Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Wheels & Tires What are optional tire sizes for 1999 SVT?

I need to replace my BFG g-force tires and I cannot find them anywhere. I've contacted BFG and they said the 215-50-16 size is on an indefinite backorder.

My choices are limited with the OE size so are there optional sizes that will safely fit my 1999 SVT? Any recommendations?

Thanks for any help.

Shan Foley
Germantown, MD
1999 Silver Frost Contour SVT

I would go for the Sumitomo HTRZ II in a 205/50WR16. Great handling and a much quieter ride than the GFG. I know they are a little narrower than stock but they are a sure fit. Take a look Tire Rack .

205/55R16 is also a factory size for SVTs, and is much more common than 215/50. Not sure if any SVTs came from the factory with 205/55 on the newer wheels, but it won't be a problem as I believe the wheels are the exact same size. You could go with 225/50, but that risks rubbing.

Originally posted by SVTCANUK:

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I would go for the Sumitomo HTRZ II in a 205/50WR16. Great handling and a much quieter ride than the GFG. I know they are a little narrower than stock but they are a sure fit. Take a look Tire Rack .

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That size isn't narrower (well, it might be as different tires widths are measured slightly differently, so 205 isn't always 205). That tire is, however, shorter - sidewall isn't as tall.

Originally posted by PA 3L SVT:

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205/55R16 is also a factory size for SVTs......Not sure if any SVTs came from the factory with 205/55 on the newer wheels.

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Yep! My 98.5 came with 205/55's on the newer wheels.

I'm looking at replacing the stock BFG KDW's with either Kumho Ecsta 215/55VR16 or Falken FK-451 205/50ZR16. Both will fit quite well.

Thanks everyone. This will give me something to start with. I definitely don't want anything narrower, so if I choose 205's, I'll be sure to take a peek at them first.

I've had 225-50-16 KDW on my 99 SVT (stock wheels) for about three months now, with no rubbing whatsoever, even with three grown men and three sets of golf clubs in the car.

The larger diameter of the 225s will make the speedo read about two-and-a-half or three per cent slow.

225/45R16 would be my choice. I had 225/50's and they were obviously taller to the eye, the 45 series tires bring them closer to stock rolling diameter, with the benefit of a wider tire.

Kuhmo Ecsta are availabe in this size, but they suck a bag of dicks

But I would go the Yokohama A-520. They grip like mad! $100each

I have had Kumhos on my XR4Ti now for about a year with no complaints - they are sticky and have awesome traction in the rain. Seem to rate better than the A520s on tire rack as well.