If I get some 17's, will 205/40 tires wear out faster than 215/45? 205/40 looks so much better, but it almost looks like your riding on rims, and looks like the tires will wear out faster. Are they the same or will 205/40 tires actually wear out faster?
I don't think there is any difference in tread life. Unless you take into the account that the 205/40s have a smaller overall diameter than the 215/45s, and will have to............... eh, same tire wear. 
The difference will be in ride comfort and cornering performance. The 45 series tires will absorb the bumps better, but the 40 series will have more responsive turning. Also consider the roads in your area. 40s in an area with very bumpy roads will lead to dented rims if you don't drive carefully.
The difference will be in ride comfort and cornering performance. The 45 series tires will absorb the bumps better, but the 40 series will have more responsive turning. Also consider the roads in your area. 40s in an area with very bumpy roads will lead to dented rims if you don't drive carefully.
