Hi, newbie here. Bought a 1st-gen Cooper S about 18 months ago - can't even remember the year, believe it or not - and it's time to buy some tires.

Currently it is running Pirelli Pzero 205/45/R17. Two of the tires are worn, which gives me the opportunity to shop for other tires. I know nothing about tires so I don't know what seasoned Mini folks can suggest.

The ones currently on the car I reckon are good, but they ride hard. I knew this when I was shopping for Minis so it's not such an issue other than I don't want anything more punishing than what it currently is.

I live in CA so I normally don't have to deal with inclement weather, but I also may move to a Southern clime which likely has rain, so I am open to that consideration but it should not be a motivating factor in your suggestion.

I probably am forgetting something so just ask if it helps with your answer - thanks!

 

Take a look in the 'Tires, Wheels and Brakes' forum, lots of threads on this subject..

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...and-brakes-36/

 

Thanks - will do.

 

I just switched my R53 from the original Dunlop run-flats to the Hankook Ventus K112 Evo 110. It was a night and day improvement in terms of noise and ride quality. Handling seems the same.

I don't know how the Hankooks compare to other makes or models, but at $66 each from Tire Rack, plus a $40 rebate by mail, it was a deal that couldn't be beat.

 

Check out the Michelin Pilot Super Sports. Highly recommended on NAM.

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I ended up getting some Continentals, per a suggestion in another thread (in the proper "tire forum"). I can't remember the model, but it was a good cross between performance and price of all the ones suggested.

But now I realize one of my control arms is effed up. :-(

 

Doh! Sorry to hear man. Better get that squared away asap.

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I knew it needed an alignment, but that (plus the worn tires) explains the squirrelly handling.