Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Wheels & Tires Which is the better route to take?

These are the only options I'm looking at as I'm not going to get new rim's (17") anymore. Any help is certainly appreciated.

If you'd like to write more than just making a vote, that's certainly welcom

"Because this post has a poll in it, you may delete it but not edit it."

Anyways, for that matter, 225's will fit no problem, right?

I would advice 215/55/16's. And it depends, on your suspension in regards to the "will cause no problems" question.

As of right now the suspension remains stock SVT. I don't see myself altering the suspension, at least not any time soon.

I personally have not seen 225's on any Contour or Mystique, but some peeps here on this board claim no problem with them. It just seems to me they are a little too wide and the center of the tire may stick out a little enough to cause the center to wear down alot faster than the edges. And I dunno, but if I spend $100+ per tire on a set, then last thing I want is a tire that will only last me 15-20K miles!

Again, I would recommend 215/55/16. Best fit and ride comfort.

Pancho, quit with the recomendations on sizes that will throw everyone's speedometer and odo off. For some people, 215/55R16 would lose way too much steering response. Finding the right tire is a wiser decision than changing the size to compensate for a harsh ride.

225/50R16 is my recomendation. 205/55 and 225/50 have almost the exact same diameter. Most people that rub using 225/50 on E1 rims rub on the inner plastic fender lining, not the strut. 205/55 would do the same then. I have seen, ridden, driven in 225/50R16 Kumho 712 on a 2000 SVT. Under moderate cornering, the left rear tire would rub the fender. So, he just mananged to pull it back a little with some zip ties. 225/50 should provide batter handling and performance vs. 205/55.

Is rubbing common with 225's?

Rubbing with the 225/50s seems to vary car-to-car. I have 225/50/16s and have since lowered the car with the Roush springs, and I still have no rubbing. You best bet would be to see if a tire company will test fit the 225s for you. I went to America's Tire Company and they were more than happy to test fit a tire.

-Frank

Originally posted by APT CSVT:

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Pancho, quit with the recomendations on sizes that will throw everyone's speedometer and odo off. For some people, 215/55R16 would lose way too much steering response. Finding the right tire is a wiser decision than changing the size to compensate for a harsh ride.

225/50R16 is my recomendation. 205/55 and 225/50 have almost the exact same diameter. Most people that rub using 225/50 on E1 rims rub on the inner plastic fender lining, not the strut. 205/55 would do the same then. I have seen, ridden, driven in 225/50R16 Kumho 712 on a 2000 SVT. Under moderate cornering, the left rear tire would rub the fender. So, he just mananged to pull it back a little with some zip ties. 225/50 should provide batter handling and performance vs. 205/55.

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Take a 215/55/16 and put it next to a 225/50/16.

THEY ARE THE SAME HEIGHT. I HAVE PLENTY OF THOSE AT WORK AND I PLAY AROUND WITH SIZES ALL DAY LONG. If my recommendation of 215/55/16 over 225/50/16 has some thought put into, so don't slam me cuz I know my sizes. And, if you think that wider is always better, then YOU ARE THE ONE WHO NEEDS TO QUIT GIVING OUT ADVICE ON TIRE SIZES. ANd no, 225/50's won't proved better handling over 205/55's being that the vehicle is so light. Don't try to apply ideas that work for a Mustang or a Camaro because we are talking about a Contour.

And lastly, if the guy is asking for advice then LET ME GIVE SOME ADVICE. I have facts to back up what I say, and I see set's of tires installed and removed because of improper fit/application every single day, I WORK IN A TIRE SHOP, so please do not lecture me.

I respect everybody in this board and I really dislike when people who oviously know less than me try to talk down on me. So please don't do it.

Pancho, What do you think about Bridgestone S03 in a 215/55-16? I think the S03 on a 225/50-16 will rub in my 98 with E0 rims.

I have 205/55's on my car and they feel a hell of a lot better than the stock 205/60's... The ride is alittle more harsh, but it does handle better and gets better traction with the wider tire...

But for a reccomendation I would go with the 225/50's, wider is better for traction and handling, plus I think the wider tire would look great...

But either would be good... the 215/55 would be taller and throw off your speedo by about 2.5%, but one + is it would ride smoother, the - is it would effect your steering responce and overall handling...

Just my thoughts

You have lot of experience putting tires on cars in uncommon sizes, so maybe you should figure out how much difference it really is before you take that closest in stock tire and throw it on a customer's vehicle. Pull out your calculator.

