2013 Matched Set (Non-Stock Sized Rears or Fronts) Tires

[NightFlyer]

OK, here’s the list of matched sets (non-stock sized rears or fronts) that I could come up with, currently being produced and readily available for sale in 2013. PLEASE add any that I missed!

Matching Sets – Front 195/60R14 (OEM) / Rear 225/60R15:

Cordovan / Multi-Mile / Vanderbilt - Mirada Sport GTX Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Falken Sincera Touring SN211 Load: 82/95 Speed: T (Sumitomo - Thailand)
Falken ZIEX ZE-912 Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Sumitomo – Japan/Thailand)
Federal SS657 Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Federal - Taiwan)
Fuzion Touring Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Bridgestone – China/USA)
Hankook Optimo H418 Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Hankook – South Korea)
Hero Atlanta AR01 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Federal – Taiwan)
Hero HR668 Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Federal – Taiwan)
Kenda Komet Plus KR23 Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kenda – Taiwan)
Kenda Komet KR02 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Kenda – Taiwan)
Kumho Solus KR21 Load: 85/95 Speed: T (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Power Racer II Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Solus KR21 Load: 85/95 Speed: T (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Matrac MH11 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Maxxis MA-P1 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Chen Shin – Taiwan)
Nankang XR611 Toursport Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Nankang – Taiwan)
Nexen CP641 Load:86/96 Speed: H (Nexen – South Korea)
Nexen N5000 Radial Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Nexen – South Korea)
Primewell PS830/850 Load: 86/97 Speed: H (Giti – China)
Sonar SX-608 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Nankang – Taiwan)
Toyo Extensa A/S Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Toyo – China/USA/Japan)
Vredestein Sportrac 5 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V DESIGNED BY GIUGIARO (Apollo – Netherlands)

Matching Sets – Front 185/60R14 / Rear 235/60R15 (OEM):

Cooper Cobra Radial G/T (Rear RWL) Load: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)
Mastercraft Avenger G/T (Rear RWL) Load: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)
Hercules H/P 4000 (Rear RWL) Load: Speed: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)

Personally, I think I’m going with the Vredesteins, as they’re designed by Giugiaro, just like the car – how AWESOME is that??? They’re also very highly rated!

Anyone else running the Giugiaro Vredesteins?

EDIT: UPDATED LIST HERE (http://dmctalk.org/showthread.php?7285-2013-Matched-Set-(Non-Stock-Sized-Rears-or-Fronts)-Tires&p=107766&viewfull=1#post107766)

[dmc6960]

Falken ZIEX ZE-512 is still being produced and currently available.

[NightFlyer]

Falken ZIEX ZE-512 is still being produced and currently available.

According to the Falken website, the ZIEX ZE-512 was replaced by the ZIEX ZE-912. So, while there still may be an ample stock of the ZIEX ZE-512's out there and available, I don't believe that they're still being produced.

[NightFlyer]

The coolest thing about the Vredesteins is that they say 'GIUGIARO' right on the sidewall! :thumbup:

[jawn101]

Interesting. When I bought my 512s, they were both available. But the 912 was more expensive.

Good list above. It's sad to see the 235s go the way of the dodo, I miss mine already.

[NightFlyer]

Interesting. When I bought my 512s, they were both available. But the 912 was more expensive.

Good list above. It's sad to see the 235s go the way of the dodo, I miss mine already.

Yeah, the 512s are currently hit or miss when I call around to local Falken distributors, but all seem to have the 912 readily available.

Of course, you can still go 235's on the rear, but then cannot have a matched set (at least there aren't any matched sets in the stock sizes that I've been able to find).

Are the 512's made in Japan? I believe the 912's are made in Japan, but have read things stating that Falken may have recently shifted production to Thailand.

Yet another advantage of the Vredesteins is that all Sportrac models are made in either the Netherlands or Germany.

[NightFlyer]

Additions to Matching Sets – Front 195/60R14 (OEM) / Rear 225/60R15:

JINYU YH12 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (??? – China)
Sunny SN880 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (South China – China)
Wanli S-1023 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (South China – China)

[NightFlyer]

Additions to Matching Sets – Front 195/60R14 (OEM) / Rear 225/60R15:

Evergreen EH23 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (??? – China)
GoodRide H550A Load: 86/98 Speed: H (Hangzhou Zhonghce – China)
West Lake H550A Load: 86/98 Speed: H (Hangzhou Zhonghce – China)
Zeetex ZT102 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (ZAFCO Dubai – India/China/Indonesia)

[NightFlyer]

OK, for those interested, I just ordered a set of the Giugiaro Designed Vredestein Sportrac, as they were the best that I could find (made in Holland/Germany) and due to the 'Giugiaro Design' and logo being used on the sidewall - yeah, I'm a big nerd for thinking that's pretty cool! :rock_on:

Falken ZIEX ZE-912 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Sumitomo – Japan/Thailand)

vs.

Vredestein Sportrac 5 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V DESIGNED BY GIUGIARO (Apollo – Holland/Germany)

Notice how the Vredestein Sportrac, as well as other upper brand tires with the same load ratings, have an H speed rating on the front tire and a V speed rating on the rear tire vs. the Falken ZIEX, which has an H speed rating for both the front and rear tires, as is similar to many of the budget, and primarily Chinese brands.

However, I did decide to mix the tread patterns a little. I got the Vredestein Sportrac 3 for the rears, which are readily available now ($133/ea):

http://www.buumer.com/product_images/k/773/vredestein_sportrac_3__68609.jpg

And the Vredestein Sportrac 5 for the front, which had to be ordered from Holland with a 4-6 week estimate on delivery ($93/ea):

http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/images/tyres/Vredestein-Sportrac-5.jpg

The sidewalls are similar on both, but not quite the same:

http://files.topof.ru/pictures/models/vredestein/sportrac-5-03.jpg

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2549/3752228201_f47139cc7d_z.jpg

Total on the set (with new valve stems, mounting, and balancing): $487

[Jeff K]

Awesome post, thanks!

Do you know of any matching sets with 245's in the rear?

Thanks
Jeff

[NightFlyer]

Awesome post, thanks!

Do you know of any matching sets with 245's in the rear?

Thanks
Jeff

None that I was able to find. If you just wanted a bigger rear tire (for whatever reason), the Coopers / Mastercraft / Hercules are all also available in 245/60R15, in addition to the OEM 235/60R15, but you'd still have to run 185/60/R14 in the front in order to have a matching set.

You can get the Vredestein Sportrac 5 as a matching set with 225/60R15 in the rear and the OEM size upfront. I just chose to mix it with a Sportrac 3 in the rear because I really liked the tread design and the rears show the most tread. Unfortunately, the Sportrac 3 is not available in 14" sizes, so you couldn't get a matching set in the Sportrac 3 even if you wanted it.

Hope that helps :thumbup:

[NightFlyer]

Falken ZIEX ZE-512 - 32% Buy Again Rate

http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/Falken/ZE512.htm

Falken ZIEX ZE-912 - 74% Buy Again Rate

http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/Falken/ZE912.htm

Vredestein Sportrac 3 - 85% Buy Again Rate

http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/Vredestein/Sportrac-3.htm

Vredestein Sportrac 5 - 99% Buy Again Rate

http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/Vredestein/Sportrac-5.htm

The choice is yours - but in all honesty, there is no comparison to the Vredestein Sportracs!

[NightFlyer]

Addition to Matching Sets – Front 195/60R14 (OEM) / Rear 225/60R15:

Apollo Acelere Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Apollo – India)

[pezzonovante88]

Those Vredestein Giugiaro tires are absolutely awesome! I'm kind of embarrassed to admit that I've actually never heard of the brand, but wow! They seem very premium.

[NightFlyer]

Those Vredestein Giugiaro tires are absolutely awesome! I'm kind of embarrassed to admit that I've actually never heard of the brand, but wow! They seem very premium.

Before I started compiling this list, I hadn't heard of Vredestein or that Giugiaro designed tires!

I absolutely hate going into a big purchase (anything over $50) without first knowing all the available options, hence my reasoning for compiling this list :smile:

But, I honestly believe that the Vredesteins are the BEST current option for use on original DeLorean wheels.

[NightFlyer]

Current List with best choice in bold:

Matching Sets – Front 195/60R15 (OEM) / Rear 225/60R15:

Apollo Acelere - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Apollo – India)
Cordovan Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Evergreen EH23 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (??? – China)
Falken Sincera Touring SN211 - Load: 82/95 Speed: T (Sumitomo - Thailand)
Falken ZIEX ZE-912 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Sumitomo – Japan/Thailand)
Federal SS657 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Federal - Taiwan)
Fuzion Touring - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Bridgestone – China/USA)
Geostar S6065 - Load: 85/96 Speed: H (Nankang – Taiwan)
GoodRide H550A - Load: 86/98 Speed: H (Hangzhou Zhonghce – China)
Hankook Optimo H418 - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Hankook – South Korea)
Hero Atlanta AR01 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Federal – Taiwan)
Hero HR668 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Federal – Taiwan)
JINYU YH12 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (??? – China)
Kenda Komet Plus KR23 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kenda – Taiwan)
Kenda Komet KR02 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kenda – Taiwan)
Kumho Solus KR21 - Load: 85/95 Speed: T (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Power Racer II - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Solus KR21 - Load: 85/95 Speed: T (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Matrac MH11 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Maxxis MA-P1 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Chen Shin – Taiwan)
Multi-Mile Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Nankang XR611 Toursport - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Nankang – Taiwan)
Nexen CP641 - Load:86/96 Speed: H (Nexen – South Korea)
Nexen N5000 Radial - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Nexen – South Korea)
Ohtsu FP7000 - Load:86/96 Speed: H (Sumitomo – Japan/Thailand)
Primewell PS830/850 - Load: 86/97 Speed: H (Giti – China)
Sigma Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Sonar SX-608 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Nankang – Taiwan)
Sunny SN880 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (South China – China)
Toyo Extensa A/S - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Toyo – China/USA/Japan)
Vanderbilt Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Vredestein Sportrac 5 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V DESIGNED BY GIUGIARO (Apollo – Holland/Germany)
Wanli S-1023 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (South China – China)
West Lake H550A - Load: 86/98 Speed: H (Hangzhou Zhonghce – China)
Zeetex ZT102 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (ZAFCO Dubai – India/China/Indonesia)

Matching Sets – Front 185/60R14 / Rear 235/60R15 (OEM):

Cooper Cobra Radial G/T (Rear RWL) - Load: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)
Mastercraft Avenger G/T (Rear RWL) - Load: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)
Hercules H/P 4000 (Rear RWL) - Load: Speed: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)

[NightFlyer]

Old but cool video about Vredestein:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5XX9UTDQa-c

[eagle-co94]

Thanks for keeping this list updated and current! I may do my Falken purchase again, but I'm steering clear of the Chinese made tires. As for Vredestein, they're fairly common in Europe. I first saw an ad for them at the AAFES service center in Stuttgart while I was there from 09-12. I looked them up and saw that they were local and really love some of their tread patterns.

[pezzonovante88]

Before I started compiling this list, I hadn't heard of Vredestein or that Giugiaro designed tires!

I absolutely hate going into a big purchase (anything over $50) without first knowing all the available options, hence my reasoning for compiling this list :smile:

But, I honestly believe that the Vredesteins are the BEST current option for use on original DeLorean wheels.

The only damn problem is that you can't get them in 235/60/r15 or 245/60/r15. That's the ONLY killer for me. I'm just a stickler for not going down a size (even if it is barely noticeable). Otherwise, they're super cool, being that they're also obscure (but certainly not cheapo) like our cars.

[dmc6960]

I'm just a stickler for not going down a size (even if it is barely noticeable).

I've had 245, 235, and 225 on my car. If 235 were to become available again matched, I'd certainly return to that size. But if the only choice for a while remains up or down, I'd choose down.

Have you seen a car with 225 by chance? Good 225s will grip the road just as well as 235.

[Mark D]

Even back in the 80's I think it was tough to find matched sets in the stock sizes. When filming BTTF they swapped the NCT's to outlined white letter Goodyear Eagle GT's and the rears were 245's instead of 235's.

[NightFlyer]

Going to 245's on the rear doesn't help any when trying to maintain a matched set, as their aren't any currently being produced/available that I could find, except for the fact that you could increase the Cooper / Mastercraft / Hercules rears to 245/60R15 if you really wanted to, even though they're also available in the stock 235/60R15. No matter what you decide to do with the rears, you'd still have to run the smaller sized 185/60R14 in the fronts to maintain a matched set of these.

I guess the reason that I'd prefer going down a size as opposed to going up a size is that going up a size could cause rubbing issues - especially on lowered cars, as previously reported by DMCMW Dave.

[Dangermouse]

Minor issue, but one possibly worth making:

The closest match to the OEM 195/60R14 would be 185/65 R14, rather than 185/60 R14 in terms of overall diameter and therefore "accuracy" of the speedometer.

The 185/60's would be 2% slower than OEM and the 185/65 would be 1% faster than OEM.

Definitely negligible either way, but may open up some more choices.

http://www.1010tires.com/Tools/Tire-Size-Calculator/195-60R14/195-60R14/185-60R14/185-65R14

[NightFlyer]

Thanks for keeping this list updated and current! I may do my Falken purchase again, but I'm steering clear of the Chinese made tires. As for Vredestein, they're fairly common in Europe. I first saw an ad for them at the AAFES service center in Stuttgart while I was there from 09-12. I looked them up and saw that they were local and really love some of their tread patterns.

Try googling 'Falken ZIEX made in thailand.'

It looks as if the Falken ZIEX may be made in Thailand now, as opposed to Japan. I think that Jim Reeve (aka dmc6960) just recently bought a set of the Falken ZIEX-912s. Perhaps he can inform us of where his tires were made. Regardless of where they're made, the ZIEX-912s are the second best choice for a matched set.

