im going to be in the market for tires for my 95 integra soon, and was considering doing 215/40/17s instead of the normal 205/40s since i have 7.5" rims. i know i can do 205s, but i dont like the way they look on the wider rims (i HATE the stretched look, even though it wouldnt be much).

i wanted to see if anyone else was running this size, and see if there was a huge rubbing problem? the main reason for this is i want to run either another set of dunlop direzzas, or the new direzza sport stars, neither of which come in the 205/40. any input on this desicion is great, thanks

 

I recommend sticking with 205/40-17. You really increase the chances of rubbing when you run a tire that is 20 mm wider than stock AND larger in diameter.

If you're looking for a very sticky tire like the Dunlop Direzza Sport Z1 Star Spec (as it's properly called), but in 205/40-17, the Falken Azenis RT-615 comes in that size. There are lots of very sticky tires in 15" and 16" sizes for Integras, but that's the only one I know in 205/40-17 (other than the discontinued BFG KD).

 

Yeah, I hate Dunlop's decision on size availability here as well.

If you drive an Integra, want to run the Direzza Sport Z1 Star Spec, and want to keep the correct tire diameter, you get to run 15s. They don't make a 16" size that is correct for an Integra either, and I have 8 16x7s sitting around waiting for new tires...

 

i've seen the 215 fit the integra in star spec but i have no idea what the wheel offset was. the only drawback to using a larger diameter tire is it has the same effect as gearing the car higher.

 

There are other tires similar to the Star Spec available in 16" sizes for Integras, including the Kumho Ecsta XS in 215/45-16, and the Bridgestone Potenza RE-11 and Toyo R1R in 205/45-16.

It also throws off the accuracy of the gauges (speedometer and odometer) and has reduced clearance and can result in rubbing.

 

I have 215/40/17 rt-615's on my 17x7 wheels with no issues. My offset is +42 all around and the space between the rear tires and springs is about 1 finger. Other tires to look into would be the new Hankook RS3, Bridgestone RE-11, or the Nitto NT-05