Due to the pitiful conditions of the roads in northen NJ, decided to pick up a set of 16 in wheels (though in my heart I would have preferred 17's). Through Ebay picked up a set of Vision Custom wheels, 16 X 7.5 with a 38mm offset. However due to a hitch in my email SPAM filter, the seller wasn't able to inform me that these weighed in around 24 lbs apiece. Now not sure if I should go ahead with a set of 215/50/16 tires. Would the combined with the weight of the wheels and these tires be too heavy? Also while I don't think this will be a problem, has anyone used this setup and had a rubbing problem?

Otherwise guess I could go with the lighter 205/50/16. But will I have a problem with handling as the recommended "measured rim" for these tires is 6.5 inches? I know from all the posts on this forum that a 205 is more appropriate with a 7 in rim and the 215 matches a 7.5 in rim. On the other hand, there are more brands available for the 205's, especially in the "all-season" variety.

Car is mainly used for a daily commute on local roads. Occasional trips into NYC. So ability to stop quickly and out maneuver taxis essential.

It was tough enough trying to decide on what size wheels to get. Now need help in deciding what tire and which tire. Help !!!

 

Since you're worried about road conditions, I'd go with the 215/50. You're already screwed on weight, the difference between those tire sizes is nominal.

 

My rims are 16x7 with 35 offset and i have 205x50x16 tires.

this is what my setup loks like.



http://www.imagestation.com/album/?id=4287397067

 

There's only a sidewall increase of about 1/4 inch with the 215 vs the 205. As for the tread width, only a 0.4 increase. Would this make such a difference in ride comfort?

I'm also curious if you (or anyone else) knows the rough difference in weight between these two tire sizes.