Personally, I prefer to avoid buying anything produced in low wage / exploited labor / out-sourcing nations whenever possible. If you're like me in that regard, then the only real choice available are the Vredesteins, only ever made in Holland/Germany. If you're lucky enough to find a set of the Fuzion Touring or Toyo Extensa A/S that are made in the USA, those would be the only equals to the Vredesteins. Second would be the Falken ZIEXs' if they're really still being made in Japan. Next in line would be any of the tires produced in South Korea or any of the Cooper / Mastercraft / Hercules sets made in Mexico. Then the made in India Apollo Acelere or Zeetex ZT102. Personally, I wouldn't go any lower than that.

[dmc6960]

It looks as if the Falken ZIEX may be made in Thailand now, as opposed to Japan. I think that Jim Reeve (aka dmc6960) just recently bought a set of the Falken ZIEX-912s. Perhaps he can inform us of where his tires were made. Regardless of where they're made, the ZIEX-912s are the second best choice for a matched set.

I can check this tonight. Dont have the car with me right now as the seats are removed. Am I looking for a plain English "MADE IN JAPAN/THAILAND" or will it be a little more cryptic like a code?

[Jacko]

Even back in the 80's I think it was tough to find matched sets in the stock sizes. When filming BTTF they swapped the NCT's to outlined white letter Goodyear Eagle GT's and the rears were 245's instead of 235's.

This reminds me of something I've always wondered. Shortly after BTTF came out I was having a conversation with Ed B and he told me that "we" had to install some kind of wheel inside the rear wheels that was used to lessen the load on the rear tires so they could spin ... anyone know if this is true? Did Ed's crew at the time even work on the BTTF cars?

[NightFlyer]

Minor issue, but one possibly worth making:

The closest match to the OEM 195/60R14 would be 185/65 R14, rather than 185/60 R14 in terms of overall diameter and therefore "accuracy" of the speedometer.

The 185/60's would be 2% slower than OEM and the 185/65 would be 1% faster than OEM.

Definitely negligible either way, but may open up some more choices.

http://www.1010tires.com/Tools/Tire-Size-Calculator/195-60R14/195-60R14/185-60R14/185-65R14

Unfortunately, it doesn't appear that it does.

[NightFlyer]

I can check this tonight. Dont have the car with me right now as the seats are removed. Am I looking for a plain English "MADE IN JAPAN/THAILAND" or will it be a little more cryptic like a code?

Should just be a plain English 'Made in ....

Thanks Jim :thumbup:

[NightFlyer]

This reminds me of something I've always wondered. Shortly after BTTF came out I was having a conversation with Ed B and he told me that "we" had to install some kind of wheel inside the rear wheels that was used to lessen the load on the rear tires so they could spin ... anyone know if this is true? Did Ed's crew at the time even work on the BTTF cars?

I would think that they would have used a line lock to get the rear tires to spin as they did in the remote control scene in BTTF - but that would consist of an electronic valve installed inline on the brake lines and nothing special on the hub.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Line_lock

I honestly don't know though.

[NightFlyer]

I can check this tonight. Dont have the car with me right now as the seats are removed. Am I looking for a plain English "MADE IN JAPAN/THAILAND" or will it be a little more cryptic like a code?

Hey Jim - This is from an eBay listing of the Falken ZIEX ZE-912 in 225/40R18:

http://i1199.photobucket.com/albums/aa470/Barneys-Tire/eBay4/22540R18FalkenZiex912-4.jpg

In the lower left, you can see where it says 'Thailand' on that tire.

From what I've read online, some sizes are still being made in Japan, while other sizes have been shifted to Thailand. I wish that the manufacturers would just be honest and put on their websites where their darned products are made - it would make things so much easier :wink:

[dmc6960]

All four tires...








Made in Thailand.

[Dangermouse]

So is that good or bad?

[NightFlyer]

All four tires...
Made in Thailand.

Thanks Jim! :thumbup:

Majority consumer consensus appears to favor the Thailand made ZIEX ZE-912's over the Japanese made ZIEX ZE-512's - interesting!

I'd still rank the Falken's second best to the Vredesteins for our cars. One advantage to the Falkens is that they're definitely widely available. Vredestein has a limited distribution in the US and a majority of sizes of the Sportrac 5 (and specifically the sizes needed for our cars) currently need to be special ordered from Holland, although they do expect to have all sizes domestically in stock within the next two months. I'm lucky in that I'm just down the road from the largest Vredestein distributor in the county :burnout:

[NightFlyer]

So is that good or bad?

All depends on what you value.

It appears that the Thailand made 912's are indeed a much better tire than the Japanese made 512's were. However, as far as labor and environmental standards are concerned, Thailand is much more exploitational than Japan is.

Again, I personally go out of my way to try to avoid purchasing products made with exploitational labor/environmental standards whenever possible, even if that means spending a few extra dollars. The price I got on my Vredesteins, which I don't actually have in my possession yet because the Sportrac 5's for the front had to be ordered from Holland, ran about $100 more for the set than the best online price I've seen for a set of the Falken 912's.

To each their own - but I'm sticking with the Dutch/German made Vredesteins for the D from here on out unless something better comes along. The Giugiaro design is an added bonus that I still think is unbelievably cool :biggrin:

FWIW, I run made in USA General Ultimax HP's on my DD and a majority of my other cars and couldn't be happier with them.

[NightFlyer]

Update on my Vredestein tire (tyre) purchase:

The Sportrac 3's in 225/60R15 have been sold out and the model has been discontinued in favor of the Sportrac 5's, so I was unable to get the Sportrac 3's for the rear as originally planned. I was told by my local Vredestein distributor that it would probably take 8-12 weeks before the Sportrac 5's would be available here in the states in the sizes needed for our cars.

So, I contacted Vredestein directly to see if we could get the 225/60R15 and 195/60R14 sizes of the Sportrac 5 sooner than that. I wasn't actually expecting a response from corporate, however, and to my utter surprise, they responded right away and are making sure that the Sportrac 5's in our sizes are being loaded onto the next US bound container!

The corporate rep actually appreciated the Giugiaro connection between our cars and their tyres, and also informed me that they were being hassled by S1-S3 Lotus Esprit owners here in the states for a proper 235/60R15 tire. Although there was no commitment, they may look into producing a 235/60R15 in the near future, so that we'll once again have a matching set option in the OEM sizes! How great would that be, in that not only would we actually have a matching set in the OEM sizes, but with Giugiaro designed tires made in Holland, as opposed to a generic designed tire made in an Asian sweatshop.

Given the fact that they're actually willing to listen and are accommodating my request to ship over the Giugiaro Designed Sportrac 5 in our sizes earlier than originally anticipated, I personally believe that owners should consider Vredestein to be the new standard for DeLorean tires

DMC vendors should definitely consider supporting Vredestein as their official tire provider.

For those interested in getting a matching set of Giugiaro Designed Sportrac 5's in the OEM 195/60R15 in the front and the compromise 225/60R15 in the rear, you can contact The Tire Factory, Inc., via either of their websites:

http://www.tirefactory.net/
http://www.tiresbyweb.com/

The Tire Factory offers free shipping and handling anywhere in the US, so there's no reason to settle for an inferior set of Asian made tires on your car.

Again, the Sportrac 5's walk all over the Falken ZIEX ZE-912 in both professional and consumer reviews.

[jawn101]

Maybe you should actually get yours and drive on them before we go declaring them the gold standard of the world... :)

It is promising that anyone would even consider doing a run of proper sized tires for us.

[DMCMW Dave]

I don't think you'll find a set of Cooper Cobras anywhere, they've been out of production well over a year now. Any you find (including the clones MasterCraft and probably Hercules) are old stock, be sure to check date codes!

[NightFlyer]

Maybe you should actually get yours and drive on them before we go declaring them the gold standard of the world... :)

It is promising that anyone would even consider doing a run of proper sized tires for us.

But of course - I should have my set in the next 4-5 weeks or sooner, and will be sure to update with my opinion of the tires and pictures.

It's very encouraging that Vredestein is willing to listen and consider. I would image that the more support they see for the current offerings, the better the chance of a possible run of matching OEM sized tires in the future.


I don't think you'll find a set of Cooper Cobras anywhere, they've been out of production well over a year now. Any you find (including the clones MasterCraft and probably Hercules) are old stock, be sure to check date codes!

No longer looking for a set of the Cooper Cobras or any of the clones - that was a different thread concerning RWL sidewalls. I ended up going with the Vredestein Sportrac 5's. See my other postings in this thread for more info, as well as a current list of all available matching sets in non-stock close compromise sizes.

[Farrar]

DESIGNED BY GIUGIARO


they say 'GIUGIARO' right on the sidewall!


'Giugiaro Design' and logo being used on the sidewall


Those Vredestein Giugiaro tires are absolutely awesome!


DESIGNED BY GIUGIARO


The Giugiaro design is an added bonus

Okay, I'll bite. Is Giugiaro really good at tire design, or does everybody just like the fact that the tires were designed by the same guy who designed the body and have his name on them? Sorry if I seem skeptical, but I'm not the kind of consumer who just runs out and buys something because it has a famous name on it, and I have never heard or read anything about Giugiaro's fantastic tires beating out the competition hands-down in performance and longevity tests.

I'm also amazed at how many people here seem to be driving their DeLorean at speeds exceeding the legal limit on a regular basis. ;)

[jawn101]

Okay, I'll bite. Is Giugiaro really good at tire design, or does everybody just like the fact that the tires were designed by the same guy who designed the body and have his name on them? Sorry if I seem skeptical, but I'm not the kind of consumer who just runs out and buys something because it has a famous name on it, and I have never heard or read anything about Giugiaro's fantastic tires beating out the competition hands-down in performance and longevity tests.

I'm also amazed at how many people here seem to be driving their DeLorean at speeds exceeding the legal limit on a regular basis. ;)

I'm with you on this. I've never even heard of this brand, and always thought of Giugiaro as an aesthetics shop. That's why I said maybe we should see how these tires actually work before we deem them the be-all, end-all of tiredom. Honestly the thread is starting to read a little like an ad for Giugiaro!

[pezzonovante88]

Okay, I'll bite. Is Giugiaro really good at tire design, or does everybody just like the fact that the tires were designed by the same guy who designed the body and have his name on them? Sorry if I seem skeptical, but I'm not the kind of consumer who just runs out and buys something because it has a famous name on it, and I have never heard or read anything about Giugiaro's fantastic tires beating out the competition hands-down in performance and longevity tests.

I'm also amazed at how many people here seem to be driving their DeLorean at speeds exceeding the legal limit on a regular basis. ;)

I asked myself the same thing, but then I've read some rave reviews about Vredestein tires (the ones with Giugiaro design) in general and they're associated with some top-end exotic brands (which would only use the best tires). I wouldn't think it would matter too much since most DeLoreans aren't being "pushed to their limits" (not that the "limits" are very high anyway). But clearly the main attraction for us D owners IS the name printed on the sidewall!

[NightFlyer]

Okay, I'll bite. Is Giugiaro really good at tire design, or does everybody just like the fact that the tires were designed by the same guy who designed the body and have his name on them? Sorry if I seem skeptical, but I'm not the kind of consumer who just runs out and buys something because it has a famous name on it, and I have never heard or read anything about Giugiaro's fantastic tires beating out the competition hands-down in performance and longevity tests.

I'm also amazed at how many people here seem to be driving their DeLorean at speeds exceeding the legal limit on a regular basis. ;)


I'm with you on this. I've never even heard of this brand, and always thought of Giugiaro as an aesthetics shop. That's why I said maybe we should see how these tires actually work before we deem them the be-all, end-all of tiredom. Honestly the thread is starting to read a little like an ad for Giugiaro!


I asked myself the same thing, but then I've read some rave reviews about Vredestein tires (the ones with Giugiaro design) in general and they're associated with some top-end exotic brands (which would only use the best tires). I wouldn't think it would matter too much since most DeLoreans aren't being "pushed to their limits" (not that the "limits" are very high anyway). But clearly the main attraction for us D owners IS the name printed on the sidewall!

The bottom line here is that in order to get a current matched set of tires, it's either the Giugiaro Designed Vredestein Tires (made in the Netherlands/Holland) or your choice of an inferior Asian/Indian/Mexican sweatshop made tire.

Prior to the compilation of this list, it appeared that a majority of owners were adopting the Falken ZIEX ZE-912, made in Thailand, as the current high water mark. Take a look at the professional and consumer reviews:

Vredestein Sportrac 5 (Giugiaro Design, Made in Holland)
http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/Vredestein/Sportrac-5.htm

The Sportrac 5's consistently placed in the top 3 spots among professional testing, and 98% of consumers running them would definitely buy them again.

Falken ZIEX ZE-912 (Made in Thailand)
http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/Falken/ZE912.htm

Placed 9th and 13th in the two professional tests it qualified for, and only 73% of consumers running them would definitely buy them again. BTW - The last time I checked the review, the buy again rate was at 85%, so the longer consumers experience the Falkens, the less they like them.

It's up to you, but why buy a product made in an exploitational sweat shop when there's a better alternative available that is actually willing to listen to its customers and is only slightly higher in price???

[Farrar]

It's up to you, but why buy a product made in an exploitational sweat shop when there's a better alternative available that is actually willing to listen to its customers and is only slightly higher in price???

Those aren't the only options.

Nice of you to go to Thailand and confirm that the tires are made in a sweat shop. Thanks on behalf of us who have a smaller travel budget. :)

[eagle-co94]

Well I just checked with Tire rack.com and they say that they only carry 2 options in a matching front and rear if running 225's. Fuzion Touring and Kumho Solus. The Kumhos are out for me as the fronts are only made in China, the rears in China or Korea. The Fuzions are made in the U.S. or China. If I place an order I'll just stipulate that I want U.S. made tires, otherwise cancel the order.

[NightFlyer]

Those aren't the only options.

Nice of you to go to Thailand and confirm that the tires are made in a sweat shop. Thanks on behalf of us who have a smaller travel budget. :)

Farrar - if you're aware of additional matching sets other than those on my list, then why not post what you know?

Do you honestly believe that labor and environmental standards in Thailand are equal to those here or in Holland/Netherlands? Come on - SERIOUSLY?!?!

