I own a 1966 Jaguar XKE 2+2 Series 1, 4.2L and I need to replace the Michelin tires that are on the car. The tire size presently on the car is 185 x 15. My question is will a 205/70 R15 fit on my Series 1. I was told that a 205mm tire will fit rim width from 5-7". I want to make sure this new Michelin Defender size will fit on the original series 1 rims.

Thanks for the help.

 

Technically permissible, perhaps, but a 5" rim is a bit narrow for a 205/70 tire.

Nothing horrible will happen but the sidewalls will be pinched-in quite a bit. You probably won't get the best out of the tire that way.....espcially if you like crisp steering and zipping around twisty roads.

And it might look a little weird as well.....

Cheers
DD

 

My S2 2+2 had 205's on it when purchased, the low speed handling was terrible, I changed to original size Cinturato's and have been very pleased with the improvement.

Ian

 

What tires are available in the 185 x 15 with tube? Can a tubeless tire be used on the wire wheels? I really don't drive the car that much, so I don't want to spend a fortune for a tire that is only driven a 1000 miles per year. What have other E-Type owners put on their cars?

Thanks for the advice.

 

Hi there,

As a long time and big mileage user of 205/70x15 on our S1 FHC, we loved them for outright brilliant performance but must agree with both Doug and Ian and recommend you do not fit them on standard rims. No contradiction here ... we had all our wheels re-manufactured with all new 316SS spokes and wider 6" rims.

Anyone who has seen vid of steel spoked cww flexing under cornering loads, or worse, the damage of one letting go will understand the value of the SS spokes ... and the special coating is not too distantly remote from chrome. I defy any but concourse judges to pick up on the extra rim width, although the tyres are noticeable broader on full lock.

The remaining issue you may not have considered (we didn't think of it) is the increased tyre girth to fit in the spare wheel well. Our wheel well cover sat up about 1/2" proud of the surrounding floor ... solved by retaining the standard rim (but re-spoked) only on this spare with a 195/70 tyre.

Edit PS ... Anyone doubting my comments re chromed steel spokes should consider why they were generally banned from racing.
Hope this helps,
Ken