215/50R16 = 1952.185675mm circumfrence
215/55R16 = 2019.729917mm circumfrence; 103.46% of original
205/55R15 = 1985.172398mm circumfrence; 101.69%
225/55R15 = 1983.601601mm circumfrence; 101.61%
In another thread I think it was a 215/50R17 recomendation which is 2031.982128mm in circumfrence and 104.09% of the original SVT tire size.

None of the tires suggested are too far off the OEM size, but the 215R55R16 is the most, and for the worse side for handling. And some have rubbing issues with 10mm larger diameter, 21 could cause even more issues.

Wider is (very marginally) better for lateral grip when cornering regardless of which wheels are powered. See: Reference #1 on slip angle and Reference #2. Although there are flaws in some of his comments, the fundemental is correct.

Another tire tech thread that is informative.

So much more is to be affected by picking the appropriate tire than the size, though. An S-03 in 215/55R16 will handle better and ride stiffer than a Kumho 712 in 225/50. I have some 205/60R14 tires that are 10x better than my other car's 215/45R17 in grip, handling, feel (steering response), and comfort. But credit that to some crappy OEM 17" tires and some very good 14" tires.

Aaron

Pancho1181 post:

Take a 215/55/16 and put it next to a 225/50/16.

THEY ARE THE SAME HEIGHT. I HAVE PLENTY OF THOSE AT WORK AND I PLAY AROUND WITH SIZES ALL DAY LONG. If my recommendation of 215/55/16 over 225/50/16 has some thought put into, so don't slam me cuz I know my sizes. And, if you think that wider is always better, then YOU ARE THE ONE WHO NEEDS TO QUIT GIVING OUT ADVICE ON TIRE SIZES. ANd no, 225/50's won't proved better handling over 205/55's being that the vehicle is so light. Don't try to apply ideas that work for a Mustang or a Camaro because we are talking about a Contour.

And lastly, if the guy is asking for advice then LET ME GIVE SOME ADVICE. I have facts to back up what I say, and I see set's of tires installed and removed because of improper fit/application every single day, I WORK IN A TIRE SHOP, so please do not lecture me.

I respect everybody in this board and I really dislike when people who oviously know less than me try to talk down on me. So please don't do it.
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so, you work for a tire shop ???? If you do, I would like to thank you for your input. Because, the lack of a factual base in your recommendations makes me look good

215/55-16 = 25.3"
205/55-16 = 24.9"
225/50-16 = 24.9"
215/50-16 = 24.5"

are they still the same diameter ????

Careful Luke...you might get bounced out of here like "he-who's-name-is-no-longer-spoken"

Not like we don't need expert help here or anything...

Originally posted by Luke@tirerack:

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Pancho1181 post:

Take a 215/55/16 and put it next to a 225/50/16.

THEY ARE THE SAME HEIGHT. I HAVE PLENTY OF THOSE AT WORK AND I PLAY AROUND WITH SIZES ALL DAY LONG. If my recommendation of 215/55/16 over 225/50/16 has some thought put into, so don't slam me cuz I know my sizes. And, if you think that wider is always better, then YOU ARE THE ONE WHO NEEDS TO QUIT GIVING OUT ADVICE ON TIRE SIZES. ANd no, 225/50's won't proved better handling over 205/55's being that the vehicle is so light. Don't try to apply ideas that work for a Mustang or a Camaro because we are talking about a Contour.

And lastly, if the guy is asking for advice then LET ME GIVE SOME ADVICE. I have facts to back up what I say, and I see set's of tires installed and removed because of improper fit/application every single day, I WORK IN A TIRE SHOP, so please do not lecture me.

I respect everybody in this board and I really dislike when people who oviously know less than me try to talk down on me. So please don't do it.
--------------------------------------------------------
so, you work for a tire shop ???? If you do, I would like to thank you for your input. Because, the lack of a factual base in your recommendations makes me look good

215/55-16 = 25.3"
205/55-16 = 24.9"
225/50-16 = 24.9"
215/50-16 = 24.5"

are they still the same diameter ????

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215/50/16 is .4 inch under OEM, 215/55/16 is over .4 inch from OEM... I wont even explain why i pointed this out.

Have you, Luke, ever mounted 215/55/16 on a stock SVT and had any complaints??? I seriously doubt that, because not only does it give better smoother ride, but it also helps a heck alot in handling.