[NightFlyer]

If you're lucky enough to find a set of the Fuzion Touring or Toyo Extensa A/S that are made in the USA, those would be the only equals to the Vredesteins.


Well I just checked with Tire rack.com and they say that they only carry 2 options in a matching front and rear if running 225's. Fuzion Touring and Kumho Solus. The Kumhos are out for me as the fronts are only made in China, the rears in China or Korea. The Fuzions are made in the U.S. or China. If I place an order I'll just stipulate that I want U.S. made tires, otherwise cancel the order.

Yeah, I previously mentioned the Fuzions in post #24, however, when I contacted TireRack, the only Fuzions they had in stock in our sizes were the made in China ones, thus the reason why I premised post #24 by stating "[i]f you're lucky enough to find... ."

It took a lot to time and a lot of research to compile the list that I did. As far as I know, it's accurate and all inclusive. If anyone knows of any errors or additions, then please share by posting!

Here's the current list:

Matching Sets – Front 195/60R15 (OEM) / Rear 225/60R15:

Apollo Acelere - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Apollo – India)
Cordovan Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Evergreen EH23 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (??? – China)
Falken Sincera Touring SN211 - Load: 82/95 Speed: T (Sumitomo - Thailand)
Falken ZIEX ZE-912 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Sumitomo – Japan/Thailand)
Federal SS657 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Federal - Taiwan)
Fuzion Touring - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Bridgestone – China/USA)
Geostar S6065 - Load: 85/96 Speed: H (Nankang – Taiwan)
GoodRide H550A - Load: 86/98 Speed: H (Hangzhou Zhonghce – China)
Hankook Optimo H418 - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Hankook – South Korea)
Hero Atlanta AR01 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Federal – Taiwan)
Hero HR668 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Federal – Taiwan)
JINYU YH12 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (??? – China)
Kenda Komet Plus KR23 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kenda – Taiwan)
Kenda Komet KR02 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kenda – Taiwan)
Kumho Solus KR21 - Load: 85/95 Speed: T (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Power Racer II - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Solus KR21 - Load: 85/95 Speed: T (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Matrac MH11 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Maxxis MA-P1 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Chen Shin – Taiwan)
Multi-Mile Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Nankang XR611 Toursport - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Nankang – Taiwan)
Nexen CP641 - Load:86/96 Speed: H (Nexen – South Korea)
Nexen N5000 Radial - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Nexen – South Korea)
Ohtsu FP7000 - Load:86/96 Speed: H (Sumitomo – Japan/Thailand)
Primewell PS830/850 - Load: 86/97 Speed: H (Giti – China)
Sigma Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Sonar SX-608 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Nankang – Taiwan)
Sunny SN880 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (South China – China)
Toyo Extensa A/S - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Toyo – China/USA/Japan)
Vanderbilt Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Vredestein Sportrac 5 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V DESIGNED BY GIUGIARO (Apollo – Holland/Germany)
Wanli S-1023 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (South China – China)
West Lake H550A - Load: 86/98 Speed: H (Hangzhou Zhonghce – China)
Zeetex ZT102 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (ZAFCO Dubai – India/China/Indonesia)

Matching Sets – Front 185/60R14 / Rear 235/60R15 (OEM):

Cooper Cobra Radial G/T (Rear RWL) - Load: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)
Mastercraft Avenger G/T (Rear RWL) - Load: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)
Hercules H/P 4000 (Rear RWL) - Load: Speed: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)

[eagle-co94]

Looks like you need to add the Cooper CS4 Touring to your list. They're also available in matched sizes if going to a 225 from Tires.com. Through the end of the month there is a $60 Visa gift card rebate for a purchase of 4 tires in a single order too.

[NightFlyer]

Looks like you need to add the Cooper CS4 Touring to your list. They're also available in matched sizes if going to a 225 from Tires.com. Through the end of the month there is a $60 Visa gift card rebate for a purchase of 4 tires in a single order too.

Good find - highly rated and made in either the USA or China! I honestly don't know how I missed this one.

Cooper CS4 Touring - Load 86/96 Speed: H (Cooper - USA/China)

[louielouie2000]

Looks like the majority of the brands discussed here are soon to be owned by the same parent company:

http://www.leftlanenews.com/indian-firm-buys-ohio-based-cooper-tire.html

Perhaps if DeLorean owners team up and apply pressure, Cooper could be convinced to restart production of the Cobra tires in the CORRECT DeLorean sizes?

For me, I'd much rather have the CORRECT tire sizes for the DeLorean rather than downsizing the rear tires on a car with a 65% rear weight bias (with no rear anti-roll bars or traction/stability control systems) just for the sake of having the same brand name on all 4 wheels. Pirelli makes P600's in 235 60 15 and Michelin still makes Pilots in 195 60 14. That's the option I'd personally chose. Others obviously go their own routes for their own reasons. :)

[Farrar]

Farrar - if you're aware of additional matching sets other than those on my list, then why not post what you know?

Do you honestly believe that labor and environmental standards in Thailand are equal to those here or in Holland/Netherlands? Come on - SERIOUSLY?!?!

Coopers are made in the U.S.A. (not all of them -- you have to ask). The Coopers on my DeLorean have done just fine so far. But I don't drive over 70 MPH.

And it's rude to shout, even if you missed the joke.

[NightFlyer]

Looks like the majority of the brands discussed here are soon to be owned by the same parent company:

http://www.leftlanenews.com/indian-firm-buys-ohio-based-cooper-tire.html

Perhaps if DeLorean owners team up and apply pressure, Cooper could be convinced to restart production of the Cobra tires in the CORRECT DeLorean sizes?

For me, I'd much rather have the CORRECT tire sizes for the DeLorean rather than downsizing the rear tires on a car with a 65% rear weight bias (with no rear anti-roll bars or traction/stability control systems) just for the sake of having the same brand name on all 4 wheels. Pirelli makes P600's in 235 60 15 and Michelin still makes Pilots in 195 60 14. That's the option I'd personally chose. Others obviously go their own routes for their own reasons. :)

WOW - and that just happened today! Talk about timing...

Anyway, a Vredestein corporate rep explained to me that they're already being pressured to release a Giugiaro Designed tire in 235/60R15 by the S1-S3 Lotus Esprit owners. When I informed them that DeLorean owners would also be extremely interested in this, they took note but couldn't exactly commit to anything. As I previously stated, perhaps if we supported their existing product today, the Sportrac 5, they will be more likely to produce a complete matching set in the OEM sizes for us in the future.

While I personally have nothing against the Cooper Cobra Radial G/T, it's only a 'T' speed-rated tire. OEM calls for at least an 'H' speed rating. The Sportrac 5's are H rated on the front and V rated on the rear.

The Pirelli P600 is a very nice tire, and also relatively expensive.

As for the Michelin Pilot, while there still may be old stock available, they are no longer producing it in 195/60R14.

[NightFlyer]

Coopers are made in the U.S.A. (not all of them -- you have to ask). The Coopers on my DeLorean have done just fine so far. But I don't drive over 70 MPH.

And it's rude to shout, even if you missed the joke.

Hey Farrar,

I read it as more like a jab as opposed to a joke. That's one of the problems with internet communications - sometimes it's hard to gauge tonality and intent. In any case, I apologize if I at all offended you.

Regarding the Cooper CS4 Touring, I emailed them inquiring as to where that model in our sizes is currently being made. I'll post their reply upon receipt.

As for driving fast, in some states, the limit is as high as 85mph. Here in Michigan, it's 70mph, which means that traffic commonly flows at 80mph or above.

[eagle-co94]

I fail to see how buying something in the incorrect size from a company is supposed to convince them to produce the correct size.

I could care less about having an h rated tire on my DeLorean. I will not have a need to do sustained 130mph stints which is what h rating is. I'll be happy enough with s rated tires as I won't be doing any sustained driving over 100 mph.

[Farrar]

I apologize if I at all offended you.

No worries! On the Internet, I give everyone the benefit of the doubt; things are twice as likely to "come across wrong." :)


As for driving fast, in some states, the limit is as high as 85mph. Here in Michigan, it's 70mph, which means that traffic commonly flows at 80mph or above.

The limit here in Louisiana is 70MPH. Which for me means 70 MPH. :)

[cpistocco]

OK, here’s the list of matched sets (non-stock sized rears or fronts) that I could come up with, currently being produced and readily available for sale in 2013. PLEASE add any that I missed!

Matching Sets – Front 195/60R14 (OEM) / Rear 225/60R15:

Cordovan / Multi-Mile / Vanderbilt - Mirada Sport GTX Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Falken Sincera Touring SN211 Load: 82/95 Speed: T (Sumitomo - Thailand)
Falken ZIEX ZE-912 Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Sumitomo – Japan/Thailand)
Federal SS657 Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Federal - Taiwan)
Fuzion Touring Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Bridgestone – China/USA)
Hankook Optimo H418 Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Hankook – South Korea)
Hero Atlanta AR01 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Federal – Taiwan)
Hero HR668 Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Federal – Taiwan)
Kenda Komet Plus KR23 Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kenda – Taiwan)
Kenda Komet KR02 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Kenda – Taiwan)
Kumho Solus KR21 Load: 85/95 Speed: T (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Power Racer II Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Solus KR21 Load: 85/95 Speed: T (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Matrac MH11 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Maxxis MA-P1 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Chen Shin – Taiwan)
Nankang XR611 Toursport Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Nankang – Taiwan)
Nexen CP641 Load:86/96 Speed: H (Nexen – South Korea)
Nexen N5000 Radial Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Nexen – South Korea)
Primewell PS830/850 Load: 86/97 Speed: H (Giti – China)
Sonar SX-608 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Nankang – Taiwan)
Toyo Extensa A/S Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Toyo – China/USA/Japan)
Vredestein Sportrac 5 Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V DESIGNED BY GIUGIARO (Apollo – Netherlands)

Matching Sets – Front 185/60R14 / Rear 235/60R15 (OEM):

Cooper Cobra Radial G/T (Rear RWL) Load: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)
Mastercraft Avenger G/T (Rear RWL) Load: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)
Hercules H/P 4000 (Rear RWL) Load: Speed: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)

Personally, I think I’m going with the Vredesteins, as they’re designed by Giugiaro, just like the car – how AWESOME is that??? They’re also very highly rated!

Anyone else running the Giugiaro Vredesteins?

How about BF Goodrich radial TA 2356015 rear 2156014 in front? The front tire is only a few millimeters larger...
and it comes in raised whites (which some people hate, but I like on the D).....

[Farrar]

The front tire is only a few millimeters larger...

In this case, "a few" = 20.

I'd worry about the tires rubbing if my car were lower than stock.

[louielouie2000]

In this case, "a few" = 20.

I'd worry about the tires rubbing if my car were lower than stock.

Exactly. Not to mention the angle drive is driven from a front wheel. Larger front tires = incorrect speedometer.

I just don't get the desperate allure of keeping the same brand name on the front & back tires at the expense of incorrect tire sizes. The DeLorean was under-engineered, hence all of the fixes/upgrades/etc which are necessary to keep these cars on the road. Putting less rubber on the back of your DeLorean is a dangerous proposition considering how many folks apparently deem it necessary instead to have higher speed-ratings. Anyone else ever had a DeLorean oversteer to the point it swaps ends on you? I have, and it's not a progressive, predictable behavior. It's quite sudden, and there's no stopping it once the rear breaks loose. The car swings around like a pendulum. Lowering a DeLorean's oversteer threshold is not a good thing, folks.

[Farrar]

Lowering a DeLorean's oversteer threshold is not a good thing, folks.

I agree with Louie and his voice of experience here. I will add that early in development, the car didn't have giant wheels and tires on the rear.

http://farm2.staticflickr.com/1224/1412253221_e03abb36fe.jpg

Then the car went from mid-engine to rear-engine configuration, with a heavier powerplant than the original Citroën 4-clyinder, and the wheels and tires in the back got bigger... so much bigger that they added a spacer to stop the tires from rubbing...

[Dangermouse]

Good grief, I never knew there were so many tire brands

Stumbled across this listing/review site, showing all tires available in the UK. They seem to get a bunch of far-east brands ('Chinese ditchfinders' as they are affectionately known) Turns out that there is a class of tires below "economy"

http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/

Vredestein seem to get decent reviews

[NightFlyer]

How about BF Goodrich radial TA 2356015 rear 2156014 in front? The front tire is only a few millimeters larger...
and it comes in raised whites (which some people hate, but I like on the D).....

DMCMW Dave reports rubbing issues on cars running 205/60R14 on the front, let alone a 215. For this reason, I did not bother to explore such a combination.

There's also the speedometer/odometer angle-drive situation, as noted by louielouie2000 and others.

[NightFlyer]

Exactly. Not to mention the angle drive is driven from a front wheel. Larger front tires = incorrect speedometer.

I just don't get the desperate allure of keeping the same brand name on the front & back tires at the expense of incorrect tire sizes. The DeLorean was under-engineered, hence all of the fixes/upgrades/etc which are necessary to keep these cars on the road. Putting less rubber on the back of your DeLorean is a dangerous proposition considering how many folks apparently deem it necessary instead to have higher speed-ratings. Anyone else ever had a DeLorean oversteer to the point it swaps ends on you? I have, and it's not a progressive, predictable behavior. It's quite sudden, and there's no stopping it once the rear breaks loose. The car swings around like a pendulum. Lowering a DeLorean's oversteer threshold is not a good thing, folks.

I'm more of a straight line performance driving (aka drag-racing) kind of guy than a spirited track-day style driver, but never drive the D in a performance manner of any kind as the power just isn't there. Furthermore, I would never do anything stupid with my car, and would hope that other owners are the same in this regard.

BTW - I'm currently still driving on the original Goodyear NCT's, so any new rubber, even if slightly smaller on the rear, would probably represent a huge improvement, though I can't say anything bad about the NCT's - they've been GREAT thus far!

[NightFlyer]

Direct from Cooper - "all of the CS4 Touring tires are manufactured in the USA."

Add to that, it appears to be a highly rated tire in both professional tests and consumer reviews.

