Generally speaking it would make the ride softer, but a lot of this is dependent on the tire you get itself. Some tire compounds are softer than others. Personally, I'd stick with 17" and research for some softer tires (though they probably won't last as long as harder tires, generally speaking). 16" is just really small for these cars. I find 17-18" wheels looks the best proportionally.

 

And I might as well add that if you go with a 16", you will have to get new wheels as well.

I personally prefer the 17".

 

Why not just run a 215/50? Fatter sidewall there still, the width of the tire won't make much of a difference IMO

 

Changing the sidewall without changing the width will throw off the speedo and the odometer.

Even if it is only 5% more, it is not recommended.

 

Correct, that's why 215/50/17 would not be my choice. A 17" (or larger) wheel may look more impressive, but I don't consider a 16" wheel proportionally incorrect, although that's a matter of personal taste of course. Also the 2.0 Tib came standard with 16" wheels....

 

Hey there, I have similar concerns. I have an '08 V6 GT, currently running the stock wheels. The dealership had 215/45zr17 tires on and I am long overdue for fresh rubber. I'd like to get new wheels as well, so I have to ask, "What size wheel should I be looking for?"

 

I believe the stock 17" Tib wheel is 7" wide.

Most online tire places will give the standard sizes for rims (OEM sizes) and then list acceptable rim diameters/widths and correct offset's & bolt patterns.

 

Thank you. I've had the car a couple years and I'm trying to be good and just do a little bit at a time.

 

The 17s will handle better because they're wider and lower profile.

I don't see any point in downsizing to the 205/55/16s unless you wanna save money.

 

I currently run 225/45-17 tires (both summer and winter), and going with the slightly rolling circumference actually *corrected* my speedometer readings (verified by radar and gps - it always used to read high with the stock sized rubber). I find the 225/45's ride more comfortably, and they were an easier size to source. I'm running Michelin Pilot Sport AS/3's on my spring/summer/fall wheels (17x7 ET40 Enkei RS-7's) and Bridgestone Blizzak's on my stock 17's for winter, and would highly recommend both tires.