Opinions and input - 205s up front/225s rear on 202? non-staggered wheels

[Will_w202]

I have the 17x7.5 AMG split-spokes all-around. I currently run 225/45 Pilot Sport A/S. Car has Bilstein HDs, so with this combo, I can do some pretty ridiculous cornering over stock. One thing I always noticed since adding the 17s 90k miles ago is that the right-front rubs when doing low-speed turns. Not sure why, but it's not a severe problem, just notable. I was thinking of going to a 205 all around to reduce drag/increase economy (this is a daily driver, not something I am trying to rice-out, so not like I NEED max cornering grip anyway), but then I thought.........

Perhaps on my non-staggered rims, I could drop to the narrowest size up front, 205, and leave 225s on the rear, which would in all likelihood increase the balance of my handling (rear drive car, skinnier tires up front, less oversteer, correct?) and may ALSO have the side benefit of eliminating the rub.

Hmm........is this a valid proposition or am I smoking?

[RemoLexi]

I think you can pull it off, ive got 225 on 8.5 front rims so Im sure you can do 205 on 7.5 front rims. just say goodbye to any thoughts of a confortable ride and keep your eye out for those pot holes!

[OCKlasse]

Originally posted by RemoLexi
I think you can pull it off, ive got 225 on 8.5 front rims so Im sure you can do 205 on 7.5 front rims. just say goodbye to any thoughts of a confortable ride and keep your eye out for those pot holes!

As I tell anyone without staggered wheels, why not enjoy the fact that you can rotate your tires? If you're looking for a staggered look, run spacers in the rear.

As far as your rubbing goes, there is something else going on, because I was at this height with 225/45s with ZERO rubbing.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v373/trefiveincognito/C230/DSC05623.jpg

[OzC36]

I've had 17 x 7.5 AMGs on a C200 and a CLK320. I have run both cars with 235/40 all round and also I have run 225/45 front and 245/40 rears.

I preferred the latter combination for looks, handling and comfort and also especially as they are closer to standard MB sizes.

[Will_w202]

Originally posted by OzC36
I've had 17 x 7.5 AMGs on a C200 and a CLK320. I have run both cars with 235/40 all round and also I have run 225/45 front and 245/40 rears.

I preferred the latter combination for looks, handling and comfort and also especially as they are closer to standard MB sizes.

Good to know. So, what difference in feel and handling did you notice with this hybrid-staggering setup?