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MG MGB Technical - Tyre sizes - mixing and matching

I have a lowered '78 GT on stock rostyles that a previous owner has shod with 155s. My understanding of these things is that a GT of that year should be running on 165s.

Aside from the issue of which tyres are correct or best, my question is this: given that my fronts are in good condition, but that I need to replace the perished rears, can I mix and match by putting 165s on the rear and keeping 155s at the front until they need replacing?

Are there any safety implications?
Andy J

You probably need to check the regulations. Providing the tyres match on the axles, and are the same type (Radial) front and rear, size (at least in this case) is not important.
dominic clancy

The MOT will check that they are the same type and size on both sides of each axle, not front to back.

In the event of an accident, the insurance assessor will check the tyres against a list of recommended fitments and speed ratings. There might be a problem with 155s.
Martin Layton

Thanks for your comments. I think the key here for me is that there are no safety issues with having 155s at the front and 165s at the back. If anything, i guess it might be an advantageous balance. More rear end grip from the 165s but without losing the lighter steering at low speeds that the thinner fronts should give.

Cheers!
Andy J

Hi Andy

i have 185's on the back of mine, just means you have to drop down one on the profile, but made the back end just that bit more secure, especially in the wet!
Ed Braclik

It used to be very common to run 165 front, 175 rear. This was back in the 80's.
Steve Simmons

This thread was discussed between 01/04/2007 and 03/04/2007

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