Here's the updated list:

Matching Sets – Front 195/60R15 (OEM) / Rear 225/60R15:

Apollo Acelere - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Apollo – India)
Cooper CS4 Touring – Load 86/96 Speed: H (Cooper – USA)
Cordovan Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Evergreen EH23 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (??? – China)
Falken Sincera Touring SN211 - Load: 82/95 Speed: T (Sumitomo - Thailand)
Falken ZIEX ZE-912 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Sumitomo – Japan/Thailand)
Federal SS657 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Federal - Taiwan)
Fuzion Touring - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Bridgestone – China/USA)
Geostar S6065 - Load: 85/96 Speed: H (Nankang – Taiwan)
GoodRide H550A - Load: 86/98 Speed: H (Hangzhou Zhonghce – China)
Hankook Optimo H418 - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Hankook – South Korea)
Hero Atlanta AR01 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Federal – Taiwan)
Hero HR668 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Federal – Taiwan)
JINYU YH12 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (??? – China)
Kenda Komet Plus KR23 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kenda – Taiwan)
Kenda Komet KR02 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kenda – Taiwan)
Kumho Solus KR21 - Load: 85/95 Speed: T (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Power Racer II - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Solus KR21 - Load: 85/95 Speed: T (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Matrac MH11 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Maxxis MA-P1 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Chen Shin – Taiwan)
Multi-Mile Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Nankang XR611 Toursport - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Nankang – Taiwan)
Nexen CP641 - Load:86/96 Speed: H (Nexen – South Korea)
Nexen N5000 Radial - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Nexen – South Korea)
Ohtsu FP7000 - Load:86/96 Speed: H (Sumitomo – Japan/Thailand)
Primewell PS830/850 - Load: 86/97 Speed: H (Giti – China)
Sigma Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Sonar SX-608 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Nankang – Taiwan)
Sunny SN880 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (South China – China)
Toyo Extensa A/S - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Toyo – China/USA/Japan)
Vanderbilt Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Vredestein Sportrac 5 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V DESIGNED BY GIUGIARO (Apollo – Netherlands)
Wanli S-1023 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (South China – China)
West Lake H550A - Load: 86/98 Speed: H (Hangzhou Zhonghce – China)
Zeetex ZT102 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (ZAFCO Dubai – India/China/Indonesia)

Matching Sets – Front 185/60R14 / Rear 235/60R15 (OEM):

Cooper Cobra Radial G/T (Rear RWL) - Load: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)
Mastercraft Avenger G/T (Rear RWL) - Load: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)
Hercules H/P 4000 (Rear RWL) - Load: Speed: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)

[Bitsyncmaster]

This is a great thread. My driver side rear tire is still slowly leaking air after having the bead sealed with bead seal. Well the tires are just too old to play with anymore so I'm forced to get new ones (before DCS-2014 anyway). I also do not see any need to have matching brand tires on front and back so will stick with original sizes.

My plan is to have all four tires removed, clean up the bead area with sandpaper, install new tire valves and then get new tires mounted and balanced. Wish I could justify sending the rims off for machine finish but right now that is not in my budget.

[cpistocco]

In this case, "a few" = 20.

I'd worry about the tires rubbing if my car were lower than stock.

I would not reccommend the 215's for a lowered front end. But for a stock front end you would split those 20mm in half giving you only 10 mm inboard which is where it might rub... The outer diameter of the tire would not be too far off from original. Also the bf is available in 235 60 15 in the rear.

[NightFlyer]

Just got confirmation and prices on a matching set of the Giugiaro Designed Vredestein Sportrac 5's from the Tire Factory / Tires By Web, with an estimated 3-5 week delivery time frame.

Front 195/60R14 - $119/ea
Rear 225/60R15 - $159/ea

Total on the set: $556

The Tire Factory / Tires By Web offers free shipping anywhere in the continental US.

http://www.tirefactory.net/
http://www.tiresbyweb.com/

Will update once they arrive and I have them on my D!

[NightFlyer]

Just arrived via FedEx:

Made in the Netherlands, Giugiaro Designed Vredestein Spotrac 5's! Going on the D sometime next week 8)

http://www.dmctoday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=363&d=1374857807
http://www.dmctoday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=364&d=1374857817
http://www.dmctoday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=365&d=1374857827

[Dangermouse]

Well show us the "design" then ;)
Unless its the round bit

[wiresman]

I would love to see a pic of those Giugiaro's mounted on your Delorean. I need to get new tires as mine are old and I can't keep putting off the replacement much longer. The current tires are actually getting a yellow film on them constantly and the tread is cracking. BTW, the aforementioned list shows the front tires as being R15's. I don't mind mismatching brands or tread patterns, but I don't want it to look like a truck tire on the rear either…anyone got pics of recently installed tires? I plan on dropping the front, as I'm tired of being the only one pointing to the sky at cruise-ins. http://dmctalk.org/images/smilies/headbang.gif

[Ryan King]

I didn't bother to skim through all these pages to check...but have these been brought up? Its a pretty close match...at least it can be BF Goodrich all round..

Fronts -
http://www.bfgoodrichtires.com/tire-selector/size/EMetric/195/60/14/tires

Rears -
http://www.bfgoodrichtires.com/tire-selector/size/PMetric/235/60/15/tires

Anyone have any thoughts?

[Ryan King]

Just arrived via FedEx:

Made in the Netherlands, Giugiaro Designed Vredestein Spotrac 5's! Going on the D sometime next week 8)

http://www.dmctoday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=363&d=1374857807
http://www.dmctoday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=364&d=1374857817
http://www.dmctoday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=365&d=1374857827

Your pictures are broken for me...can you please re-add them? How do they feel on your DeLorean?

[NightFlyer]

I didn't bother to skim through all these pages to check...but have these been brought up? Its a pretty close match...at least it can be BF Goodrich all round..

Fronts -
http://www.bfgoodrichtires.com/tire-selector/size/EMetric/195/60/14/tires

Rears -
http://www.bfgoodrichtires.com/tire-selector/size/PMetric/235/60/15/tires

Anyone have any thoughts?

Those didn't make the list because they're not a matching set.

But yeah, you can run a non-matching set without issue or even noticing much of a difference when driving vs running a matching set - many owners have/are.

The biggest difference in running a non-matching set vs a matching set is experienced in less than optimal driving conditions - gravel roads, wet roads, snow covered roads, etc.

[NightFlyer]

Your pictures are broken for me...can you please re-add them? How do they feel on your DeLorean?

OK, I've re-uploaded the pics - hopefully that works!

223802238122379

I've got about 3,500 miles on the car since putting the Vredesteins on. I've been meaning to do a full review with pics, but just haven't gotten around to it yet. I'll try to have that done by the end of next weekend.

In the meantime, I can honestly say that these are beyond a doubt the BEST option for a matching set currently available for our cars. No surprise really, as the Giugiaro Design Sportrac 5's are currently one of the top rated tires over in Europe. They feel light and responsive, yet still manage to be very assuring and grippy. They're also VERY smooth and VERY quiet (one of the quietest tires I've ever owned on any vehicle). Really, they're a perfect grand touring (GT) tire. And thus far, the tread appears to have held up remarkable well - in fact, I can't visually notice any wear. They're also a conversation point, as I've received several questions about the tires alone at every car show I've taken my D to so far this year - I guess I should have expected that with a designer tire :biggrin:

If you want a matched set, IMHO this is the only choice worth considering. When I ordered/imported my set through Vredestein corporate, they told me that they were keeping a small stash (in D sizes - of which the fronts aren't normally imported until I bugged the hell out of them to get my set) in their east coast warehouse specifically for other D owners. They can be ordered with free shipping anywhere in the US through the Tire Factory / Tires by Web, by telephone:

http://www.tirefactory.net/
http://www.tiresbyweb.com/

[Bitsyncmaster]

I was thinking not to get all season tires so they would run quite. I don't use my car in the snow. Does this limit the tire choices?

[DMCMW Dave]

I was thinking not to get all season tires so they would run quite. I don't use my car in the snow. Does this limit the tire choices?

Yes, to a choice of close to zero to choose from. Other than Nightflyer's.

[NightFlyer]

I was thinking not to get all season tires so they would run quite. I don't use my car in the snow. Does this limit the tire choices?

First off, there aren't any matching set summer tires made in the sizes our stock/OEM wheels require, even when going up/down a size on the front/rear - except the Vredesteins. So, if you want a matching set, your only other option is one of the various types of all-seasons currently manufactured, unfortunately.

Let me repeat that just so everyone is clear on that - the Vredestein Sportrac 5 is a true SUMMER tire.

If you're looking for quiet, then the Vredestein's are your best choice IMHO. Once broken in, they are extremely quiet - even on crappy/uneven surfaces. I was actually pleasantly surprised by just how quiet they are, as I wasn't expecting them to be as good as they are. Plus they look great!

http://www.vredestein.com/car-tyres/summer/sportrac-5/info/

You'll notice that the Sportrac 5's were specifically engineered/designed to be "an extremely quiet and comfortable tyre." Quiet is the first and primary selling point of the tire by the manufacturer - and trust me, they nailed it!

[NightFlyer]

http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/Vredestein/Sportrac-5.htm

You'll notice in many of the reviews that many owners were very surprised at just how quiet they are.

If you can speak Polish, there's also a nifty video review:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODEfwrnVNmg

[chrisp]

Hi all!

One of the best tires -complete set - are the ContiPremiumContact2 tire. Vredestein have good winter tires but summer tires are ...

On the other side, in the US and a DeLorean, a high performance tire are not important ;-)

Good night!
Christian

[DavidProehl]

Hi all!

One of the best tires -complete set - are the ContiPremiumContact2 tire. Vredestein have good winter tires but summer tires are ...

On the other side, in the US and a DeLorean, a high performance tire are not important ;-)

Good night!
Christian

I'm not seeing 235/60/15 Continental tires, not even in 225s. They only go down to 16 inch diameter. Am I missing something?

Continental Tire Search: http://tireselector.conti-online.com/size.php

[chrisp]

Both tires, Conti and Vredestein are only available as 225 60 R15. Only Pirelli offers a 235 tire with correct size. But the P600 are only available for the rear and not for the front. A complete set with original dimensions from one manufacturer are not available. No discussion about SUV tires please.

Christian

[chrisp]

Please read:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continental_AG

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vredestein

Good night!
Christian

[DavidProehl]

Both tires, Conti and Vredestein are only available as 225 60 R15. Only Pirelli offers a 235 tire with correct size. But the P600 are only available for the rear and not for the front. A complete set with original dimensions from one manufacturer are not available. No discussion about SUV tires please.

Christian

Thanks for the clarification!

[NightFlyer]

It would appear that the Continental ContiPremiumContact2, a true summer tire, are indeed offered in a 60 profile with a 195 14" front with an H speed rating and a 225 15" rear with either a V or W speed rating. I'd also like to note that this entire tire line from Continental is now made in either the Czech Republic or Malaysia.

Continental ContiPremiumContact2 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V or W (Continental – Czech Republic/Malaysia)

http://www.continental-tires.com/www/tires_de_en/themes/car-tires/summer-tires/contipremiumcontact-2/contipremiumcontact-2.html?page=4

They are not offered for retail sale in the US by Continental, and would need to be imported (probably via a retailer, as Continental corporate isn't too good about responding to customer inquiries).

Per the uniform EU tire rating guidelines, the Continentals scored the following:

Rolling Resistance (efficiency): Grade E (bad)
Wet Traction: Grade B (good)
Noise: 71dB

The Vredesteins scored the following:

Rolling Resistance (efficiency): Grade C (pretty good / not bad)
Wet Traction: Grade B (good)
Noise: 71dB

Clearly, the Vredesteins will result in MUCH better fuel economy.

The same review site that gives the Vredesteins a near perfect 98% 'buy again' rating gives the Continentals a mere 63% 'buy again' rating.

http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/Continental/Premium-Contact-2.htm

The sentiments expressed about the ContiPremiumContact2 on review sites appear to mirror that of other lines of Continental tyres - when they were made in Germany, they were good, but as soon as they started outsourcing to the Czech Republic and Asia (Malaysia), the quality greatly suffered.

On a personal note, I had a set of Continental ContiTouringContacts that came stock/OEM on my '08 Chrysler 300C Heritage. They were absolute JUNK and by far the worst tire I've ever had the displeasure of having to experience. In fact, they were so bad that there was a class action lawsuit over them and Continental actually had to pay me and other litigants in the class $360/each as a part of the settlement.

http://www.topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/lawsuit-news/715-continental-tire-class-action-settlement

I appreciate the info and I'll be sure to the add them to the list, but I cannot in good conscience recommend the Continentals, and especially not over the Vredestein Giugiaro Design Sportrac 5's.

Conclusion: IMHO the Vredestein Giugiaro Design Sportrac 5's are the BEST matched set tires currently available for DeLorean owners.

[chrisp]

Hi NightFlyer,

i agree and are positive surprised!

Tire tests in German motorpress publications attests that the Vredestein Sportrac 5 are an exellent tire.
I would say this tire are one of the best solutions for our cars.

Thanks for posting!

Christian

[NightFlyer]

Hi NightFlyer,

i agree and are positive surprised!

Tire tests in German motorpress publications attests that the Vredestein Sportrac 5 are an exellent tire.
I would say this tire are one of the best solutions for our cars.

Thanks for posting!

Christian

Thank you for posting and informing us about the Continentals - completeness was the goal with the list.

Too bad Continental no longer makes that tire in Germany, as had they, it would have given the Vredesteins a run for the money. There have been too many complaints of quality problems though ever since they moved production to the Czech Republic and Malaysia.

Even though Vredestein is owned by Apollo of India, Apollo made the decision to keep Vredestein a wholly independent subsidiary. At this time, all Vredestein automotive tyres are manufactured in Enschede, The Netherlands.

[Rich]

There have been some posts already about these two tire models, reputed to be decent options "matched set" options at almost-OEM sizes for a D.

