Tires for 5.5 x 15 Fuchs

[JV44HeinzBar]

Hi,
I've searched PP forums and haven't really come up w/ any suggestions on a good tire for 5.5x15 Fuchs. Additionally, while searching the net, I came across a chart that indicated that wheels w/ 5.5 width could use 205 tires. I don't believe I've ever seen any 5.5 wheel hold 205s only 195s.

Any advice is appreciated.

HB

[Arne2]

Honda put 205/60-15 on 5.5" wheels on some Accords in the early '90s. So yes, they fit. But no, they don't fit well, nor can you expect good performance from a tire pinched down on a rim that narrow.

This is from memory, I spent 25 years in tires (prior career).

[masraum]

I agree with Arne2, 205s will fit a 5.5" wheel, but they aren't ideal.

I'd probably go with a 195, or if it exists, maybe a 185.

I run a 205 50 15 on a 15x8 on my miata, and they are also commonly used on a 15x7.

[YTNUKLR]

Historic tires :
-Pirelli Cinturato CN36 185/70-15
-Michelin XWX 185/70-15
-Vredestein Sprint Classic 185/70-15
-Avon CR6ZZ 185/70-15 (more racy)

or go a bit smaller

165HR15 - Michelin XAS is original to a '67S, maybe 68S, ...

[Arne2]

The 165HR15 was original on '69 911T w/5.5" rims. Probably on '70 too.

[JV44HeinzBar]

Thanks gents. The old parts car I picked up has 5 5.5 x 15 Fuchs on it. The wheels are still wearing Pirelli P6s 195/65/15.

I did a quick search at TireRack.com and the applet suggested Goodyear Eagle GTs. The car that will use these wheels will never see snow or foul weather yet the link below suggests all weather tires. I'd like to find some good performance tires that are on the "sticky" side. It's getting hard to find high performance tires for 15 inchers.

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/SelectTireSize.jsp?autoMake=Porsche&autoModel=911&autoYear=1970&autoModClar=&brand=Pirelli

HB

[Arne2]

"Sticky" tires + 5.5" rims = much sidewall flex. Not a good package. If you want grip, I'd recommend wider wheels.

[Shaun @ Tru6]

I recommend Yokohama S drives in 195/55/15

Yokohama S.drive

Sidewall is in between a standard 205/55 and the rubber band look of the 205/50. With the 5.5s, you'll get a little more sidewall height than if you were using a 7x15s.

[JV44HeinzBar]

Thanks Shaun. I'll be sure to check those out.

HB

[racer]

I ran 205-50-15s on 5.5x15 wheels on my 914. 195/60s as well.. 185/70s too

In the 1970's running a 205-70 was possible and common.

Good link to vintage tires above.. Coker makes some lovely (and expensive) period correct tires that would fit.