I'm running 16x7 Enkei RS wheels (+20 offset) in the FRONT of my S5 TII. The tires I currently have on are 205/55/16 sized. I'm trying to decide between both 16" Falken Azenis sizes...

16" Azenis' are only offered in 205/55 and 215/45 sizes. Which of these tires would be a better choice for steering response. I was originally thinking the 215/45 size would offer greater grip at the slight expense of slower steering response, while the 205/55 would offer better steering response at the expense of grip...

Also, a 205/55 tire should be able to utilize as much contact patch as is possible on a 16x7" wheel, while the 215/45 would probably stretch the sidewall a bit and make it rounder, offering less of it's contact patch available... correct?

Anyone able to help me decide between which size and why you would choose that size? Remember, this is only for the FRONT wheels.

 

The problem really is the tire diameter difference between the two. If you are grip driving i would suggest the symmetrical sizing. Now for drifting the 215/45/16 should not slow your steering response that much and it will fit fine on the 7" wide wheel. Now if you have ABS I would suggest doing symmetrical as well. We ran an FC like this for drift as well. 215/45/16 front and 205/55/16 rear. All depends on functions i guess.

 

I'm finding that the steering feel AND response is a bit numb on the FC... even with the lesser offset wheels in front (steering response and feel was worse with stock wheels in front). This is why I'm trying to decide which tire to go with to help with this problem.

I'm running GAB adjustable shocks with Ligier springs on otherwise totally stock suspension. Also, ABS was deleted because it was leaking.

I'm not doing any specific type of driving. Just trying to make a car that is more fun to drive whenever and wherever. Basically a car I can toss into a turn and have it react as a 1st Gen Rx7 or Miata, and at the same time, if driven smoothly, can be quite fast.

Perhaps I'm expecting too much from late 80's technology..?

 

Bump

 

Anyone?