What do you guys use for tires???

[spinedoc]

Im looking for new tires for my 1991 500SL and would like a tire that has excellent handling properties while at the same time is the quietest smoothest ride. I currently run Kumho Ecsta and find them very noisy and not smooth at all.

Currently I am looking at the Yokohama AVS, either the dB S2 or the Sport, or the Bridgestone Potenza 730.

My tire size is 245/40 R18.

So what are you guys running for tires?

[jjrodger]

Michelin Pilot SX (MXX3). These were fitted as original equipment on most high performance Mercedes from at least 1992 on. I find them very satisfactory. Dry traction under acceleration and, particularly, braking is excellent. No problems in wet weather either. My tyres are 245/45 R 17 W.

[den500sl]

At the premium cost of z-rated tires and in deference to MB, I can't afford to experiment so I'll stick with them. Anyone with a wealth of experience on different makes and brands care to break down attributes in terms of wet and dry handling, braking, noise, ride comfort and tread longevity?

97 sl500 triple black
sport pkg1
24k miles

[Tabasco]

I myself have the Michelin Pilot Sport tires on my 2002 and love them (except for the winter months) They make the car ride like it was on a rail.

[Roger]

I really love my V rated Yoko DB decibels. Quiet, smooth, wet and dry traction, and not expensive like the frog tires, smoother and quieter than the origional Continentals.

[spinedoc]

Roger I am looking hard at the db's, I would love a quiet tire.

So its between the yoko es100 and the dbs.

[tecqboy]

About 3 issues back, more or less, the "STAR" magazine ran an extensive article about high performance replacement tires as they relate to Mercedes sports machines. I don't have it in front of me at work, but if I find the issue number when I get home, I'll add it to the post.

[spinedoc]

tecqboy, could you put the article conclusion up if its not too long, I dont have access to that publication.

Anyone have a tie breaker with the ES100 versus the dB S2?

[tecqboy]

The issue was March / April 2002. It does not recomend any one particular tire or manufacturer. Rather, it is a "guide" to use when considering the purchase of new tires. It explains what the codes and ratings mean and how to select tires based on driving needs. Basically a primer on tires and wheels. Sections discussed are tire constuction, reading the side walls, load ratings, speed ratings, traction ratings, temperature ratings,etc. Having been written by the Mercedes technical editor, it basically concludes that you should see / consult your Mercedes dealer when replacing your tires. Don't buy a tire just because you like to way it looks. Only use Mercedes approved tires for your particular vehicle. Well, it is their magazine. Tod

[TommyMB]

I currently have the AVS ES100 on my 500SEL and I love them. I had the AVS Sport before that and the ES100 is a better match for the car. I also have the AVS Sport on on of my Porsche and they are great on that car. I had a set of Kumho 712 that I got rid of after 1000 miles because of bad road manner and lousy handling.

I would buy the ES100 again.

Tommy

I tried Yoko and was disappointed. I went back to Michelin's and the car still rides like new.

I recommend Luke@tiretrack as he put me in the right tire for the conditions I drive.

[spinedoc]

My tire dealer just ordered me the Yoko DB S2, but if they cost too much I might just go for the Sumitomo HTR Z2, Ive read some great reviews on them.

So now Im down to 2 at least...

I would not recommend the RE 730. While these skins are great for handling and ride well, they also howl like you wouldn't believe. If you want Bridgestone, go with the Pole Position S03. Sure it costs more, but it is a much quieter tire.
If cost is no option, Michelin Piolots are excellent.
I thought maybe it was just me complaining about the 730s but I have also recently talked to some other folks with these tires and they expressed the same sentiment. I guess it depends on the amount of noise your willing to accept v. price v. performance.
I normally just lurk on this board for all the great info but felt you should have the opinion of somebody with experience driving on the 730s. Spend the extra on the S03s. Hope this helps.

[Stuart S]

I put a set of 4 Bridgestone Potenza SO-3's (245-40 18) on my '93 600SL in January and am very pleased, although the ride is somewhat harsher than the original tires on 16" wheels. I expected more road noise but that didn't happen. Much quicker steering response and turn-in as well as far greater cornering grip than the OE Michelin tires. Can't tell you about wet traction, as my car has never been in the rain. Paid under $190 each at Costco with $60 off coupon - a great deal! Check out Tire Rack's reviews at www.tirerack.com

[spinedoc]

I think my current goal is to try and find some 17" tires. I just could not handle the harshness of the 18" ride and am quite happy with my 96 and its 16". So I hope by going to 17" it will stil be a somewhat comfy ride.