JMR: I ,like Dr.Eric, live in New england, and on my 02 Aero elected to go with dedicated 205/55/16 tires on Saab alloy wheels,rather than the wider 215s that some have talked about, and also ultimatelyrejected the 17 inch stock size package for winter use. Like Eric said, the taller aspect ratio and narrower tire will serve you better in actual snow, while it might give up a little grip on dry roads. If you think that you will actually be driving on snow, the 205/55 package might be best. I had it on my last 9-5 for four winters, and it never let me down.
I went with the Saab supplied Gislaved package, but just about any of the Tire rack offered packages will work well. One other factor recently influenced my decision. I just had to have three out of four Ronal R-7 wheels repaired due to inside rim damage that resulted from low tire pressure. this is on smooth pothole free roads. Exposing the 17 inch rim with low profile sidewalls to typical winter road conditions is almost guaranteed to hurt some rims,unless you are ultra carefull. I like my odds better with the 16 inch wheel in these conditions.
BY the way,an interesting comparison. While the Dunlop SP 9000 tires on my Ronal wheels are the ultimate grip on both dry and wet roads, for a week I had my stock wheels on with the Primacy tires, and they ride far far better than the Dunlops, and are also quieter. This might be the best Michelin I have tried.I'd keep them if I were you.

posted by 24.128.253...

• New question about tires for Aero (I searched!!), JMR, Fri, 11 Oct 2002 17:22:35
  • Answer to an earlier question of yours ..., J, Sat, 12 Oct 2002 13:44:34
  • There's more to living through the winter than traction, Stephen Goldberger, Sat, 12 Oct 2002 12:18:57
  • I see why you were concerned ..., J, Fri, 11 Oct 2002 19:59:08
  • Re: New question about tires for Aero (I searched!!), Lou, Fri, 11 Oct 2002 19:51:55 <-- Viewing This Message
  • Thanks Eric & J; follow-up question..., JMR, Fri, 11 Oct 2002 18:16:28
    • You're welcome!...., Dr. Eric Strauss, Fri, 11 Oct 2002 20:25:19
    • alas ... I live in sunny California ..., J, Fri, 11 Oct 2002 18:58:46
  • there's nothing wrong with asking questions ..., J, Fri, 11 Oct 2002 18:00:27
  • Never feel shy about asking a question!!, Dr. Eric Strauss, Fri, 11 Oct 2002 17:55:34

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