what size tires do i need

[rtbishop0513]

I have a set of wheels and tires from a 5 series. wheels are 17 inch style 42 i put the wheels and tires on my e36 and they fit but what size tires do i need. the tires now look bulky. it looks nice but the back is rubbing the side if i hit a dip...thanks

[98M3_4]

First, make sure you are using hub rings in installing the wheels to take care of the hub bore gap.
What size are the tires now on the rears... 235/45-17 or 255/40-17. You may need to do a stretch look on the rears by running 215/40, and roll your rear fender lips. That Style 42 wheel offset is around +20mm, and you would run around +35 to +40mm on your rears normally given the same wheel widths

[rtbishop0513]

thanks the wheels were a gift but....i just went with contours

[98M3_4]

Good choice, IMO the contours will look better on your car

[Jim@tirerack]

First off the center bore would be wrong for the E 36 if the wheels came off an E39. Secondly the offset is way off and I would say you are going to have rubbing no matter what size tire you go with. The best size tire to run would be 225/45R17 and roll the fender lips and run more negative camber to limit possible rubbing.
If I can help let me know.