Will 2005 S Hardtop OE wheels fit a 2008 hardtop? The tire size on the 2005 are 195/50r16 and on the 2008 they are 175/65r15. I understand the 2008 has an optional size 16" radius.

 

Yes. All MINIs to date have the same bolt pattern with the exception of the Countryman (R60). The bolt size did change however from a M12 to a M14 but the hole on the OEM wheel should still be big enough to allow fitment on any year car ('02+).

The different in wheel size isn't really important so long as you are not trying to put a 15" wheel on a S model as the brakes are too big for the wheel to fit. With regards to size, the overall diameter is what is more critical when changing wheels and tires. The different between those two you listed is about 1.17% this is negligible because every tire manufacture is slightly different and the size will change that much or more through the wearing of the tread. To me, 3% is enough difference to where you might begin to notice the speedo being slightly different.

 

yetti96,

Thanks for the quick reply. Very informative. I knew the bolt pattern would fit but I wasn't sure about the rest. I thought I might have a problem turning and rubbing. Really appreciate your help.

 

First gen have 12 mm bolt holes, second gen have 14 mm holes . First gen wheels won't fit 2 gen with out mods

 

The stud sizes have changed, that is true. But the bolt holes in the wheels are all the same size. also the taper the coned part of the bolt head fits into is the same. I am running wheels from a 2002 1st gen on my 2010 R56 (2nd gen) with no changes at all. I even can use my stock 14 mm wheel bolts.

 

Forgot to mention that the 1st gen wheels I'm using are my winter wheels. Not the bridgespokes listed in my signature.

 

It will fit fine. All MINI OEM wheels (all years, both generations) have large lug holes that can fit 14mm diameter lugs.

 

They will fit great with no problems.