1993 190e 2.3 tire size difference

[clkarn]

I just bought some stock rims for my 93 190e 2.3 . They came with Mich. Pilot exalto a s size 205/60 R15 91H. The stock size was 185/65R15 87H. So, the question is ,will they work and what effect could they have. In measuring the tire with a caliper I can not find that much difference if at all in width and none in circumference

[Don350SDL]

Well, if the original called for 185 and you have 205, that's two sizes larger, the absolute limit for changing size. They'll go on and run fine, but if it were my car I'd prefer to not go any larger than 195.

The 60 versus 65 is the profile - 60 or 65% of the width (205 mm) is the sidewall height. Doing the math, it's 120.25 mm versus 123 mm. Luckily they are both 15" tires. Last is the load rating, you are going up so no problem there.

If you have no other use for them, you might put them on. I, personally, would buy the right size.

[Tom Hanson]

On many different MB models, you'll experience premature tire wear when going to a larger size, particularly on the edges.

[clkarn]

Originally Posted by Tom Hanson

On many different MB models, you'll experience premature tire wear when going to a larger size, particularly on the edges.

Thanks for the input and adivse. I actually had a tire dealership put a size larger on this car(they said it was alright because they didn't have the 185 and put the 195 on) and I think I noticed right away that it was wearing a little quick on the edges. You can hear them in fact when going around corners and its not bearings you hear.

[W115nut]

185/65 is an odd size, and harder to find these days. Typically, 195/60 should work as well or better. 60 profile tires are generally higher performance, and more noisy, less treadlife etc.

I would rather have 195/60 and have the superior handling. 205/60 may be a little too wide, but it probably has higher load rating, a little more grip in dry (and a little less for wet and snow). The stock tire size for a 190E 2.3-16 is 205/55R15, essentially the same engine with a Cosworth 16V head.

When Mercedes specificed 185/65 R15, the dominant tires in the industry were the likes of 195/70 R14 etc. They were likely speced as 65 series for better ride than performance. It is fine if your 190E 2.3 is used for cruising on the interstate.

These days, most passenger cars have much better (larger rims, lower profile) tires. To give you an idea, Prius uses 185/65 R15, and some report much better handling with 205/60 R15.-)

http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-ii-p...res-prius.html



W115nut

Originally Posted by clkarn

Thanks for the input and adivse. I actually had a tire dealership put a size larger on this car(they said it was alright because they didn't have the 185 and put the 195 on) and I think I noticed right away that it was wearing a little quick on the edges. You can hear them in fact when going around corners and its not bearings you hear.