I plan to order Corsa Speedline 16 x 7 wheels and non-runflat tires from Alex at the Tire Rack soon so they'll be waiting at home when my MCS arrives with its factory 16x6.5 wheels and 195/55-16 runflats. I'm doing this so I'll get a less punishing ride without giving up too much in handling. (I don't plan to do any racing or autocrossing - just putting on happy city and highway miles, 100% in snow-free climates )

The question is: Quality non-runflats don't seem to be available in that same 195/55-16 size . . . So does anyone know whether I'd run into any clearance problems ordering the slightly larger 205/55-16 tires on the new wheels ?-- Or should I go down to the lower aspect ratio 205/50-16 tires as some postings have suggested ?

Thanks Guys 'n Gals for any helpful comments, or experiences you may have had in making the same switch.

Joe

 

Consulting the Tyre FAQ over at MINI2, you'll see that the stock 195/55-16 has a diameter of 24.44 inches and is the largest of the stock fitments. 205/50-16 has a diameter of 24.07 (which is within the stock fitments range) and 205/55-16 has a diameter of around 24.9. I wouldn't want to go a half inch larger as it has a dramatic affect on perceived acceleration.

A quick check of TireRack showed some very nice summer tires available in the 205/50-16 size including the AVS ES100 and Kumho 712. The Bridgestone 750 is supposed to be a very nice tire as well. All would be acceptable.

Another option is to step down to 15's (since you're buying wheels anyway.) Then you could do a 195/60-15 (24.21) or a 205/55-15 (23.88) and keep that tall sidewall. If you're getting rid of the RFs because of harshness, you need to seriously think about 15's instead. Both sizes offer a nice selection of tires.

 

I agree with dances 205/50 opens up So many non RF tire possibilties!

205/55 is too tall for Mini!

Alex

 

I agree on the 205x50x16 tire size no clearance problems at all even when lowered an inch. Better price (lower) selection too. Currently using 205x50x16, AVS ES100's saving all season stock run flat's for winter.