Hi, folks -- newbie questions here. I'm looking into upgrading the tires on my '04 sedan and based on reviews of members here and tirerack.com, the Eagle F1 GS-D3 is at the top of my list. My questions come from the fact that I can only find it in a 215/45R17 size, not the /55 size that comes OEM. What does this mean and is it ok to do? Next, if it's fine and doesn't matter, where is the best place to buy them?

Thanks very much,
Andy

 

I would go with 235/50/17 for an almost exact match in wheel diameter to your OEMs. That's what I use on my 6-spoke factory wheels. The 215/45/17 is going to be a little short and result in speedometer and odometer error that may not be satisfactory.

 

the widder u go...the slower u will get = )......i would go with a 225/50/17..Kumos Yokohamas are known to be pretty good too

 

Thanks for the responses. I'm wondering what size those who have purchased these tires, meaning the Eagles, have gone with. Anyone? Thanks, Andy

 

That's a bit over generalized, & not a very accurate statement.
It is based on the sidewall as well.

You need to use the manufacturers tire spec sheets, & look up
the diameter. The diameter can vary from make to make.
The stock OEM DIA is about 26.3"

The Tirerack website has most of this spec info assembled.
Here's the LINK TO GS D3 specs
From that chart you will see that the 235/50-17 is bang on.

 

Responded in your other post.

Go with the 235/50/17.

 

Dont know if this has been posted here, but this is a good tool for figuring out equivilant tire sizes.

Miata Tire Size Calculator

edit....well it was already posted here. See I told you it was good.

 

That's good tool to get you in the ball park.

Here is another
LINK

Just be sure to check the chart for the brand you want,
not every mfg. are the same & they will be slightly different
from the miata calc

 

Thanks a bunch, guys! What a great resource. You guys rock!

I'll post when I get them and present impressions of the tire.

Andy

 

The Michelin Pilot Sport A/S come in 235/50-17 and are perhaps the best rain tire on the market for our correct size. I've had mine for a year - fantastic!

 

I went with Dunlop SP Sport 5000 tires in 245/50-17 tires and are very happy with them. When I did a lot of shopping, these appeared to be the best for the money. After about 7k miles, they are great and look good to. Slightly bigger 26.6" vs 26.3" in diameter compared to factory OEM tires. Paid $151 per tire.

 

Has anyone tried the Michelin Pilot Sport 2's yet, as they are now (finally) offered in a 235/50-17 size? I'm going to buy either the PS2's or the F1-GSD3's this spring as my summer tires.

 

I put the Eagle F1 GS-D3's on my car in 225/55R17 last year. Excellent tire for aggressive driving. I've been happy with it. My local tire shop says that the Toyo T1S is now available in 235/50R17 for about $200 less for the set than I paid for the Goodyears.. so that'll probably be my next set.