Hi all
I've decided against buying new rims because I'm going to college very soon, but I still need to replace the tires with something for the meantime. I'm thinking something in the 205s or 215s. Right now I'm on 195/65/15 on 15 x 6.5" rims. Which size will offer best performance? Also, I would like some tire recommendations if that's not too much trouble. I don't care about the ride that much, I'm thinking more performance oriented. Needs good traction for rain as well. Thanks.

Well my recommendations stay the same: Wider is better , so I say 215/60/15

Firestone Firehawk SH30 for long wear and good performance (almost touring mixed with performance) $65

However, if you want more performance, I suggest the 205/60/15, because they will feel more precise in the handling, and offer more choices.

Of course you have the Dunlop SP Sport 5000 for $64 but is more performance based then the Firestones.

------------------
Chirag (Charlie) Patel

- 99 Mercedes-Benz ML 430 V8 w/custom TV, Video, UHF, speaker system
- 93 190E 2.6 (4-sale) w/ an amp, equalizer, and CD-changer, integrated w. stock stereo for integrated cellular phone speaker system
- had a 93 190E m103 3.2, 5-speed trans,
- had a 88 300E 2.6
- had a 84 300TD w/275k+ miles
- 2002 S500/S600 - Maybe in a little more then a year

I disagree. Wider is NOT better. Especially on W124s. The wider the tire, the more it will wonder and tramline (unless it is a directional tread tire). A 215/60/15 would also slow it down significantly.

On the stock rims, I'd do a 205/60/15 in Michelin Pilot SX-GT. I have this combo on mmy 1997 C280, and it rocks! If not that tire, stick to stock size if possible. It works better on the narrower rim. Don't buy anything that isn't a Michelin. Nothing is as drop-dead consistent. If you are spending good money, why not get the best?

I am totally biased here. Most people will probably disagree with my opinion here, too. I'm sure the rest are okay, but why not get the best if the money doesn't bother you?

------------------
1988 Mercedes-Benz 260E (W124)
Arctic White/Grey MB-Tex
Debadged
Euro Headlights
1994/1995 Turn Signals and Taillights
16" x 7J 8-hole (Authentic MB)
Michelin Pilot HX MXM 205/55WR16

Because your a college student I am guessing money is an object If you do consider the Dunlops SP5000's my take is they are really good tires for the money. I am running them on 16's on my W124. They do require breaking in. Wet performance and noise are phenomenal, truly unbelievable! Decent cornering with very pleasant feedback. They are all season tires though so maybe you should try something else seeing as you live in CA. Just my 2 cents on this particular tire.

yal
88 230E (W124)
Euroheadlights
Clear corners,
monoch'/red tailights,
e420 sport replicas

I agree with the concensus about the SP Sport 5000's from Dunlop. Even though they are an allseason tire they do have a "AA" wet traction rating and perform very well.
Thanks, Luke

------------------
Luke Pavlick
Performance Specialist (ASE Certified Master Tech)
Please, call me to place orders (800-428-8355 ext. 362)
or mention my name for on-line orders
(click banner at top of the page
to visit Tire Rack web site)