Tires - Final opinions on 145 vs. 155 80R 12" for 90 Fe

[SLW in Oregon]

I wanted to post this separate from my power steering question. Just a quick final survey on pro's and con's of 12" (stock size) 145 vs 155 tires for my 90 Festiva. I've read all the threads on tire sizes and mpg and size ratios and prices and availability. I can get either set for the same price - $125 all four, m&b + all warranties. That said, which one would be better for performance, traction, longevity of car, etc. Not counting the obvious size/ratio differences, would one tire give better mileage than the other as ericsmith suggested (he thought the 155's would be better mileage).

I am getting tires tonight, just find it hard to decide. Two many choices.

Thanks again for help and opinions. I'm really starting to enjoy my Festy. 1990 - 100,000 original miles. Bright yellow with pink swirly stripes on sides. Real cute and zippy. Am still on first tank of gas - anxious to check mpg.

[Tim]

What it depends on is availability and preference.

If there's an abundance of 145s and few 155s, go with the 145s, or vice versa.

My personal preference would be the stock 145s simply because they don't throw the speedometer .


Regards,

Tim

[Safety Guy]

There were two wheel widths offered on Festiva 12" wheels:

Base models had the thinnest at 4" wide (steel).

LX/GL models had either alloy or steel wheels at 4.5" wide.


I'd say if you have the thin wheels to go ahead and get the 145s, which IMO, will "fit" better (just a guess).

If you have the LX/GL spec wheels, I'd get the 155s, which should "fit" better on the slightly wider wheels.

It probably doesn't matter much though.

If you have the wider wheels and can get a good price on the 165/70s, then I'd go for them. Doubtful. They're getting scarce, as are other tiny tires.

"Too many choices?" He he. No, we are getting fewer and fewer choices as time favors Hummer H3s, Denalis, STSs, etc.

Your situation is a bit weird, as the 145s are special order around Columbus, OH. Even the 155s seem to be rarely in stock much at some places. And don't ask about the 165/70s.

The smallest common tires nowadays are 155/80-13 and 175/70-13.

Karl

[bikemannc]

Tires: 145s vs 155s

Though 145/12s are the stock issue around these parts 155s are whats left to choose from. Wal-Mart is the only source left as Sears quit supplying these 2 years ago. Michleins were the 145s and only avail. in their "speed version" rated to handle 100mph; autobahn rated. But for $38.00 total for new tires,warranties,valves, and rotation/balanced for the life of their 40k mileage isn't like the $17.00 each Wal-Mart used to sell these 155s for, but... .You'll need a 4-wheel alignment though since you have front wheel drives.