Hi,
My first post here. I just called a guy who has four snow tires from a Mini Cooper (Non S), does anyone know if I can put them on my 2003 Cooper S?

I don't have the tire size, but they look to be factory rims.

James

 

I'm assuming you're talking about tires on Mini wheels (or wheels that fit the Cooper), in which case they will fit unless you've upgraded your brakes. All Minis 2002 through early 2006 build can share wheels (15", 16", 17" or higher) unless you've got an aftermarket big brake kit.

If they're just the tires (no wheels), make sure they are the same rim size as yours (if you've got 16" rims, make sure they're 16" tires).

I know that's basic on the rim size, apologies if it's too basic.

Do Grab 'em quick, they're selling fast!

 

thanks very much for the information. Yes they are on Mini rims or so it looks. http://images.craigslist.org/1f81271...ff8221121b.jpg

They are 15" which I have heard is better in the snow?

thanks,
James

 

Rim diameter does have a bit to do with snow capability, since it gives you more sidewall height relative to diameter. Also to consider: brand, type, and width of snow tires. Some are more snow-optimized (Wintermark, other less expensive brands) and as such give up some dry/wet performance and tend to be more noisy/squirmy. Some are more optimized for ice (base level Blizzaks & base Dunlop) and can be squirmy in the dry and not last too long. Some are "performance" snows (my preference for where I live), and give up a little snow/ice performance in favor of better wet/dry stability. Choose based on your preference, good information at www.tirerack.com.

THAT SAID: Winter tires are NIGHT AND DAY better than all-seasons on snow. At our Mini club winter driver's education event, we drove summer, all-season & winter tires back to back on icy/snowy/wet/dry courses; there is a very distinct, measurable difference. Same driver, same course, same car ('06 MCS), snow/ice/wet autocross: 45 seconds on winter tires, 1:00+ on all-seasons (trying just as hard each time). Importantly, the all-seasons left a feeling of helplessness and lack of control where the winter tires were more predictable in their actions.

Those are neat wheelcovers, haven't seen them before. What are they asking? What's the tread depth? If they are reasonably decent, snap 'em up!