215/60/16 vs 215/55/17 winter performance

[SuperGoop]

215/60/16 vs 215/55/17 has almost the same diameter and width. The only difference is the rim size (16" vs 17"). I know this may affect the size/shape of the contact patch and the stiffness of the sidewalls, but are there any differences in winter performance (all things being equal, same model tires).

The 17" will probably have better handling due to lower sidewalls and a rougher ride; is there anything else? I am more interested in snow/ice performance differences. Thanks.

[kyle@tirerack]

Hard to say just how much better the 16" would be....... but usually the higher profile would out perform the lower profile tires that have less sidewall flex. Send me a message if I can help.