tire/rim question for 85 380sl - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

tlz-r-us · #1 11-14-2005, 07:42 PM

quick questions for the tire experts..

i have a 85 380sl... stock tires are 205-70/14..

first... are there any other tire sizes that can be used instead.. if so.. what do i gain.. what do i lose?

second.. if i go with a rim and tire package.. what would be the best upgraded size or package combination.. again.. what do i gain.. what do i lose..

lastly... i was just looking at tires on tirerack.com.. when i searched for tires by car.. i was only given a couple of options.. then i checked via size.. and it gave me many other options.. iam usually a stock kinda guy.. just looking for that sporty stance the cars have today.. and not sure a 70 series tire offers that..

what i'm looking for is a tire that both performs well.. and has a good look about it... i did like the yokohama's (avid t4).. but would like other options.. i dont want to "skimp" on tires because they are important.. but i dont want to get caught up in name.. i saw the kumho "power stars" and they looked good.. and for $34 a tire.. what a bargain..

raymr · #2 11-17-2005, 08:43 AM

You are right, there are not many choices. I cheated a little and got the Kumho Power Stars. They are a T-rated tire. I am happy with them so far and they look decent. For me, putting high speed rated tires on a 20 year old vehicle is a waste. I just want them to hold air, not push the performance envelope. PS - Some online stores are picky about matching tire speed ratings with cars; Don't specify your make and model when ordering.

You can always upgrade to bigger wheels and get more tire choices. Just make sure the offset stays the same. If you are more into modernizing the look of your car instead of keeping it original, I would go that route. You may get a slightly rougher ride with a lower profile tire.

tlz-r-us · #3 11-17-2005, 11:59 PM

thanks..

i'm new to this stuff... i am usually a stock kinda guy.. but just looking for options..

so the "power stars" are a good tire ?? it just seems for $35 you shouldnt be getting much... but i am like you.. by no means do i think the car should be handling like its on rails.. i just want something thats going to look nice.. hold up well and be reasonable on the pocket book... if you know what i mean

raymr · #4 11-18-2005, 08:37 PM

If the car is your pride and joy, spring for the better name tires. But if its a dent & ding special, and you think you might ditch it when the tranny goes, get the power stars.