1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK SLK230
The 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK SLK230 tire size and wheel specifications below reflect standard OEM reference fitment data for this trim level.
Detailed tire and wheel breakdown for the 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK
Tire geometry â 205/55R16
The 205/55R16 fitted to the 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK has a section width of 205mm and an aspect ratio of 55%, mounted on a 16-inch rim. That gives a sidewall height of 112.8mm (4.44") and an overall outside diameter of 631.9mm (24.88"). At highway speed this tire completes roughly 504 revolutions per kilometre, which is what your speedometer and odometer are calibrated against.
Plus-sizing window
If you want to upsize wheels on the 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK while keeping the speedometer accurate, target a 215/47R17 (plus-one). For a softer ride or winter setup, a 195/64R15 (minus-one) keeps the overall diameter within Âą3% of stock, which is the industry tolerance for ABS and stability control to stay calibrated.
Wheel fitment specs
The 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK uses a 5x112 bolt pattern with a 66.6mm hub bore. Safe rim width range for the OEM tire is 6.5J â 7.5J, and offsets in the ET32 â ET42 window will clear suspension and fender without rubbing on most setups.
Staggered setup notes
The 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK ships staggered: 205/55R16 up front and 225/50R16 on the rear. That is a 225mm vs 205mm width difference â do not rotate front-to-rear, and replace tires in axle pairs to keep ABS and traction control balanced.
Tire pressure guidance
Manufacturer-recommended cold tire pressure for the 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK is printed on the driver-side door jamb sticker â always defer to that value, not to the maximum pressure printed on the tire sidewall. Check pressure monthly and before long trips; under-inflation by 20% can reduce tread life by 25%.
Fitment Specifications
| Engine & Trim | Tire Size | Rim Size | Offset (ET) |
|---|---|---|---|
| SLK230 | 205/55R16 Rear: 225/50R16 | 16" x 7.0 | ET37 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What tire size does the 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK SLK230 use?
The 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK SLK230 uses 205/55R16 tires as standard equipment.
What is the bolt pattern of the 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK SLK230?
The 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK SLK230 has a 5x112 bolt pattern with a center bore of 66.6mm.
What is the wheel offset of the 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK SLK230?
The 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK SLK230 has a wheel offset of ETET37.