Anyways, if you think "what you call" uncommon sizes are worse for vehicles then I wont go against you, that's your opinion and I don't know what you base it on. However, I have installed ALOT of this sets on Mystiques and Contours and I always find my customers happy and with even wear across their thread, so, that's what I'm basing MY OPINION on.

Stick with stock size for the 2000 SVT. All things considered, the stock size is safest for the speedo issues and overall fit.

OEM size for a 2000 SVT is 215/50R16. A 215/55R16 tire is 0.8" larger in diameter, not 0.4". A 215/55R16 compared to a 215/50R16 will provide a slight decrease in steering response and ultimate grip. Will it be noticeable? Yes to some, no to others.

I think I figured it out. You mean you have fitted 215/55R15 vs the OEM 205/60R15 tires than many Mystiques and Contours come with. Only SVT Contours come with 16" rims, which are largely less common. Based on that assumption:

205/60R15 = 24.7" diameter
215/55R15 = 24.3" diameter

There is the 0.4" difference that you probably installed on many Contiques. I would probably recommend a similar size for those running the 15" factory rims.

My 98 SVT came with 205/55/16's.

My next set was 215/50. They made my speedo read about 5 mph too high at 60-70 mph.

next set was 225/50. My speedo is back to normal and reads perfect. Only small rubbing issue on the back inner liners, but my car was built before they revised them.

You be the judge

I recommend the 225's

Originally posted by fst4dr:

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My 98 SVT came with 205/55/16's.

My next set was 215/50. They made my speedo read about 5 mph too high at 60-70 mph.

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According to the handy dandy tire size calculators available on the internet, that would indicate you speedo was already off. Going from 205's to 215's should make you only 1mph off.

As far as

In reply to:

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215/50/16 is .4 inch under OEM, 215/55/16 is over .4 inch from OEM... I wont even explain why i pointed this out.

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You're right, you probably won't explain this, because as APT said, 215/50/16 is OEM, so 215/50/16 is exactly .0 off.

Originally posted by pancho1181:

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Have you, Luke, ever mounted 215/55/16 on a stock SVT and had any complaints??? I seriously doubt that, because not only does it give better smoother ride, but it also helps a heck alot in handling.

Anyways, if you think "what you call" uncommon sizes are worse for vehicles then I wont go against you, that's your opinion and I don't know what you base it on. However, I have installed ALOT of this sets on Mystiques and Contours and I always find my customers happy and with even wear across their thread, so, that's what I'm basing MY OPINION on.

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I would just like to mention that the surface area of a tire that touches the road is the TREAD area not the THREAD area. Threads are used in sewing and internet terminology

and what's with the "name never to be mentioned again"

That was a little pointed inuendo about Terry Haines...

Get too...verbal, and you might get banned...

No! No! No! My post will not be turned into a discussion about TH (and I don't mean throttle hang). I want tires and people are helping me. I like it that way.

Originally posted by pancho1181:

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It just seems to me they are a little too wide and the center of the tire may stick out a little enough to cause the center to wear down alot faster than the edges.

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Actually, the opposite is true for me. The inner edge is wearing faster than the center. It is probably due to poor toe-in/toe-out which I have corrected and hope to get even wear now. The only reason the center should wear faster is if you are running too much air pressure.

I was angry over BFg dropping the 215's...
But I just put on a set of FOUR BFG KDW 225-50-16's from TIRERACK (of course)
The tires ride feels softer than the 215's.
The size differece is noticable from worn out 215's to new 225's.
I like 'em.
I would NOt get the 205's... I had too much wheelspin with the 215's and 205 would be just that much worse.
As The Great "Pontiac" once said "WIDER IS BETTER"

here are some tire specs to consider

205/55-16 S-03 Pole Position
Rim Width Range...... 5.50 to 7.50
Measure Rim Width.... 6.50
Section Width........ 8.4
Tread Width.......... 7.6
Overall Diameter..... 24.9

225/50-16 KDW
Rim Width Range...... 6.00 to 8.00
Measure Rim Width.... 7.00
Section Width........ 9.2
Tread Width.......... 7.2
Overall Diameter..... 24.9

So, if Pontiac is correct, I would rather have the
205/55-16 Potenza S-03 Pole Position tire

Hey Luke, what about the Dunlop SP sport 5000's?

