Finding the correct wheel and tire fitment for your 1998 Mercedes-Benz C200 is crucial for optimal performance, safety, and aesthetics. This guide provides comprehensive information on wheel sizes, tire sizes, bolt patterns, offsets, and more for the 1998 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, specifically focusing on the C200 model. Whether you’re looking to replace your current wheels, upgrade to a different style, or ensure proper fitment after modifications, this guide will help you navigate the specifications for your 1998 Mercedes C200.
The 1998 Mercedes-Benz C-Class falls under the Br202 generation, produced from 1993 to 2000. This generation includes both Saloon (W202) and Estate (S202) body styles. Let’s delve into the details to ensure you choose the perfect wheels and tires for your 1998 Mercedes C200.
1998 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Br202 (1993-2000) – Body Styles
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class Br202 generation offered two distinct body styles, each potentially influencing wheel and tire considerations. Understanding these variations is the first step in finding the right fit for your 1998 Mercedes C200.
Estate, 5d (S202)
The Estate version of the 1998 Mercedes C200, also known as the S202, provides additional cargo space and a different rear profile. While generally sharing wheel fitment specifications with the Saloon, it’s always wise to double-check for specific load requirements, especially if you frequently carry heavy loads in your 1998 Mercedes C200 Estate.
Saloon (W202)
The Saloon, or W202, is the classic sedan body style of the 1998 Mercedes C200. This is the more common body style and serves as the primary reference point for wheel and tire fitment data for the 1998 Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
1998 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Br202 – C 200 Model Specifications
Focusing specifically on the 1998 Mercedes-Benz C200, we need to examine the available engine types to pinpoint the exact wheel and tire specifications. In 1998, the C200 was available in both Petrol and Diesel variants.
1998 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 200 (Petrol)
The petrol 1998 Mercedes-Benz C200 is equipped with a 2.0L inline-4 engine producing 134 horsepower. This model, often simply referred to as the 1998 Mercedes C200, is a popular choice and its wheel fitment is detailed below.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Br202 [1993 .. 2000] C 200 – 134 hp (Petrol)
- Generation: Br202 [1993 .. 2000]
- Production: [1993 .. 2000]
- Sales regions: Europe, Russia+
- Power: 134 hp | 100 kW | 136 PS
- Engine: 2.0 L, Petrol
Wheel and Tire Fitment Data:
| Tire | Rim | Offset Range mm | Backspacing mm (inches) | Tire Weight kg (lb) | Tire Pressure (front/rear) bar (psi) | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OE 185/65R15 88H | 6Jx15 ET31 | 29 – 33 | 120 (4.72) | 8.3 (18.3) | 2.0 (29) | OE | |
| OE 195/65R15 88H | 6.5Jx15 ET37 | 35 – 39 | 132 (5.20) | 8.9 (19.6) | 2.0 (29) | OE | |
| OE 205/60R15 88H | 7Jx15 ET37 | 35 – 39 | 139 (5.47) | 9.1 (20.1) | 2.0 (29) | OE | |
| 205/55R16 88H | 7Jx16 ET37 | 139 | 139 (5.47) | 9.1 (20.0) | 2.1 (30) | ||
| 205/50R17 88H | 7Jx17 ET37 | 139 | 139 (5.47) | 9.0 (19.9) | 2.3 (33) | ||
| 225/45R17 88V | 7.5Jx17 ET35 | 143 | 143 (5.63) | 9.7 (21.5) | 2.3 (33) |
1998 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 200 CDI (Diesel)
For those seeking diesel efficiency, the 1998 Mercedes-Benz C200 CDI offers a 2.1L inline-4 diesel engine with 101 horsepower. The wheel fitment for the diesel 1998 C200 variant is outlined below.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Br202 [1993 .. 2000] C 200 CDI – 101 hp (Diesel)
- Generation: Br202 [1993 .. 2000]
- Production: [1997 .. 2000]
- Sales regions: Europe, Russia+
- Power: 101 hp | 75 kW | 102 PS
- Engine: 2.1 L, Diesel
Wheel and Tire Fitment Data:
| Tire | Rim | Offset Range mm | Backspacing mm (inches) | Tire Weight kg (lb) | Tire Pressure (front/rear) bar (psi) | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OE 195/65R15 88T | 35 – 39 | 132 (5.20) | 8.9 (19.6) | 2.0 (29) | OE | ||
| OE 205/60R15 88H | 35 – 39 | 139 (5.47) | 9.1 (20.0) | 2.1 (30) | OE | ||
| OE 195/65R15 88T | 36 – 40 | 140 (5.51) | 9.8 (21.6) | 2.0 (29) | OE | ||
| 205/55R16 88H / 225/50R16 91H | 139-150 | 139-150 (5.47-5.91) | 9.1-9.8 (20.0-21.6) | 2.1-2.3 (30-33) | |||
| 225/45R17 88V | 143 | 143 (5.63) | 9.7 (21.5) | 2.3 (33) | |||
| 225/45R17 88V / 245/40R17 91V | 145-151 | 145-151 (5.71-5.94) | 9.7-10.3 (21.5-22.8) | 2.3-2.5 (33-36) |
Understanding Wheel Fitment Terms for Your 1998 Mercedes C200
- Bolt Pattern (PCD): While not explicitly listed in the tables, the 1998 Mercedes-Benz C-Class typically uses a 5×112 bolt pattern. This is crucial for ensuring new wheels will properly mount to your 1998 Mercedes C200.
- Center Bore / Hub Bore: The center bore is the diameter of the center hole in the wheel. It is designed to match the hub diameter of your 1998 Mercedes C200 for proper wheel centering.
- Offset: Offset is the distance from the wheel’s centerline to its mounting face. Positive offset, as indicated in the tables, means the mounting face is towards the outside of the wheel. Correct offset is vital to avoid suspension and brake component interference on your 1998 Mercedes C200.
- Rim Size: Expressed in inches, rim size includes both diameter and width (e.g., 7Jx16). The ‘J’ indicates the flange type. Choosing the correct rim size ensures proper tire fitment and performance for your 1998 C200.
- Tire Size: A tire size marking like 205/55R16 indicates: 205mm width, 55% aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width), R for radial construction, and 16-inch rim diameter. The speed and load ratings (e.g., 88H, 88V) are also important for safety and performance on your 1998 Mercedes C200.
Ensuring Correct Fitment for Your 1998 Mercedes-Benz C200
Using this guide, you can confidently select new wheels and tires for your 1998 Mercedes-Benz C200. Always double-check the specifications, particularly if you are considering aftermarket wheels or tires that deviate from the Original Equipment (OE) sizes. Consulting with a wheel and tire professional can also provide added assurance and expert advice for your 1998 Mercedes C200 wheel and tire needs.
By understanding the wheel fitment data specific to your 1998 Mercedes C200, you can enhance your vehicle’s appearance, handling, and safety. Drive confidently knowing your wheels and tires are perfectly matched to your classic Mercedes-Benz.
