245/40 ZR 19 tyres on the 159 ti

[Tallwoods]

G'day all.  I've owned a 159 ti 2.2 JTS for abour 18 months now and have enjoyed every minute of it.  I've covered about 34,000ks and the time has come to put some new tyres on the front.  The car came new with 235/40 ZR 19 Contis.  I knew these things would be pricey when the time came, but at $680ea I have to look at some options.  Pirelli PZero are a bit cheaper at about $550ea.  However, I have to ask if anyone out there in Alfa land has experience with fitting 245/40 ZR 19 on the ti.  This size is more readily available from a number of manufacturers and a lot less expensive, but may have issues with clearance.  Let me know what you think?

[101phil]

I had 19"s (245/35 19) on my XR6 and I never had a problem with Falkens, can't remember the model number off memory.

They handled well in the wet and dry and I was impressed with them. They retailed about $330. . I know different cars but still I hope that helps a bit.

[alfagtv100 (Biggus)]

My Ti came fitted with 19" Pirelli PZero rubber.  Great tyre but definitely pricey.  Feedback I have received (from an Alfa dealer) is that the Continental tyres are quieter and more durable.
Depending on how you actually use the car (just day-to-day driving or lots of fanging about), a cheaper option may make sense.  $330 seems much more reasonable than $550-$680.  Are the Euro tyres that much better/safer?
I would consult someone like Stuckey Tyre Service for some qualified advise.

Cheers,
Marco.