Sport 5k 225/50-16
Measure Rim Width.... 7.00
Section Width........ 9.1
Tread Width.......... 8.4
Overall Diameter..... 24.9
205/55-16
Measure Rim Width.... 6.50
Section Width........ 8.5
Tread Width.......... 7.5
Overall Diameter..... 24.8

I think he was asking for an opinion on how the tire performs.

Check this out. Very good All Season tire, and I think I read that Luke said it was the only one (all-season) he'd put on one of his own cars instead of dedicated summer/winter.

Actually, Luke was right on with what I was asking for, but thanks for the info anyways, APT...

Never never would I use Bridgestone/Firestone!!! ever again.
Loyal FORD FAN/atic.
And lots of tires have different widths for the measured sizes...But then if you look at THAT, then how about the total tread area in the contact patch, (different tires have different amounts of "space" in the tread pattern... But also we all know you would have a hard time using a pure slick on the street (besides illegal)
This makes selecting tires really difficult.
All the tradeoffs make my head spin
So I stuck with the closest to what came on the car (again trusting FORD ??? yeah, remember those Firstone tires???)
Anyway I bought the @%##! BFG KDW's (giving Luke the credit at Tirerack) 225-50-16
(Sometimes I see a subcompact with skinny tiny tires and bust out laughing) Anyway my new tires will continue to slide me around freeway curves at 85/90mph like I am GLUED to the pavement. And as for those little curvy country roads, pure heaven Going at LEAST twice the posted speed, if not triple!!

I know nothing about small size differences and technical talk, but I do know that I put a set of 225/50/16 Firestone (hey, if anyone's watching their quality control right now, it's them) SZ50EPs on my completely stock '99 SVT and haven't experienced one bit of rub. Not going fast, not going slow, not hitting a big bump, not taking right-angle turns at vastly higher speeds than would be prudent, nada . I haven't had them long enough to judge even-ness of wear, though.

christopher

I got a set of toyo proxy's fz4's 205/55/16 a couple of months ago and am extreamly happy with them in overall performance. Big differance from the factory g-force's.

Nothin technical about them.

Regardless of what anybody here says, you get a 225/50/16 and a 215/55/16 and the 225 is taller. TALLER. I don't care if your TireRack catalog and "We Know Everything About Tires" book, take them, put them together, and the 225 is taller than my 215. Why did everybody make such a big fuzz about my recommendation???

And 215/55/16 is ALOT more popular than 215/50/16, ALOT.

Save the tech talk Luke, take the tires and put them side by side, and DON'T LIE.

Experience I learned from years of being involved around tires, you do not know the size, THE EXACT SIZE of a tire unless you look at it, stand next to it, feel it. I guarantee you, mount it on a vehicle and you will like them better than the 205's. I don't see why anybody would have any problems with a 215/55 that they wouldn't have with a 225/50.

Lemme put it in MY TERMS:

205/55/16 = nice
215/55/16 = nicer, bit taller, alot wider
225/50/16 = BIG, TALL and WIDE

One more time, don't tell me I am giving out wrong advice Luke, OKAY? Maybe TireRack doesn't carry many 215/55/16 but that doesn't make it a bad choice for anybody to put on their Contour/Mystique. Start selling your customer better sizes and maybe they will start getting a little better mileage out of their investment. I know it ain't good for business, but maybe some people like to pay and actually get their money's worth.

Originally posted by Luke@tirerack:

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Pancho1181 post:

Take a 215/55/16 and put it next to a 225/50/16.

THEY ARE THE SAME HEIGHT. I HAVE PLENTY OF THOSE AT WORK AND I PLAY AROUND WITH SIZES ALL DAY LONG. If my recommendation of 215/55/16 over 225/50/16 has some thought put into, so don't slam me cuz I know my sizes. And, if you think that wider is always better, then YOU ARE THE ONE WHO NEEDS TO QUIT GIVING OUT ADVICE ON TIRE SIZES. ANd no, 225/50's won't proved better handling over 205/55's being that the vehicle is so light. Don't try to apply ideas that work for a Mustang or a Camaro because we are talking about a Contour.

And lastly, if the guy is asking for advice then LET ME GIVE SOME ADVICE. I have facts to back up what I say, and I see set's of tires installed and removed because of improper fit/application every single day, I WORK IN A TIRE SHOP, so please do not lecture me.