For those who want to look at the easy-to-read CE labels and a comparo have a look at these shots:

24033 24034 24035

The CE labels are for random sizes. Noting that the DeLorean "almost-matched sizes" those tires both come in are 195/60-14 and 225/60-15 per The List in this thread. The CE labels pictured are for random sizes representing all sizes.

Vredestein, now owned by Apollo, may be a new name to some of us. I ran a set on an '80 Ford Fiesta S for a few years. It was no sports car at the time but I drove it pretty hard and those Vreds were great. In my book that keeps it on a par with any other "heritage" brand name on the Matched Set list.

[Rich]

...I contacted Vredestein directly to see if we could get the 225/60R15 and 195/60R14 sizes of the Sportrac 5 sooner than that. I wasn't actually expecting a response from corporate, however, and to my utter surprise, they responded right away and are making sure that the Sportrac 5's in our [225 and 195] sizes are being loaded onto the next US bound container!

The corporate rep actually appreciated the Giugiaro connection between our cars and their tyres, and also informed me that they were being hassled by S1-S3 Lotus Esprit owners here in the states for a proper 235/60R15 tire. Although there was no commitment, they may look into producing a 235/60R15 in the near future, so that we'll once again have a matching set option in the OEM sizes! How great would that be, in that not only would we actually have a matching set in the OEM sizes.....

DMC vendors should definitely consider supporting Vredestein as their official tire provider.

Thanks for this. Missed this earlier posting. Edited it a bit with an eye toward starting something.

Would love it if Vredestein would step up and offer 235/60-15's.

Who do we need to convince at Apollo Vredestein North America and at Apollo Vredestein BV in NL? Do you have a name or contact info you can share?

Might as well start with the person who has been collecting the DeLorean and Lotus requests there.

Just waiting and hoping silently for some mfgr besides Cooper to offer matched OEM sets for D's hasn't been working....

[Bill6298]

I've read through all of the tire threads but didn't want to start a new one. I didn't realize there are no longer matched sets in the original size tires. I have Yokohama tires in the right size, pretty good shape, but they are 12+ years old.

Is there any consensus on original size tires that don't match but have fairly close tread patterns? I'm less concerned with looks and more concerned about getting a quality tire with the best possible ride.

[eagle-co94]

I'd be scared to ride on anything with 12 year old tires. I don't think tire shops can legally sell anything over 5-7 years old.

[Bill6298]

My car isn't drivable quite yet. I'm looking to replace them and was surprised I can't buy a matching set of the OE size anymore. My preference is not to change sizes but that leaves the difficult job of finding non-matching tires that are close enough. I think I'm in the minority based on reading the threads. It seems most folks have just dropped down to 225 in the rear.

[eagle-co94]

Bill I'd love to get the proper sized tires but the closest I think is the Cooper Cobra for the rear (left) and the Cooper CS4 Touring for the front (right):
2403924040

The CS4's don't have white letters and they are two different tires with different treadwear ratings and different temperature ratings and I'm not comfortable with that. I'd be willing to to as high as a 255 tire in the back if that meant matching tires, but I'm at 275's with matching tires and that's just crazy. The 275's came on the car...I'd never buy them in that size.

[Bill6298]

Bill I'd love to get the proper sized tires but the closest I think is the Cooper Cobra for the rear (left) and the Cooper CS4 Touring for the front (right):
2403924040

The CS4's don't have white letters and they are two different tires with different treadwear ratings and different temperature ratings and I'm not comfortable with that. I'd be willing to to as high as a 255 tire in the back if that meant matching tires, but I'm at 275's with matching tires and that's just crazy. The 275's came on the car...I'd never buy them in that size.

So, I guess I need to research OE-sized non-matching tires and start by eliminating different speed, treadwear, and temperature ratings. Of course, I may just have to give up and deal with non OE sizes.

[NightFlyer]

As there seems to be a lot of tire interest recently, I thought I'd post the current/updated list:

Matching Sets – Front 195/60R14 (OEM) / Rear 225/60R15:

Apollo Acelere - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Apollo – India)
Continental ContiPremiumContact2 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V or W (Continental – Czech Republic/Malaysia)
Cooper CS4 Touring – Load 86/96 Speed: H (Cooper – USA)
Cordovan Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Evergreen EH23 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (??? – China)
Falken Sincera Touring SN211 - Load: 82/95 Speed: T (Sumitomo - Thailand)
Falken ZIEX ZE-912 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Sumitomo – Thailand)
Federal SS657 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Federal - Taiwan)
Fuzion Touring - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Bridgestone – China/USA)
Geostar S6065 - Load: 85/96 Speed: H (Nankang – Taiwan)
GoodRide H550A - Load: 86/98 Speed: H (Hangzhou Zhonghce – China)
Hankook Optimo H418 - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Hankook – South Korea)
Hero Atlanta AR01 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Federal – Taiwan)
Hero HR668 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Federal – Taiwan)
JINYU YH12 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (??? – China)
Kenda Komet Plus KR23 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kenda – Taiwan)
Kenda Komet KR02 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kenda – Taiwan)
Kumho Solus KR21 - Load: 85/95 Speed: T (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Power Racer II - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Solus KR21 - Load: 85/95 Speed: T (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Matrac MH11 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Maxxis MA-P1 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Chen Shin – Taiwan)
Multi-Mile Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Nankang XR611 Toursport - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Nankang – Taiwan)
Nexen CP641 - Load:86/96 Speed: H (Nexen – South Korea)
Nexen N5000 Radial - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Nexen – South Korea)
Ohtsu FP7000 - Load:86/96 Speed: H (Sumitomo – Indonesia)
Primewell PS830/850 - Load: 86/97 Speed: H (Giti – China)
Sigma Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Sonar SX-608 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Nankang – Taiwan)
Sunny SN880 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (South China – China)
Toyo Extensa A/S - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Toyo – China/USA/Japan)
Vanderbilt Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Vredestein Sportrac 5 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V DESIGNED BY GIUGIARO (Apollo – Netherlands)
Wanli S-1023 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (South China – China)
West Lake H550A - Load: 86/98 Speed: H (Hangzhou Zhonghce – China)
Zeetex ZT102 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (ZAFCO Dubai – India/China/Indonesia)

Matching Sets – Front 185/60R14 / Rear 235/60R15 (OEM):

Cooper Cobra Radial G/T (Rear RWL) - Load: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)
Mastercraft Avenger G/T (Rear RWL) - Load: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)
Hercules H/P 4000 (Rear RWL) - Load: Speed: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)

[eagle-co94]

Looks like you've got a typo in your matched set tire sizes.

[NightFlyer]

Looks like you've got a typo in your matched set tire sizes.

Caught it before you hit the submit button - thanks though :thumbup2:

[Rich]

In other DeLorean tire news....

As noted elsewhere in the thread, Apollo Tyre out of India bought Vredestein in The Netherlands some time back. Vredestein makes the Sportrac 5 ("Guigiaro-designed") that's on the list.

Also on the list of D tires is Cooper Tire (Cobra/Avenger/Mastercraft/Hercules), a USA mfgr.

If this deal goes through then Cooper and Vredestein will be siblings in the Apollo family:

LINK: http://www.apollovredestein.com/nieuws/460/apollo-tyres-to-acquire-cooper-tire-rubber-company (http://www.apollovredestein.com/nieuws/460/apollo-tyres-to-acquire-cooper-tire-rubber-company)

Not sure what, if any, effect it would have on availability of the tires we need for D's. It's not a done deal yet - has hit some legal snag.


This strategic combination will bring together two companies with highly complementary brands, geographic presence, and technological expertise to create a global leader in tire manufacturing and distribution. Apollo, founded in 1972, has an international reputation for high performance tires across a portfolio of well-known premium and mid-tier brands, including the flagship Apollo brand and Vredestein. Cooper, the 11th-largest tire company in the world by revenue, was founded in 1914 and today supplies premium and mid-tier tires worldwide through renowned brands such as Cooper, Mastercraft, Starfire, Chengshan, Roadmaster and Avon.

The combined company will be the seventh-largest tire company in the world.....

[eagle-co94]

Caught it before you hit the submit button - thanks though :thumbup2:

You caught the first one so I edited my post...didn't catch the 2nd one! :neener:

[NightFlyer]

Where's the second one?:dunno:

[eagle-co94]

Way at the bottom...185/60 14...unless that's a size used...but I've never heard of going narrower up front.

[NightFlyer]

Way at the bottom...185/60 14...unless that's a size used...but I've never heard of going narrower up front.

No - that's correct. For those wanting a stock 235/60R15 in the rear, in order to still get a matching set, you have to drop down to 185/60R14 on the front.

I actually screwed up the top numbers starting on page 2 of this thread and you're the first person, other than myself, that caught that error - I still have no idea how I screwed up a cut and paste from the first posting of the list to subsequent postings with additions/updates... :umm:

[eagle-co94]

Pretty easy with typing the numbers over and over again. Where can you find those 185's? I did a quick search and didn't come up with actual matching tires.

[NightFlyer]

Pretty easy with typing the numbers over and over again. Where can you find those 185's? I did a quick search and didn't come up with actual matching tires.

http://us.coopertire.com/Tires/Passenger/COBRA-RADIAL-G-T.aspx#tire-specs
http://mastercrafttires.com/Tires/Passenger/Avenger-GT.aspx
http://www.herculestire.com/tire-gallery/passenger-and-light-truck/performance-touring/hp-4000/

Essentially, these are all the same tire with merely different brand names. The 185/60R14s have a traditional BSW, while the matching 235/60R15s have a RWL. Tread patterns are the same, but for a uniform look, you'd have to mount the rears with the RWL facing in instead of out, if you cared about that.

Sears carries the Cooper Cobra variant 185/60R14 for $117.96/ea. Matching 235/60R15s are $121.96/ea.

http://www.sears.com/cooper-cobra-radial-gt-p185-60r14-82t-bw-all/p-09534714000P
http://www.sears.com/cooper-cobra-radial-gt-p235-60r15-98t-rwl-all/p-09534730000P

Summit Racing carries the MasterCraft variant 185/60R14 for $99.97/ea. Matching 235/60R15s are $108.97/ea.

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/mft-39720/overview/
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/mft-39712/overview/

Group Buy Tires carries the Hercules variant 185/60r14 for $88.84/ea. Matching 235/60R15s are $104.05/ea.

http://www.groupbuytires.com/185-60R14-HERCULES-4000-82T/dp/B008EL81B2?field_availability=-1&field_browse=5536573011&id=185+60R14+HERCULES+4000+82T&ie=UTF8&refinementHistory=brandtextbin%2Csubjectbin%2Cpric e&searchNodeID=5536573011&searchPage=1&searchRank=salesrank&searchSize=12#.UrkjNvuyTXQ
http://www.groupbuytires.com/235-60R15-HERCULES-4000-98T/dp/B008EL7YOM?field_availability=-1&field_browse=5536573011&id=235+60R15+HERCULES+4000+98T&ie=UTF8&refinementHistory=brandtextbin%2Csubjectbin%2Cpric e&searchNodeID=5536573011&searchPage=1&searchRank=salesrank&searchSize=12#.UrkjVvuyTXQ

These were just the first results that a Google search produced, so be sure to shop around for the best prices available if you decide to go this route :smile:

[NightFlyer]

Smaller in the front, or smaller in the rear - your choice for a matching set, although there are far more options available by going smaller in the rear.

I didn't look into going larger on either the front or the rear, as rubbing issues were a concern, especially on the front (which will rub by merely going to the next size up). I also don't think that going larger on either the front or the rear helps to open up any additional options when trying to maintain a matching set.

[Bill6298]

OK, I've re-uploaded the pics - hopefully that works!

223802238122379

I've got about 3,500 miles on the car since putting the Vredesteins on. I've been meaning to do a full review with pics, but just haven't gotten around to it yet. I'll try to have that done by the end of next weekend.

In the meantime, I can honestly say that these are beyond a doubt the BEST option for a matching set currently available for our cars. No surprise really, as the Giugiaro Design Sportrac 5's are currently one of the top rated tires over in Europe. They feel light and responsive, yet still manage to be very assuring and grippy. They're also VERY smooth and VERY quiet (one of the quietest tires I've ever owned on any vehicle). Really, they're a perfect grand touring (GT) tire. And thus far, the tread appears to have held up remarkable well - in fact, I can't visually notice any wear. They're also a conversation point, as I've received several questions about the tires alone at every car show I've taken my D to so far this year - I guess I should have expected that with a designer tire :biggrin:

If you want a matched set, IMHO this is the only choice worth considering. When I ordered/imported my set through Vredestein corporate, they told me that they were keeping a small stash (in D sizes - of which the fronts aren't normally imported until I bugged the hell out of them to get my set) in their east coast warehouse specifically for other D owners. They can be ordered with free shipping anywhere in the US through the Tire Factory / Tires by Web, by telephone:

http://www.tirefactory.net/
http://www.tiresbyweb.com/

Does your endorsement of these still stand? Do you notice any handling difference compared to the OE size?

My search for a non-matching OE size did not turn up much. Mismatched BF Goodrich or one of the mismatched Cooper variants (including Mickey Thompson Sportsman S/T Radial, which I had no idea was Cooper). Even the Pirelli P600s are in limited production assuming I wanted a different brand with similar tread for the front.

It's a damn shame Coker Tire won't reproduce the front OE size BF Goodrich Radial T/As. I would buy the Yokohama AVS again if they made it. Maybe Vredestein will eventually produce a 235/60-15. Oh well...

[NightFlyer]

Does your endorsement of these still stand? Do you notice any handling difference compared to the OE size?

My search for a non-matching OE size did not turn up much. Mismatched BF Goodrich or one of the mismatched Cooper variants (including Mickey Thompson Sportsman S/T Radial, which I had no idea was Cooper). Even the Pirelli P600s are in limited production assuming I wanted a different brand with similar tread for the front.

It's a damn shame Coker Tire won't reproduce the front OE size BF Goodrich Radial T/As. I would buy the Yokohama AVS again if they made it. Maybe Vredestein will eventually produce a 235/60-15. Oh well...

Yes, my endorsement of the Giugiaro Design Vredestein Sportrac 5 still stands.

