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Tyres size

Started by Galasz1, January 01, 2015, 02:15:33 PM

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January 01, 2015, 02:15:33 PM
Hello everyone. I need some new tyres and I would like your expert opinion if possible. Should I get 205/60/16" or 215/55/16" tyres. They have to be xl or reinforced. Any noticeable differences regarding fuel economy between the two sizes? Cheers for any replies.
January 01, 2015, 03:47:18 PM #1
Both are perfectly acceptable sizes for the Mk2 Galaxy.The second number 60 and 55 are a percentage of the of the first so the side-wall's of both are virtually identical meaning there should be no noticeable difference in ride quality.
So in reality it just comes down to the width of the tyre, 205 vs 215...



A wider tyre will, in theory, provide better grip but lower mpg. In reality with these tyres being just one CM wider I doubt there is anything to choose from. In short, go for the size with the best value.
03 Ford Galaxy 1.9 TDI 115 Ghia in Spruce Green Metallic
With cream leather interior, Full Bodykit, Remapped at 145bhp, Lowered on 18's
17 Volkswagen Touareg 3.0 V6 Diesel in Slate Blue
262Bhp AWD and Factory fresh...for now!
58 Ford Transit 2.2 TDI 115 in Frozen White
With retrofitted everything except another slidey door! :)
LAUNCH X431 Pad PRO - Scanning & Coding for all makes and models done in Wiltshire in exchange for winegums! :)
January 01, 2015, 07:00:20 PM #2
Thank you Mark for your informative post. The wider tyres are about Ã,£12 more per tyre. Is not a lot, but as you said they require more fuel! The wider tyres have a higher load rating though. Would I be ok with a 94 load rating or is it too low (insurance wise) ? Thanx again.
January 02, 2015, 07:59:00 PM #3
At the size differences between the two we really are talking fractionally more fuel (I very much doubt you would notice it at the pump).

A wider tyre has a bigger contact patch with the road and subsequently spreads the weight that little bit better - that's why it has a higher load rating. I believe 94 is the minimum load rating for the Galaxy (but I stand to be corrected on that) and of course you know you MUST have tyres which are "Extra Load" rated.
03 Ford Galaxy 1.9 TDI 115 Ghia in Spruce Green Metallic
With cream leather interior, Full Bodykit, Remapped at 145bhp, Lowered on 18's
17 Volkswagen Touareg 3.0 V6 Diesel in Slate Blue
262Bhp AWD and Factory fresh...for now!
58 Ford Transit 2.2 TDI 115 in Frozen White
With retrofitted everything except another slidey door! :)
LAUNCH X431 Pad PRO - Scanning & Coding for all makes and models done in Wiltshire in exchange for winegums! :)
January 02, 2015, 10:31:05 PM #4
Thanx again Mark! I was thinking of getting the 205's with 96 xl rating. But I'll see what deals I can get.
January 03, 2015, 12:05:18 PM #5
I've always used 215/55R16 97W Reinforced - that's what were on the car when new and have always replaced like for like

Michelin tyres whilst expensive do definitely last the longest and might even work out cheaper in the long run than cheaper tyres.

As my family car I would never skimp on tyres.

Car is a 2005 TDI 115 base model.
January 03, 2015, 05:03:18 PM #6
I totally agree about the quality, as with brakes I always fit the best I can. I'll go for the 215's cos as Mark said more contact with the road! Thanx again guys!
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