Hi,
Quick question - is 83V the right load/speed rating for an mx5 (mk 2.5 sport)? Wheel size 205/45 R16, and I’m looking at Uniroyal Rainsport 3s.
The 83Y is cheaper in some places, so is there any reason NOT to go for this higher speed rating, even if it’s not really needed?
The third option is 87Y - but this has too high a load rating I think?
Thanks!
The Y rating may be worse if the car is a daily driver and you use it all years round so a maybe that the grip would be worse in cold conditions but that is a big maybe.
I am of the opinion that your concern about the load rating does not hold “water”. Can you actually point to specific information to show what problems it will cause rather than your own assumptions that it is " too high" an assumption held by other members without any factual basis shown to date.
The original tyres were 83Y (Bridgestone ER30) because this is pretty much the standard for this size however V is plenty good enough. If you can get an MX-5 to run at a constant 149 you are doing well. The load rating will make no difference to you.
What is your priority on these? The RainSport is a competent wet tyre but has almost become the default tyre because it was offered very cheaply when it was launched and so it got a lot of coverage on the internet. There are equally good wet tyres.
The Hankook Ventus Prime 3 is an equally competent tyre and same money. Also there is the Kumho KU39 in that size which while it only rates as B for wet braking, there will be next to nothing in it, will last longer and probably cost you less.
Thanks NickD - based on what you say, and a few other things I’ve just read, sounds like Rainsports may not be quite what I’m after - looking or something that’ll help out a bit with icy conditions. Will start different thread tho for this.