I honestly don't notice any negative handling difference compared to running a 235 in the rear, however, I also don't push my car very hard. While the rear end definitely feels noticeably lighter, the tires also feel grippier when compared to the 32 year old NCTs that I was previously running, thus making up for any traction issues that would otherwise be experienced in cornering situations. One thing I do notice with the Vredesteins is that they're beyond a doubt the quietest tires that I've had on any car. They're also very responsive, despite being smooth and comfortable. And they didn't slip once in heavy rain on me. IMHO, they're a perfect grand touring true summer tire, while also providing some sporty benefits/characteristics without being harsh. And they look great too - I didn't get a chance to post my complete review/write-up yet or take any good pics, but here's a video of me driving on them at Woodward this year:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ddxVpcWoao

If you're steadfast in wanting a 235 on the rear though, you can always drop a size on the front, to 185, and get a matching set of the Coopers/MasterCraft/Hercules. They're not the best tires in the world, but adequate. No where near as refined or as grippy as the Vredesteins, but they would give you more of an 'old-school' style ride/feel if that's what you're looking for. If you do go this route, try to find the made in USA variants as opposed to the Mexican made variants.

Best of luck in making your decision :smile:

[Henrik]

So, long story short: A matched set of stock dimension tires i.e. 195/60/14 and 235/60/15 does not exist. Correct?

[DMCMW Dave]

So, long story short: A matched set of stock dimension tires i.e. 195/60/14 and 235/60/15 does not exist. Correct?

I believe I actually ran across then in Primewell Brand, but they are a low-end Chinese tire sold by Firestone. VERY cheap, fronts are under $50.

I've heard bad things about them though.

[NightFlyer]

So, long story short: A matched set of stock dimension tires i.e. 195/60/14 and 235/60/15 does not exist. Correct?

Correct - not in a matched set. At least none that I'm presently aware of.


I believe I actually ran across then in Primewell Brand, but they are a low-end Chinese tire sold by Firestone. VERY cheap, fronts are under $50.

I've heard bad things about them though.

The only Primewells that I'm aware of in 235/60R15 are in their PS860 series, which they describe as being a Sport/Performance tire with all coming only in RWL. However, an accompanying 194/60R14 is not available in that series.

http://www.primewelltires.com/PS860 (sizing info under the 'Detailed Tire Specifications' tab)

The only way to run a matching set of Primewells is go with the PS830/PS850 series, which they describe as being a everyday passenger car tire, available only in BSW, and by running a 225/60R15 on the rear.

http://www.primewelltires.com/PS830-PS850 (sizing info under the 'Detailed Tire Specifications' tab)

Steve Rice was running a fairly new / low mileage set of these tires on his car when the tread of one of the rear tires completely separated from the sidewall. He immediately proceeded to replace the Primewells with a set of house brand Futuras (made by Cooper in USA) from Pepboys, again running a 225 in the rear.

[DMCMW Dave]

Steve Rice was running a fairly new / low mileage set of these tires on his car when the tread of one of the rear tires completely separated from the sidewall. He immediately proceeded to replace the Primewells with a set of house brand Futuras (made by Cooper in USA) from Pepboys, again running a 225 in the rear.

I'd heard that story, hence my caution, in addition to a general distrust of Chinese tires.

I'm not really a fan of the Coopers either - hard to balance, often not round, and noisy. So apparently it's possible to make crappy tires in the US as well.

[Mark D]

...I'm not really a fan of the Coopers either - hard to balance, often not round, and noisy. So apparently it's possible to make crappy tires in the US as well.

But they've got snakes on the sidewalls Dave, SNAKES!! :cool:

[NightFlyer]

I'd heard that story, hence my caution, in addition to a general distrust of Chinese tires.

I'm not really a fan of the Coopers either - hard to balance, often not round, and noisy. So apparently it's possible to make crappy tires in the US as well.

I've heard that the CS4 Touring, which is exclusively made in the USA, balanced easily, often times requiring no weights, but have no personal experience with this tire.

Cooper also makes several house brand exclusive models, such as Steve's new Futuras. The problem with house brand exclusives is that they tend to be hit-or-miss in terms of availability and/or are limited regionally, which is why I didn't cover any of these brands on the list.

As for the Cobras and their Mastercraft and Hercules variants, they were pretty decent (but not great) when made in the USA, however, within the last couple years, production of those lines have shifted primarily to Mexico and even China, where quality has taken a big hit. If looking at the Cobras/Mastercraft/Hercules, I strongly advise to only consider the made in USA variants, otherwise they're best avoided for the reasons stated by Dave S.

[DMCVegas]

Is there anyone out there that makes a matching set of 195/60/R14 & 245/60/R15?

[NightFlyer]

Is there anyone out there that makes a matching set of 195/60/R14 & 245/60/R15?

None that I've been able to find, unfortunately...

[eagle-co94]

Okay, this is what I've got so far:

National XT Renegade

70615 P195/60R14 85T BW 440AB 19.2 6.0 23.3 7.6 6.4 11/32
70330 P235/60R15 98T RWL 440AB 26.0 7.0 26.1 9.2 7.6 11/32

I used their dealer locator and they only show "Callaghan Tire" as the only dealer within 250 miles of me (6 different locations) that sell their tires. The person on the phone hadn't heard of them but took my number and the company's number and is currently researching the tires and will call me back. Hopefully he can tell me some good news. I also called a shop in the ATL area and he's looking into it as well. One vendor listed on the website said they haven't been a distributor for them in several years though.:huh:

I put in a call to the company to find out some more info (like where they're made) but haven't gotten a reply to my voicemail message yet.

The .pdf on their website was updated in June of 2011 though, so it's possible this is another wild goose chase.:frown:

[NightFlyer]

I put in a call to the company to find out some more info (like where they're made) but haven't gotten a reply to my voicemail message yet.

The .pdf on their website was updated in June of 2011 though, so it's possible this is another wild goose chase.:frown:

I looked into tires by both National and Del-Nat (Delta-National) when doing my research. The XT Renegade are made by Cooper in either USA/Mexico/China (probably in either USA or Mexico, as they're an older iteration). Essentially, they're merely re-branded Cooper Cobra Radial G/T, just like the Mastercraft Avenger G/T and Hercules H/P 4000. The P195/60R14 has been discontinued for as long as the equivalent Cooper/Mastercraft/Hercules has been discontinued. And from what I've been able to find, I don't believe that the line under the 'National XT Renegade' branding continued after the discontinuation of the P195/60R14 by Cooper across all the various brandings in 2011, as I've been unable to find a P185/60R14 carrying the 'National XT Renegade' branding, despite the size currently being offered under the Cooper/Mastercraft/Hercules brandings.

The only way you'd find a set is if they've been sitting in a warehouse somewhere for the last 4+ years. When I called around attempting to locate a NOS set under the Mastercraft branding, I was unsuccessful.

Sorry.

[eagle-co94]

I'm not surprised the company hasn't called back since they can't seem to update their own website. I did get a call back from ATL and after many phone calls he said that they were discontinued years ago. I was wondering if someone might have a pair sitting somewhere, but for now I think I'm going to order up a set of the OHTSU's to try out. For $233.09 to my door it won't hurt to try them out.

[papanoel]

Not that I'm in the market for new tires but anything wrong with these RWL BF Goodrich tires for the rear?
Didn't see them on the list.

I tried checking out just to see if it would say out of stock but it doesn't. But I didn't try to actually buy them.

And its got recent reviews.

BFGoodrich Radial T/A E4
P235/60R15 98S RWL
http://www.discounttiredirect.com/direct/findTireDetail.do?pc=38716&ar=60&rd=15&cs=235

[yellowmxwheels23]

Recently got a set of Kuhmo's from Discount that they special ordered. Paid $200 after a rebate they had going.

[jackb]

I ordered a set of Falken 512's from Discount Tire a few weeks ago- they said both size 195 and 225 were available. They had both front tires and one rear tire locally, they had to order the second rear.
A week later they called me and said they were unable to get the one rear 512, but they would upgrade it for free to the 912 because I had already paid for it and because of the inconvenience. I explained how I wanted a matching set, and a few days later, long story short, they gave me all 4 tires as 912's for the price I paid for the 512's.

I drove a few hundred miles in the rain last weekend with them, and I like the 912's very much. Great traction, quiet, and zero issues in the rain.

I've been using Falken tires for a few years now on multiple vehicles. Right now Falkens are on my Civic (on my second set in a row), my jeep, and now the Delorean. I think they are a very good tire at an outstanding price considering their quality.

[TTait]

Not that I'm in the market for new tires but anything wrong with these RWL BF Goodrich tires for the rear?
Didn't see them on the list.

I tried checking out just to see if it would say out of stock but it doesn't. But I didn't try to actually buy them.

And its got recent reviews.

BFGoodrich Radial T/A E4
P235/60R15 98S RWL
http://www.discounttiredirect.com/direct/findTireDetail.do?pc=38716&ar=60&rd=15&cs=235

I've been running these for years on both cars, very happy. The fronts were available too in a slightly different tread.

[papanoel]

I've been running these for years on both cars, very happy. The fronts were available too in a slightly different tread.

Do you have the RWL facing outward on the rears?

[NightFlyer]

Didn't see them on the list.

The reason that they weren't included on the list is that they don't have an exact match 195 or 185 60 profile 14" ID for the front. The list was limited strictly to matching sets, which currently requires you to run a 10mm smaller width on either the front or the rear.

[NightFlyer]

Recently got a set of Kuhmo's from Discount that they special ordered. Paid $200 after a rebate they had going.

Probably the Kumho Solus KR21, made in China or South Korea.

[NightFlyer]

I ordered a set of Falken 512's from Discount Tire a few weeks ago- they said both size 195 and 225 were available. They had both front tires and one rear tire locally, they had to order the second rear.
A week later they called me and said they were unable to get the one rear 512, but they would upgrade it for free to the 912 because I had already paid for it and because of the inconvenience. I explained how I wanted a matching set, and a few days later, long story short, they gave me all 4 tires as 912's for the price I paid for the 512's.

I drove a few hundred miles in the rain last weekend with them, and I like the 912's very much. Great traction, quiet, and zero issues in the rain.

I've been using Falken tires for a few years now on multiple vehicles. Right now Falkens are on my Civic (on my second set in a row), my jeep, and now the Delorean. I think they are a very good tire at an outstanding price considering their quality.

The Ziex ZE-912 is a very nice tire. The only thing I personally don't like about it is that it's made in Thailand.

[eagle-co94]

Just an FYI, I just priced out a set of the Cooper S4 Touring tires on DiscountTireDirect.com at $311 shipped... and Cooper currently has a $60 rebate on a set of 4 CS4's.
http://coopertirerebates.com/App_Themes/CooperTireRebates/pdf/cooper-tire-rebate-form.pdf

Also, if you buy from their ebay store, DTD has a $100 off $400 in tires special if you need anything for another car.
http://stores.ebay.com/Discount-Tire-Direct

[wiresman]

Everytime I pick a tire setup to go with I can't get them.:mad2: I won't be driving often , but when I do its usually to car shows etc and I want to at least have the sidewall name match. I was thinking about getting the Falken Ziex 912's 195 fnt, 225 r but I also haven't seen many pics of that rear size and I may lower front in future. I just think the stock rear size fills the fender well and with a lowered front end a 185 prob wouldn't look bad. Guess I would just like to see more before and after pics with smaller rears and or smaller fronts. If money was no object I would consider replacing the wheels entirely.:cool1:

[pezzonovante88]

Everytime I pick a tire setup to go with I can't get them.:mad2: I won't be driving often , but when I do its usually to car shows etc and I want to at least have the sidewall name match. I was thinking about getting the Falken Ziex 912's 195 fnt, 225 r but I also haven't seen many pics of that rear size and I may lower front in future. I just think the stock rear size fills the fender well and with a lowered front end a 185 prob wouldn't look bad. Guess I would just like to see more before and after pics with smaller rears and or smaller fronts. If money was no object I would consider replacing the wheels entirely.:cool1:

How about Cooper Cobra 235 (rear) and Cooper CS4 Touring 195 (front)? Same brand at least.

[NightFlyer]

Everytime I pick a tire setup to go with I can't get them.:mad2: I won't be driving often , but when I do its usually to car shows etc and I want to at least have the sidewall name match. I was thinking about getting the Falken Ziex 912's 195 fnt, 225 r but I also haven't seen many pics of that rear size and I may lower front in future. I just think the stock rear size fills the fender well and with a lowered front end a 185 prob wouldn't look bad. Guess I would just like to see more before and after pics with smaller rears and or smaller fronts. If money was no object I would consider replacing the wheels entirely.:cool1:

Profile of the 235 vs 225 is exactly the same - 60mm (assuming that you're wanting a 60 profile tire). Thus, the fill between the tire and fender lip is going to be the same between the two tires. The only difference is going to be with the width of the tire - the 225 is 10mm skinnier than the 235.

[eagle-co94]

I just got my Cooper CS4's about 2 months ago and they were in stock at Discount Tire. Remember if you go to 185's up front it will affect your speedometer. I've gone to 225's in the back twice and prefer that over any other option.

[Michael]

Profile of the 235 vs 225 is exactly the same - 60mm (assuming that you're wanting a 60 profile tire). Thus, the fill between the tire and fender lip is going to be the same between the two tires. The only difference is going to be with the width of the tire - the 225 is 10mm skinnier than the 235.

I was under the impression that the middle number denotes the percentage of the width. For example it would be 60% of 225mm vs. 60% of 235mm. Granted it's an insignificant amount.

[eagle-co94]

You are correct. The middle number is the aspect ratio which is the percentage of the tread width that the sidewall is. 6mm isn't a whole lot, but it's visible. It's not enough to really bother me or lots of other people...especially since there aren't a lot of tire options.

[BigBenb84]

I just ordered these off TireRack.com. I wanted stock sizes cause I don't like the look of 225s on the rear, which I can spot a D wearing from 50 feet away. It's the less bulgy side wall. I at least kept it in the same brand. They will be delivered tomorrow and I'll have them put on this weekend and post pics of them on. I'm used to mixmatch currently running Sonar front, Yokohama rear both 11yrs old from prev owner. Getting these for the Dayton trip!!

