Luke - Re: 1983 - 300SD fitments - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

artpb · #1 02-09-2003, 03:57 PM

I am running Michelin Rainforce tires on factory rims. The tread depth is over half gone and it is time to start looking at prospects for replacement. This is also an opportunity to update the looks of subject car. For reference, I am happy with the ride. These tires track well, have good side-to-side response and only seem a bit soft entering corners.

My objective is to also improve performance a bit without compromising ride quality. Although this car is removed from operation during winter, I do drive in some snow in late fall and early spring as long as salting operations are not yet/no longer in effect.

I am interested in Tire Racks AT Italia Type 8 (silver) as a modest update in the 15X7 size. I think I have setteled on either the Dunlop SP Sport A2 or Turanza LS-H for tires. The reviews for these tires are almost identical although they are in different performance catagories.

I did notice that there was a difference in tread width such that
the 15 inch Dunlop would be about the same as my 14 inch Rainforce tires. The Bridgestones would have a wider tread width.

What factors do I need to consider to determine if the Bridgestones would be worth 50% more to me? Also since I am lnot looking for benchmark handleing improvements what would the effect of going to the 16 inch rims with the same tires be? And finally, what are the offsets of the respective 15/16 inch rims?

Tnx in advance - art

Luke@tirerack · #2 02-18-2003, 08:32 AM

the tire debate can be summed up very simply ...

if your priorities are more for ride quality over handling
Turanza's all the way

if you would prefer better handling and are willing to sacrifice some ride quality
Sport A2's are the way to go ..

I would go with the TUranzas since you will automatically get better handling when you go to a larger wheel diameter