Hey guys. I emailed Alex, but I thought I would throw it out here, too.

I’m looking at picking up a set of Conti DWS’s for a winter performance tire on my ’06 JCW. I’m trying to decide between the 205/45/17 and 215/45/17.

My thought was everyone complains about the steering response on the DWS, so I would get the 205 for a shorter sidewall, plus less tread squirm and lower gearing. But, I’m also putting 210-hp (and cornering forces) through the front wheels, so would the slightly additional tread width on the 215 offer more grip during acceleration?

Has anyone specifically had the DWS in these two sizes? I'll be switching from 215/45 PZero M&S's.

Thanks.

PS, I have JCW suspension with JCW cross bar and Alta 19mm rear sway, have track mode always engaged on my Ian Cull circuit and let my LSD do the work, and average 19-mpg (combined) due to my 'spirited driving' around DC. Just to give you an idea of my driving style. Thanks guys.

 

If this for snow / winter use specifically, you'll want the narrower 205/45 tire.
Acceleration grip is reduced overall due to the tire compound for colder temps.

- Erik

 

I have the Conti's on a 215, and I think the weird feeling goes away with time. They take FOREVER to break in though. They felt "squishy" on mine for about 2-3K. Now though, they are by far my favorite all season tire, ever....

 

Agreed. We don't get quite the amount of snow in DC as when I lived in CO (and where you are, Erik), so my main trade off concerns b/n the 205 and 215 is 'potentially' better steering response/less tread squirm/lower gearing in the 205, vs 'potentially' more absolute grip with the 215.

That said, I plan to get a set of summer performance tires and wheels for when temps are above 45-F and there's no snow.

Right now, I'm thinking about going with the 205's, unless someone has tried both sizes in the DWS and can convince me otherwise.

Thanks guys.

 

If you are going to buy another set of summer wheels/tires, then I would get the 205s for the colder months. I am planning on getting a new set of wheels/tires for warmer weather, as well. I am currently in southern New Mexico, so I cannot see there being a ton of snow here either. Haha.

 

A benefit of the larger tire would be to reduce the speedometer error by 1 mph.

 

I run the 215 45 17 but only during the warmer months, as stated if you are going to use in the snow I would go with the 205, but to be honest DC has had some heavy snow the last few years if my memory i correct, I am not a believer in all season tires in a climate with that type of snow, i would be looking at deidcated snows. Just my opinion.