BMW 8 (E31) Tire Size and Rim Specification Guide by Year and Trim

The BMW 8 Series (E31) was produced from 1990 to 1999, featuring various trims and model year updates that influenced tire sizes and rim specifications. Early models typically came with 16-inch or 17-inch rims, with rim widths ranging from 7 to 8.5 inches, depending on the trim and performance package.\n\nTire size markings vary by year and trim; common sizes include 225/55ZR16, 245/45ZR17, and 265/40ZR17. Performance trims often required wider rims and tires to enhance grip and handling. Checking your vehicle’s manufacturing year and specific trim helps identify the correct tire and wheel combination.\n\nWhen comparing trims, pay close attention to rim width and diameter specifications, as fitting a rim too wide or narrow affects tire performance and safety. Consulting exact tire markings on your original tires or owner’s manual ensures compatibility. Upgrading tires or wheels may improve ride quality but must adhere to BMW’s recommended specifications.\n\nAlways verify tire sidewall codes to confirm size and speed ratings appropriate for your BMW 8 (E31). Proper tire and rim selection maintain optimal vehicle dynamics and preserve the integrity of this classic grand tourer.

Year
Make / model / trim Year Tire size Wheel
BMW 8 (E31) 840 Ci1999235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 850 Ci1999235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 840 Ci1998235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 850 Ci1998235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 840 Ci1997235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 850 Ci1997235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 840 Ci1996235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 840 i1996235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 850 Ci1996235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 850 CSi1996235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 840 i1995235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 850 Ci1995235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 850 CSi1995235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 840 i1994235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 850 Ci1994235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 850 CSi1994235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 850 i,Ci1994235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 840 i1993235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 850 CSi1993235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 850 i,Ci1993235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 850 i,Ci1992235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 850 i,Ci1991235/45R178" × 17"
BMW 8 (E31) 850 i,Ci1990235/45R178" × 17"

For bolt pattern (PCD), offset ET, center bore, and mounting details, open the bolt pattern page for BMW 8 (E31).

FAQ

What are the common tire sizes for the BMW 8 (E31)?
Typical tire sizes include 225/55ZR16, 245/45ZR17, and 265/40ZR17, varying by model year and trim.
How do rim widths differ between BMW 8 (E31) trims?
Rim widths generally range from 7 to 8.5 inches, with performance trims using wider rims for better handling.
Can I use tires from one trim level on another BMW 8 (E31) trim?
You can, provided the tire and rim sizes match exactly; otherwise, it may affect vehicle safety and performance.
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