OEM size Kumho Ecsta SPT or
OEM size Sumitomo HTR Z III

I know there's been considerable discussion, but I'm ready to patronize TR.COM

 

I put a set of Sumitomos on my TT 6 months ago--not one problem, quiet ride and good in wet weather. I know they're not "big boy performance" tires, but for the value, they do what I need them to do--which is drive in the real world (And I got them from TR, too.)

 

g8rdmd

thanks for the response. you must be the only one on this board using either of these 2 tires? sometimes I use dunlop 756 RR's

 

There was like a 10 page thread not too long ago with the title "I made the plunge, budget performance tire" or something like that. It was all about the HTRZ IIIs.

There were many ppl who commented so it's probaby your best bet. From what I read, I'd say go for them.

 

I have about 10k miles on my Kumho Ecstas. I've been real happy with them - even the rears still look pretty good. Make sure you keep the inflation up.

Jon

 

I also have the Kumho Ecstas, Ive put about 5k miles on them and so far I am happy with the cost/performance. I replaced the PS2's which have little straight line traction, but good lateral traction. The Kumhos turn in response isnt razor sharp, but overall they handle very well wet or dry. I would buy another set but might try the sumitomo's as a comparison.

 

I've had 2 pairs of Kumhos on my car, they are a good value. If I had to knock them I'd say they're too soft for track use and they don't wear all that well (12k miles per rear.....and I don't drive very hard).

 

what tire has the stiffest sidewall that would fit on the stock turbo wheels?

 

You won't be disappointed in the sumitomo's considering the money.

 

I agree Karl. I have had these tires on for 7 months now and done two track weekends and have no complaints.

Hope to see you at hpt next weekend!

 

I also have the SPT's and they have been fine for everyday use. They are fine in the Florida monsoon rains in the summer. The only problem is I dont think the sidewall fills out the rim very good but thats a visual preference. They were worth the money for me.

 

I put a set of these on recently and really like them.

they are definitely NOT as sticky as the contis or PS2s.

However what you get are

-MUCH quieter (road noise is much improved)
-softer ride
-great wet weather performance
-much longer treat life
-half the cost
-makes street handling more entertaining (on a PSS9 car)

The lack of grip and additional "softness" is kin of nice for my present street application. I would definitely NOT use these at the track. The high speed lateral grip is definitely not as confidence inspiring as the stock N1s, but they do make my car more 'fun' to drive on the street. (car is has suspension mods, 640hp)

IMO these are 80% the performance, but add a huge amount of civility to my car - and they are half as much.

how are the sumis on the street? quiet and smooth also?