195/60R14
BFGoodrich g-Force Super Sport A/S
https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=BFGoodrich&tireModel=g-Force+Super+Sport+A%2FS+%28H-+or+V-Speed+Rated%29&partnum=96HR4GFAS&vehicleSearch=false&fromCompare1=yes
27052

235/60R15
BFGoorich Radial T/A
https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=BFGoodrich&tireModel=Radial+T%2FA&partnum=36SR5RADTARWL2V2&vehicleSearch=false&fromCompare1=yes
27053

[NightFlyer]

I was under the impression that the middle number denotes the percentage of the width. For example it would be 60% of 225mm vs. 60% of 235mm. Granted it's an insignificant amount.


You are correct. The middle number is the aspect ratio which is the percentage of the tread width that the sidewall is. 6mm isn't a whole lot, but it's visible. It's not enough to really bother me or lots of other people...especially since there aren't a lot of tire options.

Oops - my bad! :mallet:

I don't know what I was thinking when I posted that :screwy:

Yes, you guys are 100% correct.

[papanoel]

I just ordered these off TireRack.com. I wanted stock sizes cause I don't like the look of 225s on the rear, which I can spot a D wearing from 50 feet away. It's the less bulgy side wall. I at least kept it in the same brand. They will be delivered tomorrow and I'll have them put on this weekend and post pics of them on. I'm used to mixmatch currently running Sonar front, Yokohama rear both 11yrs old from prev owner. Getting these for the Dayton trip!!

195/60R14
BFGoodrich g-Force Super Sport A/S
https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=BFGoodrich&tireModel=g-Force+Super+Sport+A%2FS+%28H-+or+V-Speed+Rated%29&partnum=96HR4GFAS&vehicleSearch=false&fromCompare1=yes
27052

235/60R15
BFGoorich Radial T/A
https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=BFGoodrich&tireModel=Radial+T%2FA&partnum=36SR5RADTARWL2V2&vehicleSearch=false&fromCompare1=yes
27053


Are you going to put the RWL on the rear facing out? I'm considering doing this with mine.

[gulwng3]

Everytime I pick a tire setup to go with I can't get them.:mad2: I won't be driving often , but when I do its usually to car shows etc and I want to at least have the sidewall name match. I was thinking about getting the Falken Ziex 912's 195 fnt, 225 r but I also haven't seen many pics of that rear size and I may lower front in future. I just think the stock rear size fills the fender well and with a lowered front end a 185 prob wouldn't look bad. Guess I would just like to see more before and after pics with smaller rears and or smaller fronts. If money was no object I would consider replacing the wheels entirely.:cool1:

Here's a horribly out-of-focus pic of my new Falken Ziex 912's that are 225's in the back. They look significantly narrower than my original NCT 235's, but measure only 1/2" narrower. It must be an illusion and have something to do with the tread pattern (5 tread lines vs. 7). I dunno... but I am disappointed in the 225's and wish I would have went with mismatched 235's in the rear. The wider rears just look so much cooler from behind.27079

Andy

[BigBenb84]

Are you going to put the RWL on the rear facing out? I'm considering doing this with mine.

No, white letters will be in. If the fronts had white letters I'd consider it but not just the rear. My car had the white letters on it's Yokohamas facing out when I got the car but I turned them in. Pic of the Yokohamas with white out:

27085

[Domi]

Too bad, they don't make the front with white letters also :(

[wiresman]

Guess I'll be getting 235 anything then….looked at Cooper Cobras and BF Goodrich so far

[pezzonovante88]

Guess I'll be getting 235 anything then….looked at Cooper Cobras and BF Goodrich so far

I'm really happy with the Coopers.

[jawn101]

I just ordered these off TireRack.com. I wanted stock sizes cause I don't like the look of 225s on the rear, which I can spot a D wearing from 50 feet away. It's the less bulgy side wall. I at least kept it in the same brand. They will be delivered tomorrow and I'll have them put on this weekend and post pics of them on. I'm used to mixmatch currently running Sonar front, Yokohama rear both 11yrs old from prev owner. Getting these for the Dayton trip!!

195/60R14
BFGoodrich g-Force Super Sport A/S
https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=BFGoodrich&tireModel=g-Force+Super+Sport+A%2FS+%28H-+or+V-Speed+Rated%29&partnum=96HR4GFAS&vehicleSearch=false&fromCompare1=yes
27052

235/60R15
BFGoorich Radial T/A
https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=BFGoodrich&tireModel=Radial+T%2FA&partnum=36SR5RADTARWL2V2&vehicleSearch=false&fromCompare1=yes
27053

I was just looking at this same combo. Did you install them yet? How does it look? Feel? Please keep us updated, I think this is going to be a great combo if they look and ride OK. I'd love to get the beefy 235s back on my car and RWL would be the icing on the cake.

[papanoel]

Too bad, they don't make the front with white letters also :(

If you went to 185 in the front. Cooper Cobra Radial GT P185/60R14 82T with RWL

http://www.sears.com/cooper-cobra-radial-gt-tire-p185-60r14-82t/p-09534714000P?prdNo=8&blockNo=8&blockType=L8

Would match the 235 cooper cobras radial gt for the rear with RWL as well.

[NightFlyer]

If you went to 185 in the front. Cooper Cobra Radial GT P185/60R14 82T with RWL

http://www.sears.com/cooper-cobra-radial-gt-tire-p185-60r14-82t/p-09534714000P?prdNo=8&blockNo=8&blockType=L8

Would match the 235 cooper cobras radial gt for the rear with RWL as well.

Actually, the 185/60R14 Cooper Cobra Radial GT is only available in a black wall - hence the 'BW' in the product title on the page that you linked to.

The image used on the page by Sears is generic to the Cobra Radial GT line, and is not showing the 185/60R14 specifically.

Sorry...

[papanoel]

Actually, the 185/60R14 Cooper Cobra Radial GT is only available in a black wall - hence the 'BW' in the product title on the page that you linked to.

The image used on the page by Sears is generic to the Cobra Radial GT line, and is not showing the 185/60R14 specifically.

Sorry...

That Makes sense. I guess the description is inaccurate as well since it says "Distinctive raised white lettering sidewall styling..."

[Mark D]

For a while you could get the correct size 195 Cooper Cobras with RWL, then they switched to backwall only, and then they discontinued that size completely. It never really made much sense that they would change the molds to no longer have RWL and then shortly discontinue a few years later. I guess the bean counters somewhere figured that they weren't selling enough in that size

[StainlessSteelDream]

I recently got a set of Fuzion Touring tires http://www.thefuzionzone.com/Products/ProductDetails.aspx?Product_Name=Fuzion%20Touring in the 195 front, 225 rear "non-stock" size ... they are made in China by Bridgestone.

[eagle-co94]

The Fuzions are apparently made in China and the U.S. I wanted them but Tire Rack wouldn't confirm that they had the U.S. made tires in stock so I assumed I'd get Chinese tires so I went with the American made Coopers.

[wiresman]

I went with the BF Goodrich Radial T/A and BF Goodrich gForce setup with factory sizes. Hopefully work will slow down enough to get them installed soon. I think the current Daytona Radials are over 20 yrs old:dead:

[sdg3205]

If we all hound cooper, bf Goodrich or Coker, you'd think they'd realize there was a market.

I've sent Coker several emails asking if they would consider reproducing our tires. You'd think a niche market tire company would at least respond, but no.

Tires are one of those issues we talk about more than any other. Our cars will always need tires and the more cars continue to come out of hibernation and barns, well, do the math.

[NightFlyer]

If we all hound cooper, bf Goodrich or Coker, you'd think they'd realize there was a market.

I've sent Coker several emails asking if they would consider reproducing our tires. You'd think a niche market tire company would at least respond, but no.

Tires are one of those issues we talk about more than any other. Our cars will always need tires and the more cars continue to come out of hibernation and barns, well, do the math.

Vredestein was interested in making us a matched set in the OEM sizes if there was enough demonstrated demand for it. I previously posted this a few times, but very few owners responded positively about it, and none of the vendors, unfortunately...

Blame it on the apathy of the average/typical owner...

[sdg3205]

Vredestein was interested in making us a matched set in the OEM sizes if there was enough demonstrated demand for it. I previously posted this a few times, but very few owners responded positively about it, and none of the vendors, unfortunately...

Blame it on the apathy of the average/typical owner...

When was this? I can't believe I somehow missed it.

[NightFlyer]

When was this? I can't believe I somehow missed it.

June thru September of last year. I was in direct contact with Vredestein's head of US operations. They said that if the community showed enough interest, and especially if a vendor(s) was willing to team up with them by making Vredestein their exclusive in shop tire and used them on all rebuilt/restored cars, that they'd be willing to produce a Giugiaro designed tire in matching OEM sizes for our cars. They were even aware of and monitored my postings on this and other online forums. I discussed this somewhat with Dave S., but he informed me that he liked to use a local tire vendor and didn't seam all that interested. The several times that I posted here and on Today, I only had a handful of owners, maybe 3-4, express an interest in supporting Vredestein on such a venture.

The fiberglass binnacle guy received far more interest and support from the community than Vredestein did.

I don't know what else I could have done to be honest. The community and vendors just didn't seam interested in getting behind Vredestein, So, I thanked the head of US operations for her time and audience, and haven't been in touch with them since.

Even with a 225 rear, the Vredestein Sportrac 5 is still the best (and only true summer) tire option in a matching set available for our cars, IMHO anyway.

Cheers :smile:

[Bitsyncmaster]

The problem with tires, each owner only needs a set every 10 years or so. Also when they need a set it may be needed quickly so they run down to a local tire shop. In retrospect, I would have ordered a set of your tires since I found out you really should get the old ones removed and clean up the bead seating areas. Then find a place that mounts and balances tires with stick on weights (inside the rim).

[vps3922]

If you went to 185 in the front. Cooper Cobra Radial GT P185/60R14 82T with RWL

http://www.sears.com/cooper-cobra-radial-gt-tire-p185-60r14-82t/p-09534714000P?prdNo=8&blockNo=8&blockType=L8

Would match the 235 cooper cobras radial gt for the rear with RWL as well.

Is it possible to run 185 on the front? How does it look/handle?

I have Cooper Cobra G/T matching set on front and rear. I was lucky that my friend Dave G. still had 195 fronts with about 80% life in them hanging in his garage. But I always think ahead. There are a lot of unwanted and missing nails and screws on our roads. I hope that they release the hover grade soon ("Roads? Where we're going, we don't need roads.").

[pezzonovante88]

If we all hound cooper, bf Goodrich or Coker, you'd think they'd realize there was a market.

I've sent Coker several emails asking if they would consider reproducing our tires. You'd think a niche market tire company would at least respond, but no.

Tires are one of those issues we talk about more than any other. Our cars will always need tires and the more cars continue to come out of hibernation and barns, well, do the math.

I also emailed Cooper and Vredestein. No response from either.

[Rich]

If we all hound cooper, bf Goodrich or Coker, you'd think they'd realize there was a market.
I've sent Coker several emails asking if they would consider reproducing our tires. You'd think a niche market tire company would at least respond, but no.

I've done exactly the same thing. About once a year for the past 3-4 years Coker has gotten an email request from me on this subject.

It would be great if they'd at least talk about what it would take for this to happen but I've never gotten a reply from them.

[Rich_NYS]

The tire place near where I live has Cooper CS4 225/60R15 for ~$92ea (mounted.) He said they have CS3's in 195/60R14 for ~$80ea, and mentioned the tread pattern is nearly identical.

[NightFlyer]

The tire place near where I live has Cooper CS4 225/60R15 for ~$92ea (mounted.) He said they have CS3's in 195/60R14 for ~$80ea, and mentioned the tread pattern is nearly identical.

Sucks that Cooper discontinued the CS4 this year...

That setup should work just fine though.

[Rich_NYS]

Is 235 in the rear most commonly preferred?

[NightFlyer]

Is 235 in the rear most commonly preferred?

235 in the rear is the stock/OEM size. People also visually prefer it over a 225 because of it's meaty/fat/wide appearance.

[Mark D]

Or if you're building a Time Machine the correct rear size is 245/60R15

[Rich_NYS]

235 in the rear is the stock/OEM size. People also visually prefer it over a 225 because of it's meaty/fat/wide appearance.

Just checked a different setup today, prices include mount & balance: 235 Cooper Cobras in the rear for $130 ea, 195 CS3's or CS4's in the front for $90 or $95 ea (respectively.)

I've seen that combination mentioned a few times; do most guys seem satisfied with that? Should I go with CS3 or CS4 in the front?

Thanks!

[NightFlyer]

Just checked a different setup today, prices include mount & balance: 235 Cooper Cobras in the rear for $130 ea, 195 CS3's or CS4's in the front for $90 or $95 ea (respectively.)

I've seen that combination mentioned a few times; do most guys seem satisfied with that? Should I go with CS3 or CS4 in the front?

Thanks!

Save $10 and get the CS3 in the front - unless you're tracking the car, you're not really going to notice any difference anyway. Plus IMHO, the CS3 sidewall better matches the Cobra's sidewall.

BTW - You can get that combo from TreadDepot shipped for $343.60 - saves you nearly $100. I've purchased from them before - great seller.

http://www.treaddepot.com/

[eagle-co94]

Rich I'm running CS4's all around and they're great tires. I went with them because of availability. I would think that if you like the CS3's you won't be able to get them the next time around because they're (probably) being replaced by the CS4's.

[NightFlyer]

Rich I'm running CS4's all around and they're great tires. I went with them because of availability. I would think that if you like the CS3's you won't be able to get them the next time around because they're (probably) being replaced by the CS4's.

