S80 2005 - 18" Tires?

JackZero · Post by **JackZero** » 26 Mar 2009, 18:04

Looking at tires for an S80 with 18" rims... I dislike the low profile look and was wondering if it's possible to put larger tires on it (without buying new rims.) It has 235/40ZR18, do replacement tires need to be /40, or can larger sizes be used?

I'm primarily interested in stopping distance, road noise and comfort. Any recommendations are appreciated.

robocam · Post by **robocam** » 13 Apr 2009, 23:15

You should call your Volvo dealer.

I recommend sticking with Volvo's tire size recommendations. If you put a larger tire on it, it might rub against things in your wheel well and damage stuff.

Post by **matthew1** » 14 Apr 2009, 12:02

I can't comment on the S80, but Volvo 850/S70/V70 are very intolerant of larger tire sizes.

http://www.tirerack.com/ might be of use in determining if you can move up in size.

Post by **vegasjetskier** » 15 Apr 2009, 21:36

My car has the "factory upgrade" (for it's year) 225/50R17 tires and even they rub on the fender wells sometimes.

If you go larger than the 40 aspect ratio on 18s, the tires will be larger in diameter and your speedometer and odometer will be off to the low side (you will be going faster and farther than your instruments indicate). If you go from 235/40R18 to 235/45R18 you will increase your tire diameter by 1.3" and reduce your revs per mile from 820 to 780 - a difference of 5%. So when you are going 75 mph indicated, you will actually be going 79 mph.

Your best bet might be to go with smaller wheels, 17s or 16s. I bet there are a lot of owners with 16s who would be willing to trade with you.