Which tire do you think would give the "smoother" ride;
215/50R 17 Dia.= 25.5 or
215/60R 16 Dia.= 26.2

Not looking for aggressive driving, just a quiet smooth ride maybe take out some of the bumps and vibration.

 

The rule of thumb is...the taller the sidewall, the smoother the ride...so the 16" tires will give a slightly smoother ride.

The type of tire makes a difference too, "Touring Tires" ride better than "Performance Tires", and plain old "Passenger Tires" will give a softer ride than either of the aforementioned varieties. But you'll sacrifice handling and lose the very competent manners of the HHR chassis if you go with a tire that's too compliant and "floppy" for the lack of a better term.

 

X2 what 843de said, I have stayed with the 16 rims BFG Advantage T/A's they ride smooth and handle well in dry , rain and snow! just my .02 cents worth, I'm sure we all have out favorite tire brands, I have had Firestones, Goodyears and Michelins and the BFG's have been the best so far, for me and my driving style.

 

I used the calculator and just want a couple opinions. I'm buying a set of 16s and want plenty of tire. These sizes are pretty what and what but just looking through all the threads this isn't a size I've seen anyone use. I've found the size for sale so I know it's not a wacked out size. These sound right? Also, the 18" wheel and tire size is what I have now

 

215/60R16 will be very tight and may rub on the spring perch of the front strut. I have been very happy with 205/60R16, only slightly larger in diameter than the stock 215/55R16 and now the speedo is PERFECT. Also slightly narrower so better in snow. Factory Firestone’s sucked. BFG Advantage T/A's were better, but Pirelli Cinturato P4 205/60R16 are running quieter, sticking better dry and snow, and lasting longer. Also were cheaper than the BFG’s.

Yeah, yeah, I know, it’s an old thread I inadvertently stumbled upon. Wrote this before I realized it. Still true, so...