Yet another tire size thread, winter setup input needed...
 

So here's the deal. I'm looking to pickup a set of snow tires for the winter over here Northern Illinois.

I've got a 545 Sport.

I've found a killer deal on some 245/45/18's and I'm a little concerned about fitment. I know theres one guy who stated he accidentally bought 45's but they fit.

Scenario 1 - Overall the 45's are only .48" larger in diameter than the 40's at a 245. So I guess this would be .96" total. It looks like We'd have enough to clearance those, but is there anyone who can confirm a 45 sidewall would fit??

My struts are about done, so I'm thinking about replacing those as well, and without them being settled I might make it through the winter without issue, opinions?

I know the whole speedo/odometer stuff, but its only for the winter so I'm not so worried about that.


Scenario 2 - I currently have 2 245/40/18 snow tires...I plan on throwing a few sand bags in the back to weigh it down. How crazy would it be to run the 245/40/18 in the front, and the 245/45/18 in the back. I know this would make the nose dip, but with the extra weight in the back it might level out. This might also throw the computer wayyy out of wack? Im not familiar with these things. Opinions?

Thanks in advance for any input!

Go with the 245/45-18, if the deal is that great. The error on the speedometer will actually compensate for the built-in error already programmed into the speedometer with the 245/40 tires!

Do not mix sizes. Also, always use 4 winter tires not 2 as you seem to have been doing in the past. Another thing - do not put "extra weight" in the back. This will just upset the balance of the car and lead to spin outs in slippery corners.

With good winter tires, the E60 are surprisingly good in the snow, if you know what you are doing.

Salut, Bob P.