lower profile is a compromise in performance in varying conditions.

On smooth wet or dry pavement a lower profile tire will handle better. ON large or medium bumps, the lower unsprung weight can provide better handling acceleration and braking. That unfortunately is where the advantage ends.

For accelerating and braking in most conditons and rough pavement with smaller bumps, a 16" rim with a higher profile will give better traction for acceleration and braking. Also on rippled pavement, gravel and snow, the 16" will be better.

An I'll be honest here. I alos associate a lower car with big rims and tinted windows on any car with either 1) wreckless youth, 2) drug dealer 3) gang banger (usually with chrome...or bling, bling) 4) a combination of the first 3.

Guess I'm just either 1) getting old, 2) grew up 3) too judgemental 4) combination of all 3.