After reading several threads on old tires, I realized my tires are old. I have a set of Yoko AVS ES 205x50x16 purchased in spring of 2003. I have around 6.5k on the tires, warm weather use only and stored properly.
Tread is good and sidewalls look good but I am now concerned about the age. Should these tires be replaced?
If I do replace the tires, what sizes can be run on my wheels? The wheels are SSR Comps 16x6.5. Mini is lowered around 1" using H-Sport springs. I am in the process of installing a boatload of mods - head, cam, clutch, LSD - on top of what I already have - header/cat, exhaust, CIA, intercooler. I am thinking a wider tire would be better able to handle increased power.
If I am maxed out with my current wheels, what would be a good option since I want to stay with a light wheel. Sent an e-mail to Alex, but will end up calling him to hash out details.

Thanks,

 

They could be even older than you think. You can determine their
birthweek from the last 4 digits of the DOT tire id #
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tirete....jsp?techid=11
for instance, a number ending in 4102 would be the 41st week of 2002.
Some companies used to reccomend replacement at 10 years, but most
now reccomend replacement once a tire is 6 years old.

I'd replace them now and I'd stick with 205/50/16.
How about these? Dunlop Direzza Sport Z1 Star Spec.
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires....e1=yes&place=0

 

Cristo,
Thanks for the response. Checked the tires and they are 1 year older than I thought. I have been looking at the Dunlops you mentioned - impressive tire.