1979-1993 & 94 Conv [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
Depends on what you want. For all-out performance:
If you can tolerate a somewhat smaller than stock diameter, the 195/50-15 Bridgestone RE01R is currently *the* tire to have in national-level autocross competition for classes that require a street tire. Because of the small size, it's not ideal for looks, if that's important, and you'll take a hit in speedo/odo accuracy. It will have the best grip, though!
Second choice, in a 205/50-15, is the Falken Azenis RT615. Very close competitor, a bit closer to stock tire size. Both of these tires are actually closer to 225mm wide; don't let the 195 or 205 fool you. I have run a number of sets of 205/50 Azenis on stock 5.5" rims without issue.
Another option is the Hankook Z212. Not as grippy as the above tires, but inexpensive and plenty of grip, nonetheless. Doubt it comes in a stock diameter, though -- you'd be closest at 205/50-15.
For stock width/diameter, check out the Kumho SPT, which may come in a 195/60-15. If not, then the closest would be a 205/55-15. Very good grip, nice price, good in the wet. Not as good as the above tires. Stock 5.5" rim is a bit narrow for it, but the manufacturer specs the tire to be fine on 5.5", so ignore anyone who says "it's too wide for the rim." (Ideal rim would be 7".)
My recommendations are based on what folks running in SCCA are winning on. There is privately-obtained tire testing data that show the Bridgestone to best the Falken; very few who tested the Hankooks ended up using them when they came out because they weren't fast enough. They do have better wet performance, though; however, not as good as the SPT.
You can probably drop serious coin on high-dollar Michelins or other well-known brand; however, the SCCA autocross scene is such that, if a tire is fast, folks will know about it. The only other brand that folks race on (and which does not come in a decent 15" size) is Yokohama. If you want performance tires with more comfort designed into them, then Michelins or other brands may have what you need.
IMHO, get a custom alignment to more fully realize the tires' capabilities.
0.02
posted by 71.35.165...
No Site Registration is Required to Post - Site Membership is optional (Member Features List), but helps to keep the site online
for all Saabers. If the site helps you, please consider helping the site by becoming a member.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