I respect everybody in this board and I really dislike when people who oviously know less than me try to talk down on me. So please don't do it.
--------------------------------------------------------
so, you work for a tire shop ???? If you do, I would like to thank you for your input. Because, the lack of a factual base in your recommendations makes me look good

215/55-16 = 25.3"
205/55-16 = 24.9"
225/50-16 = 24.9"
215/50-16 = 24.5"

are they still the same diameter ????

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Factual meaning you actually took a ruler and measured them?

You being a tech Luke, should know that book knowledge doesn't mean you know what you are talking about. Hands on experience is the best tool you got when it comes to EXPERIENCE TALK. You never answered the question about you installing 215/55/16's on a Contour/Mystique before, have you ever? If not then you have no business making smart ass comments about a tire I KNOW will work.

Will a 215/55-16 fit on a Contour ... yes but, is it right ... NO. I have seen people do make a lot of things "fit" on different cars but that doesn't make it correct. There are people using 22's on IMpalas with tires that are 2" too tall. does it fit, you can make it fit. Is it a correct fitment .... again no. What about the people who's tires and wheels stick out 4"-6" past the fenders ... again they make it fit but is it correct ... NO . Not only is the diameter incorrect but, it will also decrease acceleration because of the change of overall gear ratio. But, please continue to make me look good by your incorrect recommendations. Also, if you notice in my sig I am an ASE Certified Master Technician and have been for almost 20 years so, I do know what I am talking about, and I am basing all of my comments and recommendations on experience and facts ... what about you ????

Thank You
Luke

Originally posted by pancho1181:

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Experience I learned from years of being involved around tires, you do not know the size, THE EXACT SIZE of a tire unless you look at it, stand next to it, feel it. I guarantee you, mount it on a vehicle and you will like them better than the 205's. I don't see why anybody would have any problems with a 215/55 that they wouldn't have with a 225/50.

Lemme put it in MY TERMS:

205/55/16 = nice
215/55/16 = nicer, bit taller, alot wider
225/50/16 = BIG, TALL and WIDE

---

Okay, here's my problem Pancho. I have zero experience with tires, but I do have experience with math. Hence, I don't believe you. You're saying that 225/50/16 is the only tire available that doesn't follow the measurement specifications listed on the sidewall. That's good to know.

Also, you say as shown above, that "I don't see why anybody would have any problems with a 215/55 that they wouldn't have with 225/50. So, basically, you're saying the same... I thought you said the 225 was taller. I thought you said the 225 was BIG, TALL and WIDE. I'm a bit confused.

Anyways, I'm pretty much decided on going with 225/50/16 Dunlop SP Sport 5000's. Now I have to decide whether I'm going with my local tire shop or combined TireRack/different tire shop. CEGers (and Luke), thanks for your help (with my original question).

225/50 is taller than 215/55, FACT.

215/55 won't work on a Contour/Mystique, FICTION.

And still nobody has answered the question "have you installed 215'55/16's on a Contour/Mystique?"

Math ain't nothing but a number, there's alot of math problems still unresolved, tell me Einstein, why is 225/50 taller than a 215/55???

Have I made you confused? I have said the same theory ever since the whole argument about tire fitment started, all I get from Luke and the others is "TEXT BOOK TALK", I don't like when people base their facts on what other people say about the tires they put on their vehicle.

Anybody out there, can you tell me 225/50 isn't taller than a 225/50???

Thank you.

Originally posted by CJ 2000:

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Originally posted by pancho1181:

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Experience I learned from years of being involved around tires, you do not know the size, THE EXACT SIZE of a tire unless you look at it, stand next to it, feel it. I guarantee you, mount it on a vehicle and you will like them better than the 205's. I don't see why anybody would have any problems with a 215/55 that they wouldn't have with a 225/50.

Lemme put it in MY TERMS:

205/55/16 = nice
215/55/16 = nicer, bit taller, alot wider
225/50/16 = BIG, TALL and WIDE

---

Okay, here's my problem Pancho. I have zero experience with tires, but I do have experience with math. Hence, I don't believe you. You're saying that 225/50/16 is the only tire available that doesn't follow the measurement specifications listed on the sidewall. That's good to know.

Also, you say as shown above, that "I don't see why anybody would have any problems with a 215/55 that they wouldn't have with 225/50. So, basically, you're saying the same... I thought you said the 225 was taller. I thought you said the 225 was BIG, TALL and WIDE. I'm a bit confused.

