Much to gain from dropping down a tyre size

[Eastman882]

I have a 16 reg Volkswagen CC which is a lovely cruiser apart from the tyre noise at times and the comfort on the bad roads in the locality. Currently it’s on 235/40R18 on an 8 inch rim. The CC was also available with a 17 inch rim also 8 inch wide. The tyre size on these is 235/44R17.

My local car breaker has a set of the 17 inch rims would there be much to Much to be gained from a comfort point of view from dropping to 17 inch alloys.

What’s a good tyre to fit in regards to noise? Not overtly concerned about performance. The quieter and longer lasting the better.
Thanks
David

[E-bmw]

Obviously with a higher sidewall to wheel ratio ride comfort will improve, but by how much you may well only find out by trying.

[PositronicRay]

It will make a difference, not a huge one but a difference nonetheless.

If your tyres are due for replacement id do it, if not wait until they are. I've been using Falkens, which give acceptable noise and comfort levels.

[Pica-Pica]

You will notice a difference. Goodyear EfficientGrips are what I have. Comfortable and quiet.

[Eastman882]

Thanks, I’ll price 225/45r17 and 234/45r17 efficient grip and see what the difference is.

[stevieturbo]

Eastman882 said:

I have a 16 reg Volkswagen CC which is a lovely cruiser apart from the tyre noise at times and the comfort on the bad roads in the locality. Currently it’s on 235/40R18 on an 8 inch rim. The CC was also available with a 17 inch rim also 8 inch wide. The tyre size on these is 235/44R17.

My local car breaker has a set of the 17 inch rims would there be much to Much to be gained from a comfort point of view from dropping to 17 inch alloys.

What’s a good tyre to fit in regards to noise? Not overtly concerned about performance. The quieter and longer lasting the better.
Thanks
David

Possibly...but equally so can tyre brands of the same size.