A trip up I-85 in yesterday's severe thunderstorm has convinced me that my OE Dunlop Run-Flats are pretty much at the end of their useful life (a little over 19k miles).

A 205/50 (on the standard X-lite wheel) is about 1.5% smaller diameter than the 195/55s that came on the car. Fuel mileage may suffer and the speedometer will read higher than actual speed (more so than it already does.) There are a lot of offerings in the 205/50 size.

A 215/50 is about .1% larger diameter. Fuel mileage should be the same or ever so slightly better than stock. The speedometer will read a little lower than actual speed, but since it already reads high to begin with, this may not be a problem. There aren't a lot of offerings in the 215/50 size.

I hate to admit it, but with premium fuel currently at $2.30/gallon where I live, fuel mileage could be an issue.

With that, I'd love to hear suggestions, real-life experiences, etc...

Thanks!

 

I had 215/50R16 BFG KDWs last time on my Xlites. Good tire, but not cheap and pretty heavy. The problem with the 215/50R16 size is selection and cost. I went with 205/50R16 Toyo Proxy T1s this time, cheaper and lighter. Edge Racing has them for just a hair over $100/tire + shipping.

Gas is pricey, but I am pretty sure that the diameter of my tires is the least of the factors in my gas consumption.

 

I'm afraid I'm guilty of that as well... Thanks for your input!

 

I've been very satisfied with my YOKO AVS ES 100 205/50/16's with respect to wet and dry traction. They cost less than the BFG KDW's, too. As hard as it is to do in a MINI, the best way to maximize gas mileage is to keep that right foot light. Drafting behind an 18 wheeler helps out a bit, too.

 

205/50/16's are what I use and think it's the perfect size for the MCS

in terms of aggressive street performance and comfort.