I got this off MINI2 site...........

 

strange, my 215/45 should be rubbing then! but it had only VERY minor rub once in a blue moon...

what's the offset on the wheel... a 40 offset on all of them could explain the reason of some of these

 

Would 215/45's fit on the stock S Lites without rubbing?

 

Yes, usually.

Alex

 

With what range of offset Alex?

 

That diagram might show the clearance at full compression under load.
I know that with stock tires and suspension the 205/45-17 tires are not very close to rubbing no matter what under normal use.

Normally when using stock suspension you can choose wheels of various diameter from 15" to 18" with offsets in the range of about +37mm to +50mm. Some tires have a more square shoulder and contribute to the risk of rubbing more than those with rounded shoulders.

Once you drop your MINI using coil overs or lowering springs then the range of offset decreases to about +42mm to +50mm.

Having more negative camber does allow a little more clearance against rubbing. Some MINIs drive fine with one or two people in the car and do rub under a full load or over dips.

 

with 7's a 45 or higher (s lites)
or
7.5 a 42 or higher

Alex