CactusGreen

Just got hold of a set of the 10 spoke speedline alloys for a UK '93 80 TDi. Original fitment here in UK on the steel rims was 195/65 R15. The alloys (7Jx15)have no rubber on them yet and I'm unsure what size to put on and keep speedo callibrated correctly. Local tyre dealer suggested it would be 205/60 R15 and History records here on AW have the '93 90 as the same.

Does this sound right?

ex-quattro PETE

Yup, either 205/60/15 or 195/65/15 - either one will work on that rim.

CactusGreen

Any advantage of having one size over the other?

Remember this is an oil burner - so top performance less of an issue. In actual fact, my mom now drives this one - gave it to her in '97 with 78K on the clock and now it's done 86,500! The tyres on the steels have simply aged rather than wear out!

ex-quattro PETE

In terms of performance - not much. The 205s, since they're slightly wider, will offer slightly more grip and more stability at highway speeds. They will also offer little more rim lip protection if stuff like parallel parking and curb rash come into play.

On the other hand, 195s could offer slightly better gas mileage (narrower tire = less rolling resistance). Also, tires in this particular size are generally less expensive, if price is an issue.

Overall, I'd say the differences are minimal. If it was my car, I'd go for 205/60/15. Also, if you want some long-lasting, comfy tires that still offer pretty decent all-season performance, I'd look into Dunlop SP A2.

CactusGreen

Thanks!