295/45 vs 295/35

[awesomedre]

can someone explain why everybody say's the 45 is better than the 35?

[tripower]

Possibly more sidewall.

[Ralph LoGrasso]

As tripower said, it's probably because of the larger aspect ratio, which they probably think will contribute a bit more sidewall flex, and overall better handling. Make note though, a 295/45/18 (I assume you're refering to 18" wheels) is a pretty tall tire. 28.4" Overall Diameter. A 295/35/18 is certainly no rubber band tire, either. I've got 295/35s on my '01 SS and the rear sidewall is pretty meaty. O.D. is 26.1"

For a direct sidewall comparison -- 295/45/18 has 5.2" of sidewall where as a 295/35/18 has 4.06" of sidewall.

IMHO, to pull off a 295/45/18 in the looks department, you'll need a tire upfront that has atleast 4" of sidewall.

[airrj1]

IMHO, to pull off a 295/45/18 in the looks department, you'll need a tire upfront that has atleast 4" of sidewall.

I have 295/45-18 in the rear on my Chevelle with a 275/40-17 up front. The calculated sidewall height on the fronts is 4.3". I wish I could have found a little taller front tire. So, I would have to agree with Ralph's comments. It isn't bad, but it could be a better balance in my opinion.

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?t=10366

As far as why you would run a 45 over a 35, I don't have any real world experince between the two to help you with that decision. I went with thte 45 because it was available at the tim that I bought the tires and I like the taller sidewall look on my car. I will say that I am happy my tire selection so far.

I wish I could add more. Good Luck.