Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) Tire Sizes and Rim Specifications by Year and Trim
The Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) features a variety of tire size markings and rim dimensions that vary by model year and trim. Early models typically come with 185/60 R14 tires on 5.5J×14 rims, while later trims may be equipped with wider 195/55 R15 tires on 6J×15 rims.\n\nTrim comparisons reveal that sportier or special editions often include wider rims and lower profile tires for enhanced handling and aesthetics. When comparing trims, ensure rim widths match tire specifications to maintain proper fit and performance.\n\nFor practical wheel and tire replacement, always check your specific model year and trim’s original equipment specifications. This helps avoid compatibility issues and maintains vehicle safety and driving comfort.
| Make / model / trim | Year | Tire size | Wheel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 1.6 | 1998 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 1.8 | 1998 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 1.9 TDI | 1998 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 2.0 | 1998 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 1.6 | 1997 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 1.8 | 1997 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 1.9 TDI | 1997 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 2.0 | 1997 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 1.6 | 1996 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 1.8 | 1996 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 1.9 TDI | 1996 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 2.0 | 1996 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 1.6 | 1995 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 1.8 | 1995 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 1.9 TDI | 1995 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 2.0 | 1995 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 1.6 | 1994 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 1.8 | 1994 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 2.0 | 1994 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 1.8 | 1993 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
| Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7) 2.0 | 1993 | 185/55R15 | 6" × 15" |
For bolt pattern (PCD), offset ET, center bore, and mounting details, open the bolt pattern page for Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7).
FAQ
- What tire sizes come standard on the Volkswagen Golf III Cabriolet (1E7)?
- Standard tire sizes vary, but common defaults include 185/60 R14 on early trims and 195/55 R15 on later or sportier trims.
- How do I compare rim widths across different Golf III Cabriolet trims?
- Compare based on rim width and diameter; early trims usually have 5.5J×14 rims, while some later trims come with 6J×15 rims for improved handling.
- Can I use tires with a different aspect ratio than originally fitted?
- Changing the tire’s aspect ratio affects handling and speedometer accuracy; it’s best to match or closely align with the original size markings.
Tire size calculatorShow
Compare two tire sizes — diameter, speedometer error, and clearance change.
| Size 1 | Size 2 | Diff | Diff(%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter | 25.0" | 25.4" | 0.5" | 1.89% |
| Width | 7.7" | 8.5" | 0.8" | 10.26% |
| Circumference | 78.4" | 79.9" | 1.5" | 1.86% |
| Profile height | 5.0" | 4.2" | -0.7" | -15.08% |
| Turnover per mile | 807 | 793 | 14 | -1.73% |
| Clearance | - | - | +0.2" | - |






Speedometer Error
(First wheel OEM size)
| Reading | 20 mph | 30 mph | 40 mph | 50 mph | 60 mph | 70 mph | 80 mph | 90 mph |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Actual | 20.4 | 30.5 | 40.7 | 50.9 | 61.1 | 71.2 | 81.4 | 91.6 |
