205's over 195's


EK9andy

Active Member
Joined
Mar 14, 2014
Messages
313
Does anyone run 205's on their car? If so is there a noticeable difference in grip?
Also are you running a lower 50 profile over the OEM 55?
 
Not really noticeable on the road, 205 better for track, especially wet days. A 50 profile will give you more feel, 55 for more pot hole comfort. Much depends on your suspension set up, how you drive & what you really need to pay for a tyre.
 
205 55 15 will look massive (sidewall)

A 205 50 15 sidewall will look similar size to a 195 55 15
 
  • Like
Reactions: rvm
Yeh realistically the switch from 195/50 to 205/50 won't really be noticeable. I did once swap from 195/45/16 to 215/40/16. The side walls looked the same but there was at least a noticeable difference in width and grip (using the same tyres as before)

You've got to remember, some brands 195 is the same as 205 of others and vice-verse. Going for the best possible tyre brand and model is the most important thing in my opinion.
 
Since the car is not a racing car I think you'll not feel any noticeable difference, however, more rubber on the road = more grip ;)
 
You need at least a 7j rim for 205's or you will get excess 'flex' or 'sway' between rim and tyre from experience with 888's on track at least anyway.
 
Going off all the info I think id go with the 205/50 on the road or track, or put 205 on the back and 195/50 on the front to stop oversteer. my dc2 and last ek9 liked stepping out sometimes and wider tyres on the back cured it
 
Back
Top