Tire size question

[OB6]

I'm about to order tires -- it's about time, given it's been almost two years since I started this build. I've got the 18" FFR wheels and I'm going with the Falken 615K+ tires because the price is right and they'll do what I need for now.

The rear is easy: 315/30r18

I have a few choices for the front:


245/40r18 - 25.6" / 8-9.5" rim / 9.8" section width
265/35r18 - 25.4" / 9-10.5" rim / 10.6" section width
275/35r18 - 25.6" / 9-11" rim / 10.8" section width


I'm inclined to go with the 245's, as I always liked a square fitment when I auto-crossed, but that was a Miata which had very little in common with this car (wheelbase aside). Plus I won't be auto-crossing this car, at least in the foreseeable future. I have the FFMetal F-panels, so I shouldn't have an issue with the 265's or 275's, but it seems those would be quite pinched on the 9" wheel.

Thoughts? Experiences? I really don't want to overthink this.

Thanks.

[Jeff Kleiner]

The 615 is a good choice and either the 265 or 275 will be fine on a 9" rim. I ran 275/40-17 on 9s in the front of mine and they weren't pinched.

Jeff

[OB6]

The 615 is a good choice and either the 265 or 275 will be fine on a 9" rim. I ran 275/40-17 on 9s in the front of mine and they weren't pinched.

Jeff

Thanks Jeff -- very helpful.

[CraigS]

For many years 275s were more or less the standard size on 9" wheels.

[OB6]

For many years 275s were more or less the standard size on 9" wheels.

I remember that. I'll probably go with the 265's, if for nothing else they're $75 cheaper per tire.

[CraigS]

Yes a 265 will be fine. .2" OD and .2" tread width reduction will never be noticed on the street.

[OB6]

Got the tires today. 315's and 265's.

209927

209926