I have a 98 legacy 2.5 GT I just purchased outback springs and struts now I will be looking for tires and are not sure what size tires I will be able to go with I have 16" wheels can any one help I would like the biggest size possible without rubbing thanks

I'm pretty sure 225/70r16 would be max.

From my research I think 215 65 16 is the max. That's what I'm getting tomorrow for my 96. From what I've heard 225s rub

Depending on the tire, 225s may run the rear strut body.

 

215/65/16 fit great, and don't rub.

I know I've run 225/70r15's on a 99 outback with no issues, granted they weren't brand new though

I have 225/45/17 on 7" rim with no issues on an Outback.

 

O.

From what I have noticed tires can be nearly the same width even though the numbers are different and that seems to be based on the wheel size. Check out this tire calculator I found. Just remember that if 215 65 16s fit perfectly just compare that to whatever other size you might want. https://www.tacomaworld.com/tirecalc?tires=205-70r16-215-65r16

Wheel width has a factor in the final height and width.. Every tire has an optimal width rim and the tire is measured from that. This is why brands have variations

wheel width and offset are both extremely important factors here....

I installed 215-60-16 they fit perfect not sure that I would go any bigger maybe a 215-65-16.