Hello all,

My 2004 MC Non-S model, which I just bought since Monday. I love driving the car and can't stop smiling...

Anyways, it's time for new tires. Currently, I am using stock size of 195/55/16. I would like to stay with the same size and I have no desired to take it to the track or anything like that. However, I am the aggressive driver type and I love corners...

Since I am the 3rd owner of this fun car, I am sure that I don't have run-flat tires on there.. And I think they're Firestone, but uncertain on the model. I do know that the tmps does work since it complained to me once already (-:

Anyways, I am looking for recommendation on tires that is great in all seasons and easy on the pocket book.

Thank you in advance.

Jay

 

I have a 2004 MCS that I bought about a month ago. It has 205/50/16 Hankook Ventus V4 tires on. This is my first experience with both Mini and Hankook, but I have no complaints so far. I believe the tires have about 8000 miles on them. I noticed on TireRack.com they sell for $82 each, which doesn't seem too bad. I'm like you - not a track guy but love driving aggressively.

Reid

 

Thanks for the recommendation!! I wonder if I should go with the size of 205/50/16 or stay put at 195/55/16? I am sure the 195's should be slightly cheaper, right?

I was thinking of going with Falken 912's tires - I've heard these tires are decent and not expensive either.

Thanks!!

 

The issue with 195/55r16 tires (stock mini s size) is they are kinda limited on brands/makes..not many cars use the size. Other sizes that are within 1 or 2% size wise are cheaper with a wider selection....one suggestion, since you are already a bit eider than a stock cooper (the optional rim option), think carefuly before going too much wider...and when looking at atlernate sizes, pay close attention to the diameter...going to slightly smaller diameter will gove you more tourqe, but higher crusing rpm....the opposite with the slightly larger.

 

So, I can go with 205/50-16 tires instead of 195/55-16 then? There are a lot more options if I go with 205/55-16 tires instead of the original size.

Your thoughts?

Thank you!!

 

I just switched back from 205/55/16 to 195/55/16. The taller 205's killed acceleration a noticeable amount, and handled poorly by comparison. Granted the handling could be due to the model of tire, and not the size. They LOOKED much better, though, on my stock suspension car (filled the wheelwells nicely). If I were to go to a 205 again, I'd go with the 50 series. But I wouldn't, I prefer the stock handling.

 

Yeah, I was thinking going with 205/50/16 - Otherwise, I would stick with the original size (195/55/16).

Thanks for the feedback.

 

I should have mentioned that I intentionally went with a taller tire for looks (mostly) and more comfort. I knew it wouldn't be good for acceleration, but was taken aback at the difference. I didn't notice it at first, since the tires I replaced were baldies, courtesy of PO. The better ride and grip (not to be confused with handling) made it take a while for me to realize how much it impacted takeoff, but I had my suspicions. Going to a fresh set of 195s confirmed it.

 

Jat007...the website that can answer all your questions is right here...
www.tirerack.com