You'd think that, as it's a linear and logical progression, right? But, in reality, Cooper just recently discontinued production of the CS4 in favor of the CS5, while still producing the CS3. If you look on their website, the CS4 is no longer listed, but both the CS3 and CS5 are prominently listed.

http://us.coopertire.com/Tires/Passenger.aspx

"Goodbye CS4, Hello CS5"

http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2014/05/cooper-cs5-touring-tire-review.html

The CS5 is offered in both an Ultra Touring and Grand Touring model, however start in 15" sizes, with a 225 width and 60 profile only being available in the Ultra Touring model. The CS3 is marketed as their standard Touring model, but only offers a front in sizes that will work on our wheels (195/60R14). Thus, with the discontinuation of the CS4, you can no longer get a matching set of tires from Cooper. The closest you'd get is by running the CS3 Touring in the front (stock size) and the CS5 Ultra Touring in the rear (225), but if you're doing that, you may just as well run the Cobra in the stock size on the rear.

http://us.coopertire.com/Tires/Passenger/CS5-Ultra-Touring.aspx

http://us.coopertire.com/Tires/Passenger/CS5-Grand-Touring.aspx

http://us.coopertire.com/Tires/Passenger/Cooper-CS3-Touring.aspx

Sucks that we lost another option in terms of matching sets...

[Rich_NYS]

Rich I'm running CS4's all around and they're great tires. I went with them because of availability. I would think that if you like the CS3's you won't be able to get them the next time around because they're (probably) being replaced by the CS4's.

Thanks James, I considered the CS4's, but the Cobras are already on the way and I wanted the 235's in the rear anyway. When I'm at DCS I'm going get a good look at what 225's look like in the rear so maybe next time I'll consider those. The guy I ordered from said the CS4'sare being phased out....wasn't sure how to make sense of that one, but that's the word I heard.

[NightFlyer]

Thanks James, I considered the CS4's, but the Cobras are already on the way and I wanted the 235's in the rear anyway. When I'm at DCS I'm going get a good look at what 225's look like in the rear so maybe next time I'll consider those. The guy I ordered from said the CS4'sare being phased out....wasn't sure how to make sense of that one, but that's the word I heard.

That's correct - CS4 is longer being manufactured, thus only inventory on hand remains. The CS5 took over. See above for more.

[Rich_NYS]

Save $10 and get the CS3 in the front - unless you're tracking the car, you're not really going to notice any difference anyway. Plus IMHO, the CS3 sidewall better matches the Cobra's sidewall.

Letters in, right?




BTW - You can get that combo from TreadDepot shipped for $343.60 - saves you nearly $100. I've purchased from them before - great seller.

http://www.treaddepot.com/

NOW ya tell me...lol! J/K, I really didn't want to buy them one place then bring them to another anyway.

[NightFlyer]

Letters in, right?

I would, but that's your decision to make. If you do letters out, you could always use tire paint to create some letters on the front. Dave Graham is a big fan of RWL on our cars and did something like that on his car. I personally like both styles. What looks like ass is when you have just the fronts or rears in RWL, IMHO.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/01/thumbnail/u4eve8an.jpg

[eagle-co94]

No worries. I'm just untrusting of tires that only have a temperature rating of B or lower. I made two 450+ mile round trips inside FL in the last month in my D and I don't want to worry about my tires when I'm on the road for 3 1/2 hours straight at highway speeds when the outside temp is in the 90's and the pavement temp is running upwards of 150. It's something to consider in the south and if you plan to drive your car during hot summer months.

[DMCVegas]

From my experience, I prefer tires with a B Temperature Rating. I've found that they've actually offered better traction on my DeLorean in the rain because they heat up so much quicker. Especially on cold winter mornings. Unless you're someone that doesn't properly inflate tires and keep after their conditions, a B rating is fine. "C" is average, so anything above is better. The heat resistance is for resisting blowouts and tread separation. Which is really just caused by either overloading a tire, improper inflation, or improper construction. You have no control over manufacturing, and you want to ensure that you don't put car tires on a truck. So really that just leaves maintaining tires.

I drove on Cooper Cobras with B temp ratings for years in Vegas in triple-digit heat, and many other cars with tires of the same rating. It'll be fine.

[Chris 16409]

I just had some Falken ZiEx 912's put on my DeLorean. They replaced a matching set of Cooper Cobras I had put on the car about three or four years ago. All I can say is WOW! The Falken tires put the Cooper tires to shame in terms of ride quality. I get much less road noise and vibration with the Falken tires. I picked them up through Discount Tire Direct for less than $300 shipped. By the way I'm running the 225 series in the back, and haven't really noticed any negatives with the change in size.

[NightFlyer]

I just had some Falken ZiEx 912's put on my DeLorean. They replaced a matching set of Cooper Cobras I had put on the car about three or four years ago. All I can say is WOW! The Falken tires put the Cooper tires to shame in terms of ride quality. I get much less road noise and vibration with the Falken tires. I picked them up through Discount Tire Direct for less than $300 shipped. By the way I'm running the 225 series in the back, and haven't really noticed any negatives with the change in size.

That's not at all unexpected and inline with others' observations who have done the same.

The design characteristics between the two brands/lines are extremely different. The Cooper Cobra (and MasterCraft GT / Hercules) line were originally designed for use on full size American muscle cars with leaf spring suspensions, whereas the Falken Ziex line is a far more refined tire and actually designed for use on independent coil spring / shocks / MacPherson strut suspensions.

Most who drop from a 235 to a 225 in the rear will notice no difference, other than those of visual aesthetics, because of the way that most actually drive their cars.

Glad you're happy with your new Falken Ziex - they're a very nice tire at a very nice price.

[alexwolf1216]

Just called Discount to order the Falkens....they are discontinued.....boo

[gulwng3]

Just order the Falken's through Summit Racing and make your life easy. FREE shipping!!! Not sure how they can do free shipping, but I ain't questioning it...

http://www.summitracing.com/search/brand/falken-tire/product-line

Andy

[jmettee]

Just called Discount to order the Falkens....they are discontinued.....boo

This is what I was told when I got my Ziex 912's back in May. They had to search for the P225s for the rear & said they appears to be discontinued. In fact they said many 15" (especially P235 & P225) were going the way of the dodo.

[alexwolf1216]

Yeah the only set I found was cs4's but I think I might do the cobra + cs3 combo just to run OEM size

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using Tapatalk

[dmc6960]

Hrmph. Well that was a short run. 1 year into them I'm really enjoying my Falken 912's. The tire gods really do not like our cars.

[NightFlyer]

For those who were wanting the Falken Ziex ZE912s, but have been unsuccessful in locating a set due to their recent discontinuation, you may have better luck sourcing a set of the Ohtsu FP7000, which are a similar tire made by the same company.

Of course, my personal endorsement of the Giugiaro Designed Vredestein Sportrac 5s still stands, although they're admittedly a more expensive tire (but worth every penny IMHO).

[Mark D]

Damn, the 912's were going to be my next set of tires... gotta find something else I guess. The Vredesteins sound like a good option...who knows if those will still be around though.

[DMCMW Dave]

We're using Toyo Extenza A/S (Also in the 225 and 195) and they seem very comparable to the Falkens. In price as well. No availability issue (yet!).

[NightFlyer]

OK, with all the recent members looking for tires, I decided to update our list, and look at what I found...

*** ALERT *** Matching Sets - STOCK SIZES *** ALERT ***

Nankang NK Comfort XR-611 - Load: 86/98 Speed H/S (Nankang – Taiwan)

Matching Sets – Front 195/60R14 (OEM) / Rear 225/60R15:

Apollo Acelere - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Apollo – India)
Continental ContiPremiumContact2 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V or W (Continental – Czech Republic/Malaysia)
Cordovan Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Evergreen EH23 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (??? – China)
Falken Sincera Touring SN211 - Load: 82/95 Speed: T (Sumitomo - Thailand)
Fuzion Touring - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Bridgestone – China)
Geostar S6065 - Load: 85/96 Speed: H (Nankang – Taiwan)
Hero Atlanta AR01 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Federal – Taiwan)
JINYU YH12 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (??? – China)
Kenda Komet Plus KR23 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kenda – Taiwan)
Kenda Komet KR02 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Kenda – Taiwan)
Kumho Solus KR21 - Load: 85/95 Speed: T (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Marshal Matrac MH11 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Kumho – China/South Korea)
Multi-Mile Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Nankang NK Comfort RX-615 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Nankang – Taiwan)
Nankang NK Comfort XR-611 - Load: 86/98 Speed H/S (Nankang – Taiwan)
Nexen CP641 - Load:86/96 Speed: H (Nexen – South Korea)
Primewell PS830/850 - Load: 86/97 Speed: H (Giti – China)
Sigma Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Sonar SX-608 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (Nankang – Taiwan)
Sunny SN880 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V (South China – China)
Toyo Extensa A/S - Load: 86/96 Speed: H (Toyo – China/USA/Japan)
Vanderbilt Mirada Sport GTX - Load: 85/95 Speed: H (Sumitomo – China)
Vredestein Sportrac 5 - Load: 86/96 Speed: H/V DESIGNED BY GIUGIARO (Apollo – Netherlands)

Matching Sets – Front 185/60R14 / Rear 235/60R15 (OEM):

Cooper Cobra Radial G/T (Rear RWL) - Load: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)
Mastercraft Avenger G/T (Rear RWL) - Load: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)
Hercules H/P 4000 (Rear RWL) - Load: Speed: 82/98 Speed: T (Cooper – China/Mexico/USA)

[NightFlyer]

Only place I could find the Nankang XR-611 offered in the 235/60R15 size:

http://www.mytyres.co.uk/cgi-bin/rshop.pl?dsco=110&cart_id=82844462.110.8032&sowigan=So&Breite=235&Quer=60&Felge=15&Speed=S&kategorie=6&ranzahl=4&S_Z=R&Transport=P&x_tyre_for=&m_s=3&Ang_pro_Seite=20&rsmFahrzeugart=PKW&Label=E-C-71-2&details=Ordern&typ=R-227464

The matching 195/60R14 for the fronts are fairly easy to locate.

Perhaps someone looking for tires might want to contact Nankang about importing a few of the 235/60R15s for interested D owners???

[NightFlyer]

As I've received a couple PMs about these, I just wanted to go on record that the Nankang NK Comfort XR-611 receives marginal to poor reviews (and is made in Taiwan), thus while they are being produced in stock/OEM sizes for a matching set, I still wouldn't personally recommend them or put them on my own car.

My personal endorsement still goes to the Vredestein Sportrac 5, even though you do have to drop the rears down to a 225.

[Dangermouse]

I hear a lot of anecdotal comments from friends in the UK about how crappy Nankangs are. The phrase "Chinese Ditchfinders" is used often.

[alexwolf1216]

I ordered a set of Cooper CS4's. The place wants to dispose of the factory rear tires, which look pretty good to me. The fronts were splitting, but no visible damage on the rears. Any reason to keep them? Is anyone out there looking for the Goodyear rears?

[DavidProehl]

I ordered a set of Cooper CS4's. The place wants to dispose of the factory rear tires, which look pretty good to me. The fronts were splitting, but no visible damage on the rears. Any reason to keep them? Is anyone out there looking for the Goodyear rears?

Goodyear NCTs in good condition have value to concours owners. If you post a for sale thread I bet they would sell. 5 years ago I found someone to give me $100 for my original rears.

[NightFlyer]

Goodyear NCTs in good condition have value to concours owners. If you post a for sale thread I bet they would sell. 5 years ago I found someone to give me $100 for my original rears.

To my personal amazement, of the 3 cars that entered the concours at DCS this year, I was the only one who was running the NCTs (and I actually put 900 miles on them getting to and from the show, not to mention drag raced with them on Thursday night). Ken K had NCTs on his car, but he didn't enter the concours (something about it having been judged too much already in the past and that he rarely if ever drives the thing, so it never changes).

Condition is everything with the NCTs - which BTW, the concours judges remarked that my NCTs were the 'nicest they had ever seen.' Of course, I think the coolest part is how I'm still willing to drive on them anywhere in the country :biggrin:

Ordinarily, I'd be interested in acquiring more excellent condition NCTs, but I'm currently sitting on 3 full sets as it is, and Texas is too far/expensive for me to ship from.

But if your NCTs are in good shape and have a decent amount of tread left on them - definitely offer them to the community, as someone will be sure to want them at some point. :thumbup:

[madstudios]

I would, but that's your decision to make. If you do letters out, you could always use tire paint to create some letters on the front. Dave Graham is a big fan of RWL on our cars and did something like that on his car. I personally like both styles. What looks like ass is when you have just the fronts or rears in RWL, IMHO.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/01/thumbnail/u4eve8an.jpg

Hi!
Is this DeLorean of the photo using 185/60r14 on front?

[rgehrig]

Hi all.
I just acquired a 1981 DeLorean.
It has been in a collection for the last several years, so I started looking for a new set of tires.
About the only ones I found are General Tire AltiMAX RT45.
Available in 195/60R14 and 225/60R15.

[WHO1DMC]

Hi all.
I just acquired a 1981 DeLorean.
It has been in a collection for the last several years, so I started looking for a new set of tires.
About the only ones I found are General Tire AltiMAX RT45.
Available in 195/60R14 and 225/60R15.



If you're in the states the go to tire in Hankook kinergy ST they are matching stock sizes. One difference is that the back tires one side is black wall the other is mostly smooth with white lettering.
I just got a set so I plan on putting the black too the outside and painting over the white lettering and that will go to the inside. The cheapest price is Walmart right now.



Good luck and congrats on the D.
Dave B.

[Rich]

If you're in the states the go to tire in Hankook kinergy ST they are matching stock sizes. One difference is that the back tires one side is black wall the other is mostly smooth with white lettering.
I just got a set so I plan on putting the black too the outside and painting over the white lettering and that will go to the inside. The cheapest price is Walmart right now.

Yes, the Hankook Kinergy ST is the popular setup for matching F/R in North Am these days.

When they became available 2 yrs ago this thread started on the topic of these particular tires (https://dmctalk.org/showthread.php?18546), including a way to deal with the raised white letters on the rears, as noted here. 50 posts on that topic now.

I've heard of no complaints except during some months in the first year when at least the rears were out of stock. Tirerack shows both sizes in stock today.