gator03ll

will soon be changing the wheels on my 2001 a4 with the 17" sport package from the 17" OEM rims and tires to 16" with all season tires (probably sp 5000's). can anyone tell me am i going to get a significant raise in comfort? also, as a general rule, how much less susceptible to pothole damage will 16" rims be compared to 17"?

thanks!

ex-quattro PETE

You'll certainly feel more comfy on 16s, especially if the roads in your area are bad. Whether you'll find it 'significant', you can only answer yourself after you try it. And yes, less rim, more rubber = less likelihood that your rims will get bent.

FYI, I'm comparing my summer 225/45/17 S-03s (very stiff sidewalls) with my winter 205/55/16 Pilot Alpins (soft sidewalls, like most all-season tires).

jprice@CPS

I recommend the Nokian WR V rated (not H) over the SP5000s.

The taller sidewalls of 16" over 17" will absorb more bumps and road irregularities.. it will be smoother.. less pothole damage prone (but still possible).. though that does depend quite a bit on the wheel.

gator03ll

thanks for the replies. i've started doing some searches to find a concensus on a good quiet all season tire. there isn't any! at least none that i can find. after some soul searching, i've decided (pathetically) that quiet and comfort is my biggest priority in my new tires. bearing that in mind, anyone with an opinion on the best all-season tire for me? thanks!

ex-quattro PETE

not sure what size you're looking for - 205/55 or 225/50. Assuming the first one, there is Nokian WR, Dunlop SP5000, Michelin Pilot Sport A/S, Falken 512.

Nokians will probably fare the best in snow, but may sacrifice a little bit more of dry grip/handling in the summer. The other three may be slightly worse in snow, but will probably handle better in the summer. Take your pick.

If low noise and comfort is your top priority, then also have a look at Yokohama AVS dB S2, although their winter performance is probably subpar compared to the tires I listed above. I guess you can't have it all, but then again, I've never heard anyone complain about noise or comfort of the SP5000s or MPS A/S. In size 205/55/16, personally, I think I'd either go with SP5000 or WR, depending on how severe your winters are. Of course, if I lived in the snow country, I would not use all-season tires during winter at all.

Good luck.