Increasing Gas Mileage With Taller Tires? Options

[joyworks]

One of the few things that I dislike about my '99 Celica Convertible is that the gas mileage isn't as good as it could be. The 1997-2001 Camry, which had the same engine, got 3 mpg better on the highway with a 5-speed than my Celica does with a 5-speed, and the Camry weighed about 300 lbs more! I can only attribute this to the high revs of my Celica's 5th gear. So, my question is, can I achieve better fuel economy with a larger diameter wheel/tire combination? I know it would throw my speedometer off a bit, but to save fuel, it would be worth it to me. On that same note, what would would the tallest tire that I could put on a 16" rim and not suffer from any fender rubbing? What about a 17" rim? Thanks for your help!

[playr158]

2. No, taller tires (within reason) do not add significant weight nor "rotating mass". We're not talking Indy cars here guys. Take a couple of tires, one 205/55 and one 205/65 and weigh them. Less than the difference between a skinny driver and an average one.

:read: OP said larger wheel and tire combination...larger wheels = heavier and yes that will make a difference. its not just tires.