Need help selecting vintage-looking tires for 15x7 and 15x8 wheels

[911scfanatic]

I have searched, and my head is going to explode. So, I thought I would post a new thread. I would like the vintage look, but don't want to pay $400/tire at Coker. Any options? Personal experiences and pics of tires on car would be a big help too. TIA.

[Chuck Miller]

Bill,

I assume the car is flared... yes?

If so, and if it's just for the looks and not so much for performance, I'd go to Tire Rack and punch in 205/60 - 215/60 and pick a cheap set that looks good to you...

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/Compar...r=&RunFlat=All

Hope this helps,

Cheers

[J-P]

I went through the same problem last year that you are currently having trying to shod 7 and 8 x 15 wheels.

You need to decide if you want the vintage look or if you want cheap, 'cause you can't have both

If you want a great performing tire compund AND a vintage look for those wheels, there in only one real option - Avon CR6ZZ tires.

185/70 up front, and 215/60 in the rear.

This is the correct factory wheel fitment for the 73 RS and 74 Carrera, if fitted with optional 7's and 8's, rather than standard 6's and 7's, which could take 185/70's all around. 7's and 8's were standard in 75 Carreras.

Michelin XWX won't work for this application, as they only come in 185/70, and that is just too narrow for the 8's.

You will need to do some searching, because these particular Avons are imported from the UK in small quantities, and typically need to be ordered. My last computer with all my saved favorite websites crashed, or else I'd tell you who I used. If I recall, they were in Nevada. Just do a Google search for Avon racing tires and start making phone calls, or search this site. You may get lucky.

If you want cheap, I can help you there, too. I use a very nice set of all-weather street tires that look fantastic on the car, but have a more modern tread and are not V rated, which the Avons are. However, they look great and they feel and drive even better. Couldn't be happier for the money.

PM for info if interested.

[boxster03]

Costco now sells slicks. who would have ever guessed check it out maybe they are available in 15's

[911scfanatic]

Thanks, JP. This site says the 185/70 are for 5.5-6" widths...not wide enough for 7's?
http://www.rogerkrausracing.com/Avon/AVCR6ZZ.shtml

[boba]

Here is a source for the Avons.

http://www.sascosports.com/products/...php?type_id=39

[Cornpanzer]

I dont have much to add other than tires like those Avons are probably going to be such a soft compound that they will not be suitable for road trips.

Also, remember, tires, wheels and stance make the car! If you find the right tire, dont cheap out How many cars have you seen where you said, "man if only it had different tires"?

[911scfanatic]

Unfortunately, at this point I just need options. Maybe Goodyear Blue Streaks, but they are bias ply.

[andyjboy]

J-P - just one slight correction to your post:

'73 RS was equipped with 185/70 (front) & 215/60 x 15" (rear) tyres whether it came with 6&7's or 7&8's.

I have Avon CR6ZZ tyres in those sizes on my 911R-inspired car & find them excellent - both in terms of performance & 'period' looks.

[RSwannabe]

There is a new option from Hoosier - The Speedster.

http://www.bobwoodmantires.com/hoosier/speedster.htm

It is R compound and only comes in 3 sizes so far, but one of those is 205/60/15 and another is 225/50/15. Vintage style tread pattern as well and should be great performance (at least in the dry, not sure about the wet). Price is reasonable too.