yet another winter sizing question

[fajimr]

just wondering about what to get for my winter set-up ....

I have a B7 A4 Avant with sport package, running 17" wheels. The -1 sizing that TR suggests is 215/55-16.

Is there any problem with running a narrower tire, i.e. 205/55-16?

I live in N. Utah where we get plenty of snow, but little ice. The roads are usually plowed pretty quickly here but still there is often some snow on the ground. Probably 70% of the time I drive on pavement (most of us live in the valleys where the snow melts pretty quickly).


thanks in advance
jim

[UGwagen]

only the speedometer & odometer will read faster.

[Doc@tirerack]

The 215/55R16 needs to be XL to carry the axle weight requirements. The 205/55R16 (other than being too small in diameter) falls below our minimum requirements for load capacity, and will cause the tire to wear more quickly and have a higher chance of failure at high speed. Is the 1/2" change in tread width that inportant ?

[UGwagen]

the OEM Pirelli P6 4-Seasons, interestingly enough have a load rating of 94 (SL), not the "required 97 XL"

In the European accessory catalogs from Audi (as well as VW), 205/55r16 is the recommended size for winter tires, even on cars with 215/55r16, 235/45r17 & 235/40r18

somewhat luckily for me, my 205/55r16 snow tires are 94 XL

[fajimr]

and will cause the tire to wear more quickly and have a higher chance of failure at high speed. Is the 1/2" change in tread width that inportant ?

this is the crux of my question- narrower tires are supposedly better for snow but what is the tradeoff? Although UGwagen's comment above suggests that opinions vary on this.

I'll probably stay on the safe side and go with the wider tire though.

thanks for the input
jim