I want to take my 17" off and put a set of snow tires and steel wheels for the winter. I looked at tire rack and the options are 215/55-16 or 215/60-15. my question is which is better the 16" or the 15". I know the handling will make a diffenence but i am getting ready to a PA winter and not to concerned too much about that since handling will be lost with putting on a snow tire. The biggest reason is that tires for the 15" are cheaper so when i have to replace the 17" tire i will have some money. I thought i would ask you guys your options to help me make a decision.

Oh yes which brand of tires have any of you have as a winter tire
Dunlop Graspic
Bridestone Blizzak
Micheline Pilot Alpin
Dunlop Winter Sport M3

 

That's a good question actually. I'm surprised nobody has chimed in. Tire Rack seems to suggest 15's on steel rims for winter tires, but they don't really say why. Probably just because it's the cheapest way to go, but is there another reason for going a size smaller rims (taller sidewall on the tires) with snow tires?

 

The 15s won't fit the front rotors/calipers, only the rears. Go with the 16s

 

You'll need to purchase a set of 16" wheels.