Hello All,

I have been running 205/60-15's on my S70 since the factory 195's. They ride, handle, and support the vehicle weight far better than the original 195's. I would like to step up one more size to a 215. "Usually" two sizes up is not a problem, but I know the Volvo wheel wells fit a bit close.

I remember reading about 7 years ago, some of you were running 215/60-15's, but I cannot remember if you had any clearance/rubbing issues. I think I vaguely remember some minor rubbing at the extreme turning radius, but that was it. If any of you are still out there, please chime in and refresh my memory. I would appreciate it.

Thanks,
Rich
Apex, NC

PS. I did attempt searching for those older post on the website, but no luck. Is there an archive anywhere I may be overlooking?

Rich, thanks for posting about this topic. I've been wondering if I could replace the skinny looking 195's on my son's S70 with 205's.

I can't answer your question about 215's, but I know that the nominally 205/60R15 Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S is significantly wider than 205. That's what I mounted on my Saab 9000 to replace the same brand tire in the 195/65R15 size. The actual section width is 8-3/4" (222 mm). That's mounted on 15x7 wheels. The industry rule of thumb is that for every 1/2" change in rim width, the tire's actual section width will correspondingly change by approximately 2/10" (5 mm).

The car's appearance and handling improved more than I expected.

All tires are a compromise. These are expensive. They're not as sticky as a summer tire in the summer, and not as sure footed in the snow as a winter tire. But for our climate they get the job done.

Sam
Charlotte NC

Only for those using 'sport' suspension and 16" wheels. Normal suspension and 15" wheels should not be a problem. I use http://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html

to compare the different sizes.

Remember, the narrow tires work best in snow, and return better mpg.

Klaus
--
Proud owner of a 220S. If I had more room, I would have more Volvos.

Thanks Klaus,

Glad there is at least one person still around that remembers.

Use to live in Pennsylvania and Virginia, but am now in North Carolina. Snow is not much of an issue here, but thanks for the thoughts on traction and mileage.

Rich

Wait til it DOES snow there...people in North Carolina have absolutely NO IDEA how to drive in snow...

Even in MN, the first time it snows about 250 cars slide off the road or hit each other. It takes some people by surprise that the brakes and traction are different when the roads get packed with snow and ice.
After the 1st 'storm', things get back to normal. Funny to see all of the 4WD cars in the ditches :)

Klaus
--
Proud owner of a 220S. If I had more room, I would have more Volvos.