1986 190D tire recommendation - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

dsvw · #1 12-30-2021, 01:02 AM

Hi,

I have a 1986 190D 2.5L non-turbo automatic.

Can someone with tire experience on these cars recommend a good all season tire for the mid-atlantic area of the US. Yes, we do get snow and these light cars are rear wheel drive.

Thanks!

Sugar Bear · #2 12-30-2021, 10:49 AM

What size, speed rating and load index are on the door post tire placard? Does it have original wheels?

dsvw · #3 12-30-2021, 02:26 PM

The wheels are original to the car.

The label says 185/65 R 15 87 S
Capacity weight: 930 LBS

Sugar Bear · #4 12-30-2021, 07:02 PM

Where do you live...snow area, average temps etc? It matters significantly as to which type of tire to select.

Sugar Bear · #5 12-30-2021, 07:14 PM

If you live in a quite variable climate i.e., not always hot I'd look at General Altimax RT43's. I've been through a few of these and was very satisfied.

Hope this helps, good luck!!!

dsvw · #6 12-30-2021, 07:58 PM

I live in Maryland.

If I am sitting at a stop light or waiting to yield into traffic, and the roads are wet, my rear tires will spin from time to time.

Looking to pick up some good tires and I will add some weight to the trunk as well to help out.

Sugar Bear · #7 12-30-2021, 08:04 PM

In that climate I'd get the RT43's. There may be better tires available but I've liked them and believed I got a lot of product for the money. This is from someone that was a tire brand snob for decades. RT43's come in two speed ratings for your size T and H.

Tire spin can also be from old tires with hard rubber.

Good luck!!!

Screwdriva · #8 12-31-2021, 09:27 PM

https://www.michelinman.com/auto/tires/michelin-defender-t-plus-h

No better tyre for a Mercedes Benz, especially when life is factored in. I am still amazed Michelin discontinued the 14" range entirely leaving us W123 and W115 owners with few options.

Bengoshi2000 · #9 01-03-2022, 07:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sugar Bear

If you live in a quite variable climate i.e., not always hot I'd look at General Altimax RT43's. I've been through a few of these and was very satisfied.

Can confirm. I've had two sets of RT43's on my Golf TDI. I put a set on my '91 300D and I've been happy with them. Haven't had any snow/ice here in NC since, but wet handling is fairly impressive. Had a set of Goodyear ASSurance on it previously...ugh. Never been so happy to replace a set of tires.