I'm considering getting a set of Kumho Ecsta MX tires for my Base Z, but after a lot of poking around, they don't seem to make them in the exact size for the 17" Base model wheels. They DO have them in 225/45-17 and 235/45-17, and if I remember correctly, the 45 refers to the wall "height", so I'm assuming that the extra 5 millimeters in overall diameter would not matter significantly.

I wanted to post the question out there to make sure that I'm right on this. I autox about once a month for fun, so I want something that will handle well, but not cost me a fortune. I have Blizzaks for winter driving, so all season is not an issue for me. Can anyone help me out and let me know if these will be good for my needs?

Thanks!

 

Can anyone help me out on this? I'd really like to order these tires today if I can.

 

The second number is called the aspect ratio, and yes, it pertains to your sidewall size. So in your case, the sidewall height can be calculated by multiplying the tire width to the aspect ratio (235*.45).

Keep in mind that every tire is different, and has a different rollinng circumference, despite having a "size".

 

So as far as these tires are concerned, would the difference between this, and the stock sizes (225/50-17 and 235/50-17) have a significant affect on handling? I'm truly a beginner when it comes to knowing what adjustments in tire sizes will do to handling...

If you wouldn't recomend this as a possible tire size, are there other sizes of these tires that might work?

To put a bit of perspective on this, my current tires are absolutely shot, and the dealer has had replacements on "back order" for a month now. I want to call him up and tell him to cancel my order for the rears (450 or so for 2 rear tires, and I'm getting the fronts for free) so I can buy something a little better, and actually have a chance of getting summer tires on before I have to switch to my winters...

 

the stock 225/50s are 26.3" in outer diameter. BTW, the stock 18s are 26.8". The only 17" tire that I can find that would be wider than your stock tire would be a 255/45/17. That size is 26.0" in OD, and would probably work OK, and would fit your stock 8" wide rear wheels. You should however, match the front and rear tread (IE same brand & model). Good Luck.

Lou

 

If I went with the 255/45-17's on the rear, what would you recomend for the fronts?

I would certainly plan to match the tires, I basically want to tell the dealer (who has been really yanking me around) to cancel my order, and keep the fronts, so I can get better tires all around.

 

I'd stay with the stock size 225/50/17s in front. Your dealer may buy in on this. Don't give up on that avenue. Remember, he's getting remibursed by the factory. Try to work with him.

Lou