A lot of people often upgrade to a wider tire size in hopes of increasing the contact patch. Did you know that the width of the contact patch isn't entirely dependant on the tire size?

Here are some tire width specs using the OEM 195/60/15 tire size:

1) Bridgestone Potenza RE92 (OEM tire) - 5.9"
2) Bridgestone Potenza G019 Grid - 6.9"
3) Yokohama AVS ES100 - 6.8"
4) Firestone Winterforce - 6.2"

From the numbers above, you probably noticed that tread width can vary quite a bit despite the fact that all those tires are 195/60/15. Note that the OEM tire tread width is up to 1" more narrow than other tires of the same size! Anyways, this is just something to keep in mind the next time you're looking for a tire with more contact patch or a narrower tire that won't rub the fenders.

 

Yep, some tires run wider than others. My 205 Z1 Star Specs are as wide as my buddy's 225 PS2's. Each model seems to vary.

 

Also keep in mind that the total area of the contact patch is not determined by the width of the tire, only the weight placed on it and the pressure being ran. A wider tire produces a wider contact patch, but also a shorter one, keeping the size (total area) the same (when ran at the same pressure).

 

well, shape of the contact patch affects how the car handles..most people here want a short and wide one for cornering stability and traction