New Front Tires - Question

[thstone]

Here is my experience in switching from 205/50/ZR17 to 225/45/ZR17 on the fronts of my '99 (rears remain at 255/40/ZR17);

Pros:
- Much better overall grip
- Much less understeer
- No wheel, body or suspension fitment issues on stock wheels
- Speedo/ABS unaffected
- Looks better

Cons:
- Slightly slower turn-in
- Slightly more expensive

No Difference (that I can tell):
- Braking performance/distance
- Hydroplaning in the rain on the freeway

Overall, what I noticed the most was that the 205's would turn in quickly and then plow with understeer through the turn whereas the 225's turn in slower but are able to carve the turn much better. The 225's still understeer when pushed but not nearly as soon as the 205's did. Car is much better balanced with the 225's.

I'd highly recommend the 225's in front.