I know that the alternative AP1 tires require a 245/45/16 to maintain similiar contact patch as the OEM-S02's.

In 225/50ZR16 the Dunlop SP Sport Maxx shows 8.1" tread width" vs 8.5 "tread width " for the S02. The fronts are similiar as well.

Is tread width same as contact patch?

This would be a very close match, I do not like my FUZION ZR1's and would like opinions on these tire size 225/50/16 running the Dunlops.

 

It is the same as contact patch. The Dunlop is a higher performance tire than the Fuzion.
If I can help with the tires let me knw.