The leech effect

[NigelA]

This is really a follow-on to the thread, 'New tyres - scraping the wheel arch'

Yes, I have set up to change the tyres to 205/55's. However, as I use these Continental 205/60's, I find that whilst they do scape the trim on the inside of the wheel arch, but only on full lock, the difference in road holding is incredible. This thing really glues itself to the ground and is far more sure footed.

Question. What disadvantages, (apart from touching the wheel arch trim, might there be from keeping the 205/60s. i.e Are they so wide as to affect the cold air being funneled via the front scoop to the brakes?

2nd question. If the answer to Q1 is positive, is it feasable to get the trim re-shaped (i.e if it is fibreglass) to avoid the tyre touching it?

Mind you, they make the car look really squat (by my standards) and purposeful - that is without putting 16" rims on and low profile tyres etc.