I recently puchased a set of wheels for my 97 240SX, 18x8.5 in the front, 18x9.5 in the rear. The offset is +35(yes, they fit).
I have plenty of clearance in the rear, but in the front I can just fit my pinky finger in between the rim and the shocks.

I need to find out what you guys recommend for tire sizes, something that fits flush with the sides of the wheels or is stretched a little.

The local tire store suggested 235/40/18 in the front, and 265/35/18 in the rear.

Thoughts, comments, and suggestions are welcome.

 

225/255 40 sidewall

 

Can you explain a little better?

The way I interpreted you post is this:

You should get 225/40/18 in the front, and 255/40/18 in the back.

If this is correct, can you explain what was incorrect about what the tire shop told me, and why the setup you suggested is a better choice?

 

Yes...your interpreted right...the reason I gave you those sizes is because they will give you a stretched look, give you more clearence, and give you cheaper tires

 

Won't that give me a different sidewall height on the front and back, and therefore look odd?

I appreciate the reasons for your suggestion, all the things I was looking for.

 

What? Why?

 

215/40 front 245/40 rear

 

Whoa...now thats a stretch! Well, then again ive seen 215 on a nine inch wheel...

 

Because when you have one tire that's wider than the other, but are both 40 series, The sidewall will be shorter on one than the other. Correct?

 

IDK...Never heard of that

 

Tire sizes aren't static, they're a ratio. A 40 series tire isn't say, 40mm. It directly relates to the width of the tire.

 

yes, but the difference would appear so slight that you really wouldn't notice. if it bothers you that much though, get 225/45/18 up front...

 

Wow, learn something everyday, thanks