Just read the post on the Yokohama DBs...the feedback is very positive as is everything else I've read about that tire...I also like the design (and price) of the Kuhmo and Sumi also...Kuhmo ECSTA 712 reminds me of the old Goodyear Aquatreads and the Sumitomo HTRZII is just one radical looking tire...reminds me of a motorcycle tire for a car...both are highly rated on tirerack...I live on the beautiful NC coast and deal with only rain (sometimes heavy, but no snow), so "summer" tire qualities are what interest me...any "real world" experience out there?...as always, thank you "Brothers of the Benz"...L8r, Bill

I am using the Sumitomo HTR-ZII on my C43 AMG (replacing Michelin Pilot Sports) and have been very happy with them -- better wet performance than Michelins tho not quite the dry grip toward limits; seem to wear much better at edges and much less expensive.

The HTR-ZII is a different tire from the HTR-Z and I would go with the ZII.

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'98 C43 AMG
'88 420SEL
'93 190E Limited Edition (including factory Sportline package)

I had the HTRZII s on my 17" AMG wheels on my old 190E 2.6...great tire; quiet, good grip,reasonable price...*****in' looks too. You couldn't go wrong with it in my opinion. BTW, my folks live in New Bern, NC...maybe we could have our benzes meet up?

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Jim

1992 500E
2007 CLK63
2003 Audi RS6
2001 Audi allroad

I got rid of my Kumho after about 1000 miles. I couldn't stand the uncoordinated moves, ride, and noise. You get what you paid for in this case. The Kumho droves very much like a four season tire, so if that is what you are looking for then they are okay.

I think the AVS db is probably a better choice if you are using stock sizes. There are more choices if you go to 16".

I've driven both a Subaru WRX and 400E with the Kumho's. I didn't notice anything but predictable handling.

FWIW- I LOVE the Nokian NRZi's (pricey) and for a All-Season 400-wear "W" rated tire I'm running the BF Goodrich KDWS.

:-) neil
1988 360TE AMG
1993 500E

Jim...New Bern is a couple of hours north of me but a pretty nice drive...let me know when you're going to be in the area and if my schedule permits, maybe we can hook up... Neil...thanks alot for your time and patience in letting me pick your brain last night...I'm still trying to figure out which way I want to go - H&Rs w/sports or maybe just stay w/stock springs and the HDs...decisions, decisions...Bill