Tire options on older BMW model...

Apr 24, 2006 4 Replies
M

Auto repair rookie here. Need to replace a few tires on my 1989 BMW



325is. Current tire size is P205-50Z-R15 on high performance Fittipaldi rims (original BMW rims replaced by previous owner).

I just want to replace with basic tires (no need anymore for high performance tires given how old the car is) but not sure if I have any flexibility. I know the 15 refers to the rim size so, if I want to keep the same rim, this is not something that I cannot change. Does the 50 refers to the rim witdh (and therefore something else that I don't have the option of modifying)?



In brief, do I have to replace with exactly and exclusively the same P205-50Z-R15? These all seem to be pretty expensive! Which I had a more traditional rim size...



Andre



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S

Just be glad you don't have the BMW rims, which may well have been replaced because they were TRX sized. If you think the 15-inch ones are expensive, you should SEE the TRX stuff.

Consider the Michelin Hydro-Edge. I have them on my '86 535i and I believe they are available in the P205. Around a hundred bucks a pop.

--scott

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F

go to pep boys, tell them the situation, and your intent, see what happens. or try discount tires' - store.

mho v=83e

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N

a brief explanation of what you see on the sidewall of your tire:

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That said I don't know what the problem is that you're having; a

205/50R15 is a very common size for European sporty cars. Maybe you're just expecting to be able to do one of those "4 for $100" tire deals at Pep Boys? I don't mean to sound unsympathetic, but you bought a BMW; part of what makes a BMW a BMW is good handling, which in part comes from low profile, performance-type tires.

You also couldn't possibly have a more traditional rim size; I am guessing that they are likely either 15x6" or 15x7" which is common as dirt.

nate

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T

205/50ZR15 means:

205 = width in mm

50 = aspect ratio in % (sidewall height / width = aspect ratio, so 205/50 means a sidewall height of 102.5mm) Z = speed rating (Z is a very high speed rating, usually for the sportiest tires; most speed ratings are given after the size and load rating) R = radial 15 = wheel diameter in inches

Generally, tires with an aspect ratio of 50 are fairly sporty, though many are available that are less sporty and less expensive than typical Z rated tires.

You can check various tire retailer web sites (e.g. tirerack.com, tires.com, discounttire.com, etc.) to get an idea of what options there are.

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