what a world of difference. The goodyears were hard as a rock, about 2/32 tread or less on them and loud. I replaced them with sumitomo htz II. very quite, smooth, and in stick. But still early only about 100miles on them now. But on tire rack can't get a better price $146 each for 255/45 18. I went one size smaller ot keep the tires this time just inside the fenders. the 2750 40 18 were right at the fenders. they never ever rubbed or hit but I like the look of just inside the fender. Wheels are 18x9 et35. I will keep everyone posted on the tires but seem a good choice so far.. Anyone else ever use them? I was thinking the F3 goodyears but I think that would be overkill for me not tracking the car and only like to have fun once in a while.. family to think about you know..

not much a diff maybe a 1/4 inch if that but just enough to be inside the fender as oppossed to on the edge. I will take pics and post later.

although not all manufacturers seem to measure size the same, just like clothes.

In addition, the section width is valid only when the tire is mounted on the "design" rim width. For the 255/45-18, the design rim width is 9"; for the 275/40-18, it's 9.5". Mounting the 275/40-18 on a 9" rim would result in a section width somewhat less than 275mm.

<img src="http://www.tirerack.com/images/tires/tiretech/tire_dimen.gif"><ul><li><a href="http://www.tirerack.com/a.jsp?a=AR4&amp;url=%2Ftires%2Ftiretech%2Ftechpage.jsp %3Ftechid%3D7">Calculating Tire Dimensions</a></li></ul>

<center><img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/80635/255front.jpg"></center><p>there is a slight diff..here is the front

<center><img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/80635/2552.jpg"></center><p>to compare to the 275 40.. very little diff but just enough