Replace 275's in the back with 245's (like front)?
Its new tire time for me. I have a '11 X3 35i with 245-45x19 in the front and 275-40x19 rear. I was considering purchasing 2 new 8.5" wheels and going with 245-45x19 all the way around. Thoughts:
- 4x - 245's are about 10% cheaper than 2x - 245's and 2x - 275's
- There is something like a 50% larger selection of 245's than 275's.
- When driving in a spirited manner, I must be very aggressive on the throttle coming out of a turn for the car to be neutral. With smaller rear tires I should be able to achieve a more neutral feel with less aggressive throttle. This would allow me to push the stability control with aggressive throttle.
- Lower overall weight, lower rotating mass, and lower aero drag. Should increase acceleration and fuel economy. By how much, I am not sure.
The down side:
- Have to buy 2 - $500 wheels.
- Potentially the car feels a lot worse on 245's all around. I doubt this as BMW ships all X3's with 245's all around now.
Options:
- I could sell or trade the 275's to someone who is interested in the wider tire / more aggressiev look.
Thoughts?
|