kwd2kSE

Need some input guys. I'm going to put new tires on my 17x8, +40 offset Konig's. Currently I have Bridgestone S-03's in 245/45/17 mounted on them. I want something a little taller and definately wider, so considering moving up to 255/45/17. But what tire in this size has the most tread width? Although the manufacturer will show this size on the tire, the actual tread and section width varies GREATLY from one tire brand to the next. So, the question. If you put various tires brands face-to-face in the same size(pick one for this example, say 245/45/17), which tire is the widest and puts the tread on the ground?

Or maybe this question instead, which is the narrowest ?

Don't bother saying talk to the tire retailers. They have no earthly idea, and wouldn't trust them anyway. Any first hand experience out there?