what is pro of 225/50 ? better grip?
what is con of 225/50 ? worse gas mileage? if so, how much worse?

should I just stay stock?


btw, 98 SE getting Kumho 712's. thanks!

getting them from tirerack...any recommendations on reps there and what should I pay for shipping?

 

I stuck with 215-55 just becuase I did not want to throw of my speedometer.

 

I run 225/55-16 on SE rims. I'm not sure if there's a noticeable difference in gas mileage though.

 

...to add to your list..
215/55 - slighty softer ride than 225/50...stiffer suspension will pronounce this difference.
215/55 - slightly less road noise than 225/50
215/55 - slightly better traction in slippery condition than 225/50
215/55 - slightly less traction in dry condition than 225/50
215/55 - slightly less responsive with initial turn-in than 225/50

...again differences are only SLIGHTLY

 

All of the above plus the difference in the speedo is only 2%. I also got 28mpg on the last tank with 225's.

If there's an NTB around you, you can go there tell them the Tirerack price and they will match it plus $10/tire and you can get them right there and not have to deal with shipping.

 

I got 225 50 16s and I recommend staying with 215 55 16s. The reason being is that it looks pretty odd with 225 rims buldging off the sides. Ontop of that, the overall diameter is a tad smaller so it looks like your car is jacked up even more. Next time I'm doing 215 55 16.

 

Jacked up look solved with a set of H&R's

 

WOW! thanks for the great info!! I have decided to go stock with 215/55 and get the Kumho 712's. I called NTB and they don't carry them but will mount and give lifetime balance and rotation for around $83 which will would cost me a total of about $415. $75 X 4 plus $33 shipping plus $80 mount/bal. OR there is a local shop that has Kumho 712's that he says are Z rated??? Is he mistaken or is there a 712 ZR. Tirerack has WR. His total out the door for tires mount and lifetime balance is $420... This sounds good but not if it is a Z rated quick wearout tire. Heard of a Kumho 712 Z?