---- Ben T <syncro@GMAIL.COM> wrote:
> I would imagine there will be some difference in handling and acceleration with the smaller tire being able to take off slightly faster. Cornering should be slightly better with the wider thread.
>
> It's important to understand the numbers. For example:
>
> 185/70/14    Overall height is 24.2"
> 5.1" (129.5 mm) sidewalls
>
> vs.
>
> 205/70/14    Overall height is 25.3"
> 5.7" (143.5 mm) sidewalls
>

Ben, I believe that the original tire size is 185/R14, not 185/70R14.  The aspect ratio of an LT tire that is denominated as 185/R14 is 82.

> Keep in mind that these are estimates as tire sizes can differ between manufacturers. The taller side walls will tend to have more sidewall flex which can detract from good handling. That can be "fixed" with thicker sidewalls but results in a heavier tire. Heavier tire increases unsprung weight. Although that small of a change may not be perceptible to a driver with a heavy Westy, it affects handling adversely in lighter vehicles.
>
> I'm guessing seat-of-the-pants feel will seem unaffected as far as handling. However, you might notice the difference in acceleration -- unless you are running an engine which is later than stock.
>
> BTW, stock alloys are lighter than steelies. Add to that the "lighter" tire in Harold's example below and some might find their '91 Westy has a new spring in its step when going up freeway ramps. ;-)
>
> BenT
> sent from my electronic leash
>
> On Apr 16, 2013, at 7:54 AM, Harold Teer <teer.vanagon@GMAIL.COM> wrote:
>
> > Just to muddy the waters, my 91 Westy was sold by VW with steel wheels
> > (rims?) and 205R14 tires.
> >
> > When I bought stock alloy's I switched the 185R14 Hankooks I had on the
> > steel to the alloys and really saw no difference in handling.

--
David McNeely