2.2s and 2.3s? That's pretty bad. He should be able to be spinning the tires past the 60ft mark and still pull a 2.2-2.3

 

I don't know if my car is a good comparison but I've got 4:11's and run a 28", 10.5 Sportsman Pros. I don't have a problem w/ spinning as long as I heat them up a little. My 60' isn't anything spectacular though. (But i do have a big tire) If I go any smaller I don't have enough motor and would really be pushing the 1/4 mile.
60' - 1.959
1/8 - 8.72
1/4 - 13.66
mph - 98
If you drive it everyday, get used to seeing the gas pumps! Thats why I went a little bigger on the tire to help the highway.
You would definately need tires or you'll just spin.