Stupid question, maybe. I had a '98 MC that had this size tires. I think I was running either Kumho's or Kelly's. Can't remember for sure. It seemed like you could see a "bulge" to the tire on that car. Looked like it had pretty good rubber on the road. I now have an '03 SS with that same size tire. I just got it and the tires on it are just some plain jane brand like you'd put on a family sedan. I don't see that "bulge" on these. Just kind of a flat sidewall for the most part. They are at the proper inflation by the way. So, here's my question: Why would these tires of the exact same size have such a different appearance? Is there something different to look for say on Tire Rack that would give tires of this size more of a "sporty" look and not look like something on my dad's Cadillac?

 

What width was the wheels on your first car? What about the width of the one's know? that would make all the difference! I would say the new car has a wider wheel.

 

That is a good question. The '98 had OEM wheels and so does the SS. It's the High Sport SS so it has the diamond cut aluminum ones. You may very well be right. That would make a lot of difference too.

 

To fill the wheel well running 16's, you're going to need to go bigger... 265's, 50's or 40's will fill it quite a bit more and produce that covetted bulge on the sidewall... Unfortunately you're going to raise it up and throw off your speedo by a bit... However you can lower it with springs and the look will be right and you will achieve a nice comfortable ride...... Definately old school, but still very cool...... By the way, this is what I am doing with the next tire change, presently I am running 245 50 and it's just not enough...

 

Thanks for the input. I really appreciate the advice.