Okay I'll try to keep this simple as possible. I acquired some G35 rims a while back and was waiting for my tires on my stock rims on a 02 SDE to wear out then replace them with the new rims and new tires. Well the time has come and unfortunately money is short right now. My budget was $425 MAX for just tires and I'm sticking to that.

I have decided to go with General Exclaim or Sumitomo HTR+ or any other good tire in the price range. Now my dilemma is DO I have to go with 235/40/18 or can I put on 225/40/18? I ask because if I was to go with the Generals, I can save almost $100 by buying 225's. I would like to save as much money as possible that's why I'm raising this question of 225 vs. 235.

P.S. - I do not auto-x or any high speed driving. My usual commute is slow traffic, sub-45mph driving daily. I might go over 60 mph once a week or so. I do not do any aggressive driving so performance is not a concern with the tire. All I really want is comfort, ride quality, and low noise. Any help would be appreciated guys. thanks alot!

 

You can get by with the 225s. The only thing is you won't have nearly as much sidewall to cushion the road imperfections. However, the 225s will track less than the 235s (follow ruts in the road). I'd go with 225/45/18 over 225/40/18, though. You'll gain some extra sidewall. I ran 225/45 with I first got my G 18s. You may also want to look for some used tires to keep the wallet a little fatter... Try Ebay, this, and other forums.

In regards to your driving habits, I've AX-ed using both 235/40/18 Exclaim UHPs and 225/45/18 Pilot Sports A/S. (for you AXers out there, yes, I need better tires on light rims... I know!)

 

either will work fine. choose whatever fits your budget.

 

For ride purposes you should fit 225/45 into your comparison. 225/40 will be fine but as already stated there is little sidewall, so they won't exactly be a forgiving tire, ride-wise.

 

So which size would be more comfortable and less noisey? 225/45 or 235/40?

 

225/45.

 

Yep, on both accounts.

 

Yeah after searching through some tire size calculators, it seems as if the 225/45 has about 102mm of sidewall as compared to 94mm from 235/40.

I asked because I can save over $40 by going with 225/45. Do you guys recommend it over 235/40? Also what do you guys think about the General Exclaim UHP?

 

we already recommended the 225/45 for you. what more do you want. and search on the general exclaim UHP. PLENTY of reviews.