Tires: Tire Size, mario andretti, bridgestone turanza

Question
Thanks, Andrew.

You're correct, the 1.7 was only available in Canada as a glorified version of the Civic.  

I don't drive like Mario Andretti, but my reason for condsidering the up sizing is if one tire would provide any better handling, ride/comfort or performance.


Ray  


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Followup To
Question -
Hello.

I have a 2002 Acura 1.7 (a Honda Civic with a slightly more powerful engine).  The original tire size of 185/65/R15.  I understand there wouldn't be a problem using a lower profile tire 195/60/R15.

Would there be much benefit in going with the lower profile?

Thanks.
Answer -
Well, Hello Ray! As far as the answer to your question, you are correct. You can change sizes to the 195/60r15, that is called one up sizing. However you are going to lose about 1/4 inch in total diameter, but will gain that back in width just barely though. If I understand the 1.7 is/was mainly sold in Canada, so I'm not quite sure about the speed rating on the Original Equipment tires. You will want to stay with that same speed rating. May I ask why you are wanting to change sizes?

Answer
Ray, you will get a slight better bit in handling and cornering because of the lowered height of the sidewall, but you may lose the same amount of ride quality and comfort because the height of the sidewall will act as a buffer between the road and the rim. The main thing to remember is the quality of tire that you choose will have the biggest effect. If it were my car, I would look at a tire such as the Bridgestone Turanza LS-H or the Michelin Energy MXV4, both of these tires are great tires and will out perform almost all other tires. They may cost a little more, but are worth it in what you will get out of them. Let me know if I can help any further!

Andrew :)