Anyways, I'm pretty much decided on going with 225/50/16 Dunlop SP Sport 5000's. Now I have to decide whether I'm going with my local tire shop or combined TireRack/different tire shop. CEGers (and Luke), thanks for your help (with my original question).

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Believe what you can man, but if you think TireRack is selling you 225's because "they are better fit and not because they are making more money off of them" then you are mistaken.

225 is taller, I don't know how nmany times I have to say this. I measured a Dunlop SP-5000, a 225 and a 215/55, and the 225 is taller, hence the comment "I don't see why anybody would have any problems with a 215/55 that they wouldn't have with 225/50" because the 225's are taller, hence why the tires rub.

I don't know any simpler English or I would post using it, 225 is TALLER, 215/55/16 is a good fit. I don't see Luke saying anything about "from experience" You can throw all the numbers you want Luke, you will still be wrong, and I can write your district mannager and make you see, thru court, I AM RIGHT. DO NOT MISSINFORM YOUR CUSTOMERS OR YOU WILL BE PUBLICLY EMBARRASED. Use all the sweet talk you want that has helped you suck money out of loyal Contour/Mystique owners, but you ain't telling the truth.

Do you know false advertising can get your company in very deep sh*t?

Stop the "I have 20 years of experience talk" and start telling me some real facts about the tire I am recommending agains the size 225 that you seem to like so much.

The tire may be taller when loaded depending on tire pressure and such, but according to what the numbers mean, the 215/55-16 SHOULD be a bit taller than the 225/50-16

However, even if the tire heights are as you describe, due to the weight of the vehicle pressing down the 55 profile tire a bit more, the circumference of a 215/55-16 will be about 1.5" greater than the 225/50-16, resulting in speedometer error as well as potentially slower acceleration. Not to mention, IF (and that's a big IF) the 215/55 is heavier than the 225/50. (Hey, it could happen) then you have more unsprung weight, which is usually not a good thing for handling and performance, not to mention, increased rotational mass.

I can tell you from driving, that wider is not always better. If you go too wide, especially relative to the wheel, then the tire will roll under the wheel and handling suffers.

All I have is 21 years of driving experience to share here. My certifications are all in the computer world, LOL.

TB

Originally posted by tboner:

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The tire may be taller when loaded depending on tire pressure and such, but according to what the numbers mean, the 215/55-16 SHOULD be a bit taller than the 225/50-16

However, even if the tire heights are as you describe, due to the weight of the vehicle pressing down the 55 profile tire a bit more, the circumference of a 215/55-16 will be about 1.5" greater than the 225/50-16, resulting in speedometer error as well as potentially slower acceleration. Not to mention, IF (and that's a big IF) the 215/55 is heavier than the 225/50. (Hey, it could happen) then you have more unsprung weight, which is usually not a good thing for handling and performance, not to mention, increased rotational mass.

I can tell you from driving, that wider is not always better. If you go too wide, especially relative to the wheel, then the tire will roll under the wheel and handling suffers.

All I have is 21 years of driving experience to share here. My certifications are all in the computer world, LOL.

TB

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No, the tire is taller, with or without weight, so rethink your entire post. BTW, tell me the math you are using for your conversion, and your mathematical "facts".

http://www.tiresafety.com/size_class/size_nav.htm#pmetric

Please read this page, all of it.

Then redo your math.

Then comeback.

I'll play along, since it's Saturday night and I'm staring at the pager so it doesn't go off.

215/55-16

Facts The Section width of the tire is 215mm, the wheel diameter is 16" and the aspect ratio is 55%. That means, the section height of the tire (or the measurement from the bead to the tread surface) is 55% of the section width.

Note to all following along, the section width is NOT the tread width, but rather the width of the tire at it's widest point. I don't believe this includes any raised lettering, but rather the widest sidewall to sidewall measurement.

So, using the FACT that one inch is 25.4mm we get the diameter of the wheel is the product of 16 and 25.4 or 406.4mm

Using the what we know about the section height listed above, the section height of a 215/55 tire is 225*0.55 = 118.25mm. We also know that you have to multiply this number by two, because each tire, properly inflated, has this section height above and below the wheel.

So the height of a 215/55-16 is the sum of 406.4mm + 118.25mm + 118.25mm or 642.9 mm or in inches, 25.31" in diameter.

