Hi

I am a complete n00b to the site but I do understand the value of researching but haven't quite find a definitive answer in the forums (similar information but not quite the same) or anywhere else. I just bought my girlfriend a used 2005 Mini Cooper (base maybe? no manual included lol) which of course, I don't know a whole lot about specific rim sizes. Currently the car has 195/55/16 but I was wondering if 205/55/16 will work or what other combinations might fit without rubbing. All I can tell is that everything looks stock.

The reason I would like about other options really is just because there might be better prices on different configurations.

Thank you and sorry for my lack of experience in this topic (I even saw the calculator but I was like )

 

To fill the wheel wells on my 06 MCS I used Hankook 220/45/17 (cadillac spec tires) with 20mm spacers to round out the look. I had to do some MINOR trimming on the arches but the end result was well worth it. On my 13 JCW I am using 235/40/17 Sumotuomo (great tire) on 7.5 Rotas,12.5 spacers in front only and car is lowered 2". Absolutely no trimming or problems.
A wheel/tire combo will not only make your ride look good but it will change the way YOU feel about having done it.

ISAMIN

 

205/50/16 is very close to stock and works well.
205/55/16 is a little taller but fits, and the selection in that size is better.
Stock 16 inch rims are 16x6.5.

For 17 inch wheels, 205/45/17 is stock and 215/45/17 also works.
Stock 17 inch rims are 17x7.

 

You can certainly consider 205/55-16 on stock 16" rims and tire selection variety is good.

However you can also still choose 195/55-16 which besides runflats (good for those who need safety at night or on busy roads with no safe shoulder) does have a few non runflat All Season tire options that will work for a base Cooper.

Ultra High Performance All Season non runflats-
BFG g-Force Comp 2 A/S 400 treadwear
205/50-16 $89.25 each, 87W load/speed rated, 22 lbs
205/55-16 $95.85 each, 91W load/speed rated, 22 lbs
tirerack test results-
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tests/...y.jsp?ttid=200

Kumho ecsta 4X II (new) all sizes fit stock 16" wheels,
420 treadwear, $60 rebate right now.

195/55-16 $59.25 each, 87V load/speed rated, 19 lbs
205/50-16 $79.30 each, 87W load/speed rated, 20 lbs
205/55-16 $71.25 each, 91W load/speed rated, 20 lbs
tirerack test results-
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tests/...y.jsp?ttid=204
Of these sizes the 205/55-16 has the tallest sidewall and offers the more comfortable ride. I think any of the tire sizes for this tire will be roughly the same.