190e + 1 tires Luke? anyone? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

MS 190 2.6 · #1 06-01-2006, 12:13 PM

I just picked up a set of wheels for my 87 190 and need tire advice. I have searched this forum and several others but get conflicting answers. The wheels ar 16x7.5 et 41, I think they are off a 97 e320. As far as My research goes they should fit but tire size seems debatable. I am using the stock springs and have ordered bilstien comforts, but may go with thinner spring cups to lower the car a small amount. I find refernce to being able to use either 205/50/16 or 205/55/16. Some say the 55/16s are fine and others have found the rears to rub. I have been running yoko avs dbs on my last car and was very pleased for the money but they only come in the 205/55/16 size. My calculations show th 50's are smaller in diameter and the 55's are larger by about the same amount and I would prefer the slightly taller sidewall for comfort reasons. If I must use the 205/50/16 what would you suggest for a tire similar to the yokohamas? I want good wet and dry grip with a quiet and softer ride than some of the pure performance tires.
thanks

chuni959 · #2 06-20-2006, 04:02 AM

i strongly reccomend the BFG Traction T/A. It its a great tire (even in snow!) and has a high treadwear (440) It also comes is the rather hard to find size of 215 50 16, which is Spot on with stock tire height. 215 50 16s rubbed a little on my fender up front, but that was on a 16x8 ET34 wheel. Your wheels will suck into the wheel well 7mm more than mine and its on a skinnier rim, so it shouldn't rub at all. The rears did not rub at all. I would reccomend the 215s for you. 205 55 16 will rub if your car is lowered or has ***** in the back. It is way taller than stock. If you cant do the 215 50 16s, go for the 205 50 16

MS 190 2.6 · #3 06-24-2006, 01:16 PM

I ended up ordering a set of Pirelli PZero Neros in 205 50 16. Thanks for the response this post lay dormant for quite a while. Your point on the 215's with my offset is well taken, they are the correct diameter but I was afraid they would rub and these tires have gotten really good reviews at the tire rack.
I am using the stock springs and have new bilstein comfort shocks but am thinking I will order the thinest spring cups to lower the car a little so it doesn't look to much like my grand cherokee. I have three bumps in the rear and four in the fronts now, do you think the 1 bumps will work all around or should it be a little higher in the rear?

thanks

chuni959 · #4 06-24-2006, 01:21 PM

i would do 1 all around and let the suspension settle for a month and decide how you like it. If you want more lowering, do the H&R for a 1-1.5 inch drop, or Eibach for a 1.5-1.75 inch drop. You will want to get sport struts with those lowering springs, unless you have a lifetime warranty on the comforts ; )