BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) Tire Sizes & Rim Dimensions by Model Year and Trim

The BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) features varying tire sizes and rim dimensions depending on its model year and trim level. Early models commonly used a 195/65R15 tire on 6.5Jx15 rims, while later trims often upgraded to 205/55R16 tires paired with 7Jx16 rims.\n\nSportier trims and optional packages may include wider rims up to 7.5Jx16 or 8Jx16, often fitted with lower-profile tires like 225/45R16. These changes affect handling and aesthetics, so it's crucial to select tires and rims matching the specific trim and year.\n\nWhen comparing trims, always cross-check the tire width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter to ensure compatibility. This avoids issues such as incorrect speedometer readings or clearance problems. Refer to the original equipment specifications to maintain optimal performance and safety.

Year
Make / model / trim Year Tire size Wheel
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 318 i1999195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 320 i1999195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 323 i1999195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 328 i1999195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) M3 3.21999225/45R167" × 16"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 318 i1998195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 320 i1998195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 323 i1998195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 328 i1998195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) M3 3.21998225/45R167" × 16"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 318 i1997195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 320 i1997195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 323 i1997195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 328 i1997195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) M3 3.21997225/45R167" × 16"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 318 i1996195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 320 i1996195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 323 i1996195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 328 i1996195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) M3 3.21996225/45R167" × 16"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 318 i1995195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 320 i1995195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 323 i1995195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 325 i1995195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 328 i1995195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) M3 3.01995225/45R167" × 16"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) M3 3.21995225/45R167" × 16"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 318 i1994195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 320 i1994195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 325 i1994195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) M3 3.01994225/45R167" × 16"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 320 i1993195/65R157" × 15"
BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) 325 i1993195/65R157" × 15"

For bolt pattern (PCD), offset ET, center bore, and mounting details, open the bolt pattern page for BMW 3 Cabrio (E36).

FAQ

What are the common tire sizes for BMW 3 Cabrio (E36)?
Common tire sizes range from 195/65R15 on base models to 205/55R16 or 225/45R16 on higher trims and later model years.
How do rim widths vary across BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) trims?
Rim widths typically range from 6.5Jx15 on base trims up to 8Jx16 on sportier or upgraded versions.
Why is it important to match tire size to the specific BMW 3 Cabrio (E36) trim?
Proper matching ensures correct fitment, avoids clearance issues, maintains handling characteristics, and ensures accurate speedometer readings.
Tire size calculatorShow

Compare two tire sizes — diameter, speedometer error, and clearance change.

inchmm
Size 1Size 2DiffDiff(%)
Diameter25.0"25.4"0.5"1.89%
Width7.7"8.5"0.8"10.26%
Circumference78.4"79.9"1.5"1.86%
Profile height5.0"4.2"-0.7"-15.08%
Turnover per mile80779314-1.73%
Clearance--+0.2"-
25.0"
7.7"
old tire side
25.5"
8.5"
new tire side
old tire
15"
old rim
5.0"
new tire
17"
new rim
4.2"

Speedometer Error

(First wheel OEM size)

Reading20 mph30 mph40 mph50 mph60 mph70 mph80 mph90 mph
Actual20.430.540.750.961.171.281.491.6