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<Rims/Tires> Which Tire Size to Buy?

Hello all!

First, here's a little briefing on my situation...  I have recently
purchased a set of 17x8 Racing Dynamics RGR rims for my E36 325i (I believe
with a 33mm offset).  I am wondering which tire size to look for.  A local
BMW mechanic told me that the M3's use 235/40's, so since the chassis is the
same for my 325i, I shouldn't have a problem (e.g., rubbing) putting them
on.  After speaking to a few other people, including a salesperson at the
Tire Rack, I am currently leaning toward getting the 215/45's to avoid
rubbing.  They said that getting 225's or 235's can be risky.  I want to
"roll the lips" only as a last resort.

So here are my questions...

        1.      Which tire size is recommended for my rims?

        2.      Wouldn't 215's be a little too small in width to protect the
rims from scratches (e.g., when parking next to the curb), or is that
completely ludicrous?

Forgive me if any of my questions/comments seem amateur;  I am not an expert
in this field.

Thanks in advance!

////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
//  Eddie Ruvinsky
//  '92 325i
//  Visit my BMW & Other Resources homepage:
//  http://wwwcsif.cs.ucdavis.edu/~ruvinsky
////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////