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I have been tinkering with the idea of having more meaty tires, mostly because I love the look and also to see if it is possible. After doing some research, there aren't any posts about tires wider than factory specs on stock wheels. My car has the factory AMG package 19in. wheels with a staggered setup in 8.5in front and 9.5in rear widths. I decided to go a size up for both, which also increases the sidewall height a bit. Here are the tire specs:
Stock Tire Sizes:
255 / 40 / 19
275 / 40 / 19
New Tire Sizes:
265 / 40 / 19
285 / 40 / 19
Have had them for about 500 miles so far and everything is perfect. Zero rubbing, very good stability at all speeds (up to governed limit), insane grip in turns, and a more comfortable ride. The tires are Bridgestone Potenza Sport, an ultra high performance summer tire. Enjoy some pictures:
I have been tinkering with the idea of having more meaty tires, mostly because I love the look and also to see if it is possible. After doing some research, there aren't any posts about tires wider than factory specs on stock wheels. My car has the factory AMG package 19in. wheels with a staggered setup in 8.5in front and 9.5in rear widths. I decided to go a size up for both, which also increases the sidewall height a bit. Here are the tire specs:
Stock Tire Sizes:
255 / 40 / 19
275 / 40 / 19
New Tire Sizes:
265 / 40 / 19
285 / 40 / 19
Have had them for about 500 miles so far and everything is perfect. Zero rubbing, very good stability at all speeds (up to governed limit), insane grip in turns, and a more comfortable ride. The tires are Bridgestone Potenza Sport, an ultra high performance summer tire. Enjoy some pictures:
the car may ultimately have more grip on smooth roads - but I have never noticed grip to be an issue. It will now be less happy turn into corners and the paint will come off the rear wheel arches with wide rear tyres.
You may wish to find something to help. Mate with an S600 has no paint left using his stock tyres - its like road debris bead blasts the top of the wheel arch behind the tyre - some models had helicopter tape there....
the car may ultimately have more grip on smooth roads - but I have never noticed grip to be an issue. It will now be less happy turn into corners and the paint will come off the rear wheel arches with wide rear tyres.
You may wish to find something to help. Mate with an S600 has no paint left using his stock tyres - its like road debris bead blasts the top of the wheel arch behind the tyre - some models had helicopter tape there....
Even with almost bald all season tires, I still had more than enough grip for my use of this car. Corners are not an issue either, I rarely take them hard, and even then probably not even close to any limit.
The rock chips may pose a problem, especially with such a sticky compound. The helicopter tape is interesting, however I think some carefully cut and placed PPF may perform better. My purpose for this car is to put on a lot of miles, therefore I have come to accept that, over time, it will acquire more wear and tear than my other "garage queens".
Nice fit. That should ride a little bit nicer ( softer ) now too. Those are not run flats are they?
As others have indicated, use some PPF or 3M or other clear protectant tape along the arches and extending about 1-2 inches above the arch to help with road "sand" If you dont already have them, mudguards woudl also help there.
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