Thread: Prius 75-91mpg
View Single Post
Old 04-21-2019, 08:43 PM   #22 (permalink)
Ecky
Master EcoModder
 
Ecky's Avatar
 
Join Date: Dec 2011
Location: New Zealand
Posts: 5,016

ND Miata - '15 Mazda MX-5 Special Package
90 day: 40.51 mpg (US)
Thanks: 2,870
Thanked 2,515 Times in 1,555 Posts
You might be surprised to learn, but I did some math yesterday and it turns out the inertia of a wheel actually goes down as the aspect ratio (and thus overall diameter) goes up, because it spins more slowly. So, in effect, a 165/80r14 tire is "lighter", inertially speaking, than a 165/40r14.

Going more narrow is always a win, but don't compromise safety.

There's also gearing to consider. I know a Prius has "infinite" ratios, but going up or down in size may have unintended consequences.
  Reply With Quote