About the 255/40R18 Tire

The 255/40R18 is a common tire size for performance and sports cars such as BMW 3 Series, Volkswagen GTI, and Audi A4.

With a 102.0 mm sidewall (40% aspect ratio), this low-profile tire delivers sharp steering response and precise cornering grip, though the ride feels firmer over rough surfaces.

Compared to the baseline 235/45R18, this tire's overall diameter differs by -1.1% — a speedometer calibrated for 235/45R18 would read 101.1 km/h at an actual 100 km/h.

When replacing, verify that your wheel well can accommodate the 661.2 mm overall diameter. Keep speedometer deviation within ±3% for safety and legal compliance.

Tire Measurements

Tire Code255/40R18
Section Width255 mm
Aspect Ratio40%
Rim Diameter18"
Sidewall Height102.0 mm
Overall Diameter661.2 mm / 26.03"
Circumference2077.2 mm / 81.78"
Revolutions per km481.4
Revolutions per mile774.8

Adjacent Size Comparison

Tire Code OD (mm)Δ mmΔ % Speedo at 100 km/h
235/40R18 645.2 -16.0 -2.4% 102.5
245/40R18 653.2 -8.0 -1.2% 101.2
255/40R18 (current) 661.2 100.0
255/40R19 686.6 +25.4 +3.8% 96.3
255/45R18 686.7 +25.5 +3.9% 96.3
255/55R18 737.7 +76.5 +11.6% 89.6

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall diameter of a 255/40R18 tire?
The overall diameter is 661.2 mm (26.03 in), with a 102.0 mm sidewall on a 18-inch rim.
How many revolutions per kilometer does a 255/40R18 tire make?
It makes 481.4 revolutions per kilometer, with a circumference of 2077.2 mm.
What vehicles commonly use 255/40R18 tires?
The 255/40R18 is standard OEM equipment on performance and sports cars such as BMW 3 Series, Volkswagen GTI, and Audi A4. Always check your owner's manual or door placard before switching sizes.

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