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Passat Tire Question

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JPSmit

JPSmit

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Hi there, I have a 2003 Passat (4 cyl turbo) I need new tires. when I search on tires.com it seems to imply that I can put either 195/65-15's (the current size) or 195/60-15's. Is this true? There is a good deal on 60's. Is there any advantage or disadvantage? Thanks for your help.

JP who really wants his Midget restored!
 
60 will give a stiffer handling tire but a harder ride than a 65. Changing the profile of the tire from stock will also affect your speedometer calibration.
 
On a car as softly sprung as a Passat, I really doubt you'd notice the difference in sidewall height. There will be more variation in ride/handling stiffness from the construction of different tires than from the difference in aspect ratio.

If you want to compare sizes for fit and speedometer calibration, use this handy calculator:

https://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html

Generally, if your overall diameter is within 3% of stock, you won't notice a difference. It is probably more important to pay attention to the quality of the tire you're buying than adhering precisely to stock size. Close yes, but exact isn't necessary.
 
If you change the aspect ratio and the the tread width the outside diameter of the tire will change. Usually 195/65/15 = 205/60/15 or thereabouts.

Check out Tirerack, they describe the measurements.
 
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