Those with 205s... how do you like em? Thinking of going 205/45/R17 to save gas. - Honda Prelude Forum

devtec · 09-23-2008, 04:54 PM

How many of you have noticed anything going from stock width 205 to 215s?

Does the extra cm make that much of a difference in handling? I know 215/40/R17 is the recommended size for a 17" rim, but I'm thinking of going with a 205/45/R17 for fuel economy--decreased rolling resistance and rotating mass. I know not much of a difference, but I wonder if this little bit might help...

any input?

petern101 · 09-23-2008, 07:29 PM

It won't matter much as far as mpg goes.

I mean seriously, are you really saving more than the cost of tires (unless you are buying new tires anyways).

They also did a test on 5th gear with lower resistance tires and he ended up losing mpg and not gaining. Plus the tires cost more than normal.

devtec · 09-24-2008, 12:45 AM

no, no, this would be for my next set of tires when my current ones wear out.

petern101 · 09-24-2008, 10:45 AM

^again, I honestly don't think it makes that much of a difference. I don't like the fact that my tires are supposed to "grip" and these tires are claiming less rolling resistance.

I think you'll find the mpg savings are better with your right foot being conservative.

You can always try them out but there's pretty good theories as to why this won't help much.