jsnbd3ll

First off, I am new to the forums. I just picked up an 05 GT Whitewater pearl RX-8. The odometer reads 9500 but she just got a brand new engine from Mazda. She is a beauty and so much fun to drive. (Switched from a Chevy Silverado to the RX-8 )

So, here is where I need your guys opinions. I just picked up a set of Imola rims and am looking at throwing tires on them and have had three different tire shops tell me three different tires on them. Please chime in on your thoughts. Thanks.

Rims
Front is 18x8mm
Rear is 18x9.5mm

Shop #1
Rear must be 250/45 = $272/tire

Shop #2
Rear must be 245/40 = $190/tire

Shop #3
Front must be 245/40
Rear must be 275/35
Total cost = $900

Please post thoughts! Thanks.

Fanman

These guys that are telling you 245 on a 9.5" rim are on crack. I have 265's on mine, and they are too narrow. For a better look (& performance) go for 275/35/18's. Shop #3 is right. Though I hope they are giving you good tires for $900.

jsnbd3ll

Thanks for the response. The tires shop #3 wanted to use are the BF Goodrich g-force sport and they would transfer the tpms to the new rims for an additional $50. I am thinking of taking their and your suggestion but finding better prices.

alnielsen

iTrader: (4)

I think the decision to use staggered sized wheels is not correct. The handing on the car is neutral and it isn't over powered. There isn't a need to run staggered and it will change the handling characteristics.

NotAPreppie

I'm guessing he doesn't care as much about handling as he does about looks.

KimiFelipe

+1

9.5 is pretty absurd - this car doesn't have enough power to require something that wide, but to each his own.

Are you sure the rims fit on the back? Is the offset low enough? If the rims fit, then the tire size suggested above will give you the same radius as stock, which is what you need.

MHO, ditch these rims and get a set that fit.



Finally, no one can tell you if the tire prices they are quoting you are good or bad deals because you dont mention the tire being offered.

You obviously dont know what you're doing, so unless you just dont care about the money, you should post again and tell us what you are looking for in your tires, tell us what they are offering you, and then we can help you out with figuring out what tire to get.

Otherwise you are just pissing in the wind, and you should just send me $5000 and I will personally hook you up with bitchin' set of wheels and tires. LOL

Seriously, you dont know what you are doing. Dont purchase until you do.

Check out the tirerack.com website, there is all kinds of info there that you need to learn before moving away from stock. Most people dont do this, and some of those people end up hurting themselves or their cars by putting equipment on that doesn't fit.

Nopstnz

agreed. do not get wider rear tires.