, you would not be gaining anything.

thanks Ara and Manny,

Manny, what tire size do you have on your C230k?,

i think you will find the narrower tire will provide more comfort, be less costly to buy and be less sensitive to alignment and or worn parts issues.

i say go for it.

the ultra low profile tires are all about visual impact and profit for the tire mfgrs. possibly will raise skid pad results but real world difference is probably hard to notice.

tom w

Winter: 215/55/16
Summer: 225/45/17.
In my experience, there can be quite a difference in tires ( 225/45/17 ), depending on the make of tire & airpressure adjustments. ;)

i agree.

and the higher profiles will tend to be more tuned for comfort, i think, in general.

tom w

You will maintain the same sidewall height so any comfort change will come from:

a) change in tread pattern.
b) change in tyre manufacturer. Dunlop Sport 3000s are a much quieter tyre than others - and far more bareable for long journeys

However a narrow contact might help - although it may expose your wheels to the kerb!!

Your best option is to drop to a 16" rim

i think the sidewall construction might be different too. the higher profile tires will imho be a little more tuned toward comfort and a little less toward sportiness. generally.

tom w

Thanks for the chart!