Tire Selection

[scherb]

I am looking at a new set of tires and I would like to get some feedback on what is out there. I am looking at 3 brands (2 per Custom Alignments suggestions). Bridgestone, Continental and my Pirelli.

Bridgestone

Potenza S-03 Pole Position

Potenza S-02 A

continental

ContiSportContact 2

Pirelli

PZero Rosso Asimmetrico

Thanks

[Kevin369]

I am looking at a new set of tires and I would like to get some feedback on what is out there. I am looking at 3 brands (2 per Custom Alignments suggestions). Bridgestone, Continental and my Pirelli.

Bridgestone

Potenza S-03 Pole Position

Potenza S-02 A

continental

ContiSportContact 2

Pirelli

PZero Rosso Asimmetrico

Thanks

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I am no tire expert but have heard some various opinions on tires for the Boxster. The S-02 and S-03's are good tires but they are expensive and understandably don't wear so well. The Contis and Pirellis are mediocre. The one tire that I have heard is a surprising bang for the buck tire is the Kumho Ecsta Supra 712's. They are very reasonably priced and aside from having to be kept well inflated for best performance, are a great tire. I think my next set will be these. I certainly don't want to pay $250 for one rear S-03.

Edited October 5, 2004 by Kevin369

[HenryV]

You can read the reviews on tirerack. These are quite informative and reputable.

You can't go wrong with any of the tires you suggest, they are all good tires. It comes down to a personal preference.

My $0.02:

- Bridgestone SO3 gets great reviews for use on the track, but the mileage is low, making them double expensive.

- Kumho's are a 'good' bang for the buck, they don't last long, but they are quite affordable. Handling is very good.

- ContiSportContact2's are actually very good (summer) tires. For California they will do fine, but in cold weather they don't perform as well. Handling and treadwear is excellent (and yes the Conti1's were quite bad OEM's).

- Also look into the Michelin Pilot Sport Rib. It get's great reviews. This is also a long treadwear tire.

- I would stay away from the Pirelli's. Had them on a non-P car (with heavy camber), and they wear extremely fast. However, they were great performers.

For California street driving (inc. rain) I'd recommend the Conti2 or the Michelins. These are also more quiet and comfortable tires to ride on.

If you go on the track, get the Kumho's or the Bridgestones (more $$).

If you are in the east coast (think snow), these tires are not for you.

- Think about how you like driving the car - if you corner fast and often, spent the extra money for the S03 or the Pirelli's. You will get your money's worth. Expect to change them in about a year (I did). If your car is also your daily commuter, get the Conti2 or Michelins.

FWIW, your rear tires wear faster than the front.

As I said, my $0.02 - other people may have different input.

FYI:

- I have had the Pirelli P0's (on non-P)

- I currently have the Conti2 (17")

- Originally I hade the Michelin Pilot Sport MMX (16")

[Tool Pants]

Aileen and I have Sumitomo HTRZII. Was $500 for a set of 4 when I bought them a few years ago. Good bang for the buck.

Next time I think I will try Kumho.

Neither has an N rating, and I do not care.

[perry]

I am looking at a new set of tires and I would like to get some feedback on what is out there. I am looking at 3 brands (2 per Custom Alignments suggestions). Bridgestone, Continental and my Pirelli.

Bridgestone

Potenza S-03 Pole Position

Potenza S-02 A

continental

ContiSportContact 2

Pirelli

PZero Rosso Asimmetrico

Thanks

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

ContiSportContact 2

:drive:

[ar38070]

Regardless of the brand of tire evaluate your driving style. Talk to CA about it and then have your alignment set accordingly. An alignment adjusted for your style of driving can work wonders for tire life.

[natzee]

I currently switch from Potenza S-03 Pole Position

to Kumho Ectas 712. So far, I like it alot. They are cheap.

I got them at tire rack for less than $500.

-Nat

[porscheneer]

Aileen and I have Sumitomo HTRZII.  Was $500 for a set of 4 when I bought them a few years ago.  Good bang for the buck.

Next time I think I will try Kumho.

Neither has an N rating, and I do not care.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Where can I get my paws on the Sumitomo HTRZII , checked online and could not find them!

[scherb]

Tirerack.com has them for under $500 including shipping...