Let me preface this post with the following: I am not interested in effects on mpg. Or how many g's I will or wont pull. Really don't want to get into a thread like https://www.fitfreak.net/forums/2nd-...droedge-4.html

That said - I have some Nokian RSI's 205/55 R16's left from my WRX with still good tread. It would be nice to use them for at least one more season if at all possible on my 11 Sport given they are a) still good and b) cash is light right now. Eventually I would probably get some 15" steel rims and some studded Hakka 7 175/65 15s

From the above thread there is at least one person who has used this size without apparent issues from the increased diameter. Anyone else who has actually used (not thought about it) this size care to report their results?

I am also concerned that while one may be able to do normal driving with the 205/55's, the increased diameter reduces the space for snow to move through and could result in more or quicker buildup. Again, if you have used this size in the snow, how did things work out?

 

I'd say they are realistically too wide for winter snows on the fit. It's a small light car unlike the WRX. the 175s you mention are definitely a good choice. If you have little/no cash, then there's really not much choice. I went the Craigslist alloy wheel route for $50 and had sears mount some general altimaxx arctic tires. total cost was 350 or under if I remember correctly.

What's the quality of your oem tires and where do you live? I went one winter on the OEM tires with no issue, then went to snows. Maybe you can sell the 205's and make a little bit back from that, plus the savings from mounting/balancing, and find a tire shop that will match discounttiredirect.com's price on a tire and you might only have to shell out a few hundred for new snows.

~SB

 

post deleted on the grounds that what I said was dumb. I confused two different sets of tires.