Hey guys... I just purchased a set of chrome z06 wheels. They're on their way, and now all i need is a nice set of tires.. All 4 or the rims are 18 x 9.5 Can anyone recommend a size? Are 275s too big for the front? What can i put on there without them lookin too small or too wide..? While you're thinkin about it, what brand should i look into? It's my daily driver and i do not wanna buy tires every 3 months.. but i still want a real nice tire.
Anything would help. Thanks, Grant

 

You need to match the outside diameter of the stock tire, which for a 245/50-16 is 25.6". That means there are only about three sizes to consider for the 18x9.5" wheels, and that would be:

245/40-18 (Tire Rack shows 37 tires in this size), fits rim 8 - 9.5" rim. Exactly matches stock tire diameter.

275/35-18 (Tire Rack shows 23 tires in that size), fits a rim 9 - 11" wide. Exactly matches stock tire diameter.

285/35-18 (10 tires at Tire Rack), fits a rim 9.5 - 11" wide. About 1% larger than stock... not a problem.

275's will definitely fit in the front, as long as they are the same diameter as stock. The SS and WS6 coupes came with 275/40-17 as stock, and that also is a 25.6" diameter tire.

Where you can get into trouble in the front is IF the offset on the wheels is not correct. Some 18x9.5 C5 wheels have a 65mm offset, and that places the wheel/tire too close to the inner fender and steering knuckle. Some people have found it necessary to install spacers, which is generally not a good idea.

 

That helped a lot!! Thanks!!!! I should be alright, i just checked and the wheels have a 56mm offset... I'm probably gonna go with the 275s (maybe 285s) not too sure yet, but that really helped, thanks again... Grant