Tire fitment for 97 E36 328i

[JL380]

I Have a 97 328i sport Pkg with stock 225/50/16 I need any info on what size wheels and tire I can fit with little or no problem? I would like to fit 18" but I think 18" I've called many places and i've got many different answers. For example: Tire Rack told me that Going with front: 235/35/18" and rear: 245/35/18 with 8.5 all or 8.5 / 9.5 rear would work??? Discount tire told me front: 225/40/18 and rear: 245/35/18 would work same 8.5/9.5???????? I also called a few other wheel shops and got about the same tire sizes. what are you guys running with? your info would be most useful. What do you recommend? I would like to go as wide as possible in rear with tires without rolling any fenders.

[Gary@Tirerack]

I Have a 97 328i sport Pkg with stock 225/50/16 I need any info on what size wheels and tire I can fit with little or no problem? I would like to fit 18" but I think 18" I've called many places and i've got many different answers. For example: Tire Rack told me that Going with front: 235/35/18" and rear: 245/35/18 with 8.5 all or 8.5 / 9.5 rear would work??? Discount tire told me front: 225/40/18 and rear: 245/35/18 would work same 8.5/9.5???????? I also called a few other wheel shops and got about the same tire sizes. what are you guys running with? your info would be most useful. What do you recommend? I would like to go as wide as possible in rear with tires without rolling any fenders.

235/35R18 is basically a dead tire size, only the older Pzero Assymetricos are still make in that size, so I would not go that route. If you're 100% against rolling the rear fenders, stick with 225/40R18, as we've had some reports of fender contact with 245/35R18.

I'd suggest you reconsider the fender rolling issue, as when done properly it is an effective modification that gives you that extra bit of clearance you'll want to accomidate the wider tire sizing.