Now for the 225/50, since we are mounting on the same wheel, the wheel is still 406.4mm

However, our tire has a section height of 225mm*0.50=
112.5mm.

You can already see that 112.5mm roughly 6mm shorter than 118.25. If you are really anal about this, the difference is 5.75mm

So our properly mounted and inflated 225/50-16 tire will have a diameter of 406.4+112.5+112.5= 631.4mm or 24.85"

Just under 1/2 shorter than the 215/55.

So now that I've done the math, why don't you show us pictures of the two tires in question (same make and model of tire, in the two sizes you list, with a fully visible yard stick or some other measuring device, so we can see you demonstrate your point.

It's only fair, right, I had to show my work, so you show yours, LOL.

TB

And if my work isn't good enough, let's see what Bridgestone/Firestone get when they do the same math.

http://www.bridgestonetire.com/dpp/sizespecs.asp?passproductid=227

215/55-16
Overall Tire Diameter = 25.3"
Static Load Radius = 11.6"

225/50-16
Overall Tire Diameter = 24.9"
Static Load Radius = 11.5"

Seems Bridgestone/Firestone agrees with me on this one.

Remember I got 25.31 (so they rounded to 25.3") for the 215/55 and I got 24.85 (and they rounded up to 24.9") for the 225/50.

So now you have to convince the world that both me and Bridgestone/Firestone don't know how to measure tires.

And I'm sure I can find another tire maker and look at his products as well, and find nearly the same numbers.

http://www.goodyeartires.com/catalog/products/EAGLERSASize.html

FWIW,

TB

Originally posted by pancho1181:

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Believe what you can man, but if you think TireRack is selling you 225's because "they are better fit and not because they are making more money off of them" then you are mistaken.

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TireRack isn't selling me tires. They never were. They just happen to be telling me the truth in this case(well, if Luke counts as TireRack). Well, now that you mention it, maybe I will buy from TireRack

Originally posted by pancho1181:

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225 is taller, I don't know how nmany times I have to say this. I measured a Dunlop SP-5000, a 225 and a 215/55, and the 225 is taller, hence the comment "I don't see why anybody would have any problems with a 215/55 that they wouldn't have with 225/50" because the 225's are taller, hence why the tires rub.

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So, once again, you're saying that the 225/50/16 tire is the only tire available that doesn't follow the measurement specifications listed on the sidewall.

And I checked the page you recommended and I read it completely. I did the measurements according to that page and it shows that the 215 should be taller than the 225. However, as you say, the 225 is the exception to the rule.

Originally posted by pancho1181:

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I don't know any simpler English or I would post using it, 225 is TALLER, 215/55/16 is a good fit. I don't see Luke saying anything about "from experience" You can throw all the numbers you want Luke, you will still be wrong, and I can write your district mannager and make you see, thru court, I AM RIGHT. DO NOT MISSINFORM YOUR CUSTOMERS OR YOU WILL BE PUBLICLY EMBARRASED. Use all the sweet talk you want that has helped you suck money out of loyal Contour/Mystique owners, but you ain't telling the truth.
Do you know false advertising can get your company in very deep sh*t?

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I don't think that would be false advertising as every single tire definition page says that a 215 should be taller.

Originally posted by pancho1181:

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Stop the "I have 20 years of experience talk" and start telling me some real facts about the tire I am recommending against the size 225 that you seem to like so much.

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You don't like Luke very much, do you? The 225 tire size came from me, not Luke. Read the very first post of this thread (I started it). It asks between 225's and 205's. I wouldn't consider a 215/55 as you're the only guy recommending it. And weren't your the guy that started the "experience talk".

You know what, you might be right. But don't attack Luke. Attack the tire industry for this dreadful conspiracy they must have going. I can see them now in their boardrooms.

"But sir, if we mislead the public on the 225/50 tire specifications versus it's actual measurements, we can then insert an experienced tireman...we'll call him "Pancho" and he can bring down TireRack once and for all. It's all too easy."

Oh yeah, Pancho, I found this gem earlier in the thread.

Originally posted by pancho1181:

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Take a 215/55/16 and put it next to a 225/50/16.

THEY ARE THE SAME HEIGHT.

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Now, wait a minute, I thought your whole argument was that the 225 was taller. Make up your mind!

