W126 new tire recommendations? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

edge · #1 05-02-2003, 12:49 AM

Time for new tires on the 85 300SD I just bought, 205/ 70-14. Any recommendations from board members. I need a compromise between good handling and quite, thanks.

#2 05-02-2003, 07:43 AM

edge,

I THINK that this car should have 205 65 15's. Just changing to that size from what is on there would offer a little better handling and road feel.

In the 205 65 size, I bought a set of Continentals ContiTouring AS tires that were somewhat economical and long wearing tires.

There are many parameters to consider when selecting tires. For my situation, treadwear is the number one parameter, but I drive 50,000 miles a year plus the company I work for is almost belly up.

If you don't drive so many miles and don't mind tires that wear out quickly as a price for stickier tires, your options broaden. If you go to a speed rated tire, the sidewall construction is different and will offer a better handling tire.

If you don't have to fit within a budget, then it's difficult to go wrong with Michelins. They are the best tire you can buy if you don't mind giving your money to the French (a personal choice.) If you want a compromise on price on a non French made product, Continental makes a new tire called the Extreme. Click on the Tire Rack logo at the top of this page and you can get a wealth of information and good prices.

Good luck,

Chiragp · #3 05-02-2003, 09:06 AM

Some w126s came with 15" wheels and 205/65/15. Others before then had a 14" wheel standard with 195/70/14.

Luke@tirerack · #4 05-02-2003, 10:37 AM

here's my recommendation

P195/70R14 BS TURANZA LS-H

Mercedesshop tire search

edge · #5 05-02-2003, 10:52 AM

So I guess I would have to get 15" rims to fit 15" tires, huh? I don't think I want to spring for alloys in addition to tires at this time. I just bought Eurolights and a hood pad for the car. Luke, apparently the tires you recommended are not available in that size...only the T speed rated is.

#6 05-02-2003, 12:00 PM

My apologies. I did not read past the "205 70."

Since you have 14" wheels, you need to pay closer attention to load rating. Your car is heavier than the 123's that I have commonly run 14's.

Good luck,

ck42 · #7 05-11-2003, 10:41 PM

Edge,

I just went thru the whole tire investigation thing not too long ago.
I wanted good performance, very good wet road handling, good wear, and quietness at least equal to the Michellins I was replacing....oh, and they had to be inexpensive

After a ton of hrs spent trying to make a decision, I went with the Turanza LS-H. Bottom line, I'm VERY please thus far.

edge · #8 05-22-2003, 11:59 PM

Luke, apparently the Bridgestone TURANZA LS-H are not available in 205/70-14 sizing.

My alternatives for a H rated 205 tire for my 85 300SD are the Firestone Affinity LH30 for $73 shipped and mounted from TireRack or a MIchelin MXV4 for $102 mounted at Costco ($15 sale per tire in June).

ck42 · #9 05-23-2003, 09:14 AM

Hey edge,

I've heard several people recently comment on their happiness with the Goodyear Regatta 2 tire. I really didn't even consider a Goodyear at first but it might be something to check out.

Chris
'85 300SD

Luke@tirerack · #10 05-23-2003, 10:50 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by edge
Luke, apparently the Bridgestone TURANZA LS-H are not available in 205/70-14 sizing.

My alternatives for a H rated 205 tire for my 85 300SD are the Firestone Affinity LH30 for $73 shipped and mounted from TireRack or a MIchelin MXV4 for $102 mounted at Costco ($15 sale per tire in June).

I like the Affinity you mentioned .... and if you are using the 205 size it is a good choice

CSchmidt · #11 06-03-2003, 10:49 PM

Luke / others,

I have an 87 300 sdl, going to need tires in a few months. I've seen some posts on going to 225/60/15's. Any opinions? I'm mostly a highway cruiser (lots of 80mph+ time) with some back roads 2 lane driving. We get occassional snow / sleet in NC, so I would like an all season tire on the higher performance end, and of course quiet in this car.

The tire-rack selector and ratings pointed at the Bridgestone Turanza (about $100/tire) and at a Dunlop SP Sport A2 (about $70/tire). Suggestions on:

1. the oversize move vs. stock size?

2. either of the choices above?

Thanks, I've used tirerack several times on my Mustang and Ford Van. I'm going to need tires on my '93 Lincoln Mark VIII soon also (226/60/16). It has Michelin Symetry tires on it. They have been pretty good... again any suggestion?

Chuck

#12 07-11-2003, 09:07 PM

Luke put me in a set of Firestone Firehawk SZ50's 225 60/15 about two years ago. They are quite quite, ride great and stick like you wouldn't believe. At 70 mph on I-78 in a heavy rain you would hardly notince the difference than a damp road. Caution, you may find yourself taking corners fast than you have in the past. They take a little bit becomming acustomed to the look but they grow on you. I have no reason to try any other tire on this car.

Jim

91 560 SEL