315 35 17 vs. 275 40 17 Drag Radials

[jershelb]

I am considering upgrading my rear wheels to 17 x 10.5 and running 315/35/17 DRs.
What kind of difference can I expect to see out of a 315 vs a 275 width drag radial? Is it worth moving to the wider wheel, or will I be hooking about the same?
Thanks in advance,
Noob

 

[LS1toSVT]

More rubber on the ground should = more grip at the track. I loved my 315 nittos that I had on my z28.

 

[WDW MKR]

The 315 is certainly wider and will likely hook a little better, but the 275 BFG DR hooks pretty well. The 315 on a 10.5" wheel will be heavier. That all being said I love my 315 BFGs! If for nothing else, they look a hell of a lot better filling out the wheel well.

 

[corpsedub]

i am interested in this as well. but wont the 35 series rubber throw your speedo off slightly since the 17's require 40's?

 

[jershelb]

Thanks for the feedback. I just want to know if the traction increase is worth the $$$ for moving up to the wider wheel and tire. If I can hook just about as good on 275's, I dont see a point in spending money.

 

[LS1toSVT]

You will hook better with 315's, plus they look mean as all hell. I think its worth the extra $$$

-j

 

[Black2003Cobra]

i am interested in this as well. but wont the 35 series rubber throw your speedo off slightly since the 17's require 40's?

The overall diameter of the 315/35-17 and 275/40-17 work out to be just about the same.

315 Dtire = 2*0.35*(315/25.4) + 17 = 25.68”

275 Dtire = 2*0.40*(275/25.4) + 17 = 25.66”

Actual dia between manufactures may be a tad different than calculated, but they should be pretty close.

Hope that helps.