Pancho,

You have not proved your "facts". A few people have proven 215/55R16 is supposed to be and by manufacturer measurements is taller. We have done this by math, by the definition of tire sizes. You are the only one that believes 225/50 is taller. Since you have access to the two tire sizes in the same model, please show us a picture to prove it as Tony suggested. BTW, 225/55 is taller than 215/55 and 225/50. Just in case anyone has confused you.

You just don't get it. It isn't because Luke, or Tirerack, or some book said something so we hold it as gospel. We relied on many sources that all point to the same thing. If for some reason all theouse sources are wrong, I'd like to be the first to know.

In reply to:

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I don't like when people base their facts on what other people say about the tires they put on their vehicle.

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But you are asking us to do the same with you? Why should we trust you? Just because you install tires every day on many cars? Like I told you in a PM, I have met many tire installers and salespeople that have not known very much in terms of what products they are actually putting on their vehicles. You are just another.

Did you even pay attention to what I said about only SVT Contours having 16" OEM rims? All others are 15" wheels with 205/60R15 tires. I wonder if you have ever installed tires on an SVT Contour. More likely that you use 215/55R15 on OEM 15" Contours & Mystiques. How many customers with aftermarket 16" rims come into your shop on a yearly basis and how many SVT Contours?

In reply to:

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I don't see Luke saying anything about "from experience" You can throw all the numbers you want Luke, you will still be wrong, and I can write your district mannager and make you see, thru court, I AM RIGHT. DO NOT MISSINFORM YOUR CUSTOMERS OR YOU WILL BE PUBLICLY EMBARRASED. Use all the sweet talk you want that has helped you suck money out of loyal Contour/Mystique owners, but you ain't telling the truth.

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Hmm, who is the one that is publicly embarrased? You are doing a fine job of it yourself.

BTW, if you'd like to keep sending my those lovely private messages, I can start making them public and some people might find them humorous. I do. Quit sending me messages with excessive use of profanity and threats of personal injury! I'm sure they would be enough to ban you if I really cared enough. But I don't. You have a lot of experience that I'm sure many people would benefit from. Just don't get so upset with people you don't even know over something as little as a marginal tires size difference.

Aaron

Hmmm, doing the conversion everybody is using I get this:

225/50/16 = 4.43"

215/55/16 = 4.65"

Hmmm, don't worry, pics are comming.

BTW, tires in question here are Dunlop SP-5000's and Dunlop SP-A2's.

Originally posted by pancho1181:

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Hmmm, doing the conversion everybody is using I get this:

225/50/16 = 4.43"

215/55/16 = 4.65"

Hmmm, don't worry, pics are comming.

BTW, tires in question here are Dunlop SP-5000's and Dunlop SP-A2's.

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Yup, very same numbers I get.

I do hope you are planning to compare the identical tires, IE two SP5K's and two SP-A2's. Plus, if you are relying on Dunlops website, I suspect you are victim of a webmaster who rounded every number to the nearest whole number. Either that, or they went to a lot of trouble to ensure every tire is exactly x" high with no tenths.

However, I don't doubt that with some tire makers, due to slight differences in production tolerances, that you could get a 215/55-16 that closer in size to a 225/50-16. But, I suspect that will be the exception rather than the rule.

And that is the point we are all making.

We've all be arguing about roughly 0.5".

FWIW

TB

Originally posted by pancho1181:

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Hmmm, doing the conversion everybody is using I get this:

225/50/16 = 4.43"

215/55/16 = 4.65"

Hmmm, don't worry, pics are comming.

BTW, tires in question here are Dunlop SP-5000's and Dunlop SP-A2's.

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Your math agrees with everybody except you ....
now that's funny

Originally posted by Luke@tirerack:

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Your math agrees with everybody except you ....
now that's funny

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yes it is funny

Originally posted by pancho1181:

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Hmmm, doing the conversion everybody is using I get this:

225/50/16 = 4.43"

215/55/16 = 4.65"

Hmmm, don't worry, pics are comming.

BTW, tires in question here are Dunlop SP-5000's and Dunlop SP-A2's.

---

[crickets on]
It is quiet in here, one hour photo place lose the pics?
[/crickets off]

we're waiting

It's actually kinda disappointing... All that arguing and we were right. I was really hoping the mysterious forces of the earth had somehow altered that specific tire size. Oh well...

the stock E1 wheels are 6.5" wide...correct?

well i'm going to a 16"x7" rim....so the 225/50/16 should be perfect right?