New Tyres Needed For My MK3.

[dragonheart]

As the title suggest i need a new set of tyres for my MK3 2.0se with 16" alloys.

Is there a rule of thumb regarding brands and tread patterns for the MX-5 or will any decent brand do?

Which works best with these cars, a directional or asymmetrical tyre.

Any recommendations welcome.

[Craikeybaby]

I've got Yokohamas on my 16" wheels, they are the original tyres from Mazda so would be a good starting point. I can't remember the model number off the top of my head, but can check it out later if you like.

[dragonheart]

I would appreciate that, thanks very much.

[rfn]

I've used Toyo T1-Rs on both my Mk3 and 3.5 - they've been great.

[Craikeybaby]

They are Yokohama Advan A11A

[dragonheart]

Visited my local tyre shop today to see what was available, they tried to sell me a set of Kumho's. They told me the Ecsta SPT KU31 or the Solus KH21 would be ideal for the MX5. I must admit i am tempted by the price but have delayed my decision hoping for some feedback on these tyres.

[ottiian]

I recently bought Avon ZV5s for my Mk3's 16" alloys. I had the OEM Yokohama Advans on previously, and these tyres are better - more grip (although possibly not a fair comparison due to the age of the Yokohamas, but still I would recommend them). You can get a set from Black circles no doubt, and only a little bit more than the Kumhos. HTH.

[stuart b]

Everyone will have a view on brands etc, but I can add something from experience.

I went with Contisport 3s (changed all 4). Only problem was getting the correct load rating. Most are in 91 rating (targeted at heavier cars such as the Mini and RCZ) but the MX5 should be on an 84. Garage swore blind they had correct tyres and then promptly fitted the wrong ones. "try 'em out and I'll change them if you don't like them." I tried and found the ride immediately busier and harsher even after coming from worn tyres. Went back and changed to some 84 load ratings and there was a worthwhile improvement in ride comfort with no other detriment.

Stuart

[SmilerFTM]

I had Toyo T1-R's and they were really good fun, changed to Kumho KU39's and didn't like them as much. Currently have Continental Conti Contactsport 3's and they are better than the Kumho's but not sure if I like them as much as the Toyo's. I'll be getting Uniroyal Rainsport2's next because apparently they are as good as the Toyo's in the dry and blow them away in the wet. I get a bit overly obsessed by tyres and I've spent far too long looking at what I can afford and what I'd like. I think if the Uniroyals are as good as people make out then I'll be sticking with those once I have them which won't be for a number of miles yet

[raveydave76]

stuart b said:

Everyone will have a view on brands etc, but I can add something from experience.

I went with Contisport 3s (changed all 4). Only problem was getting the correct load rating. Most are in 91 rating (targeted at heavier cars such as the Mini and RCZ) but the MX5 should be on an 84. Garage swore blind they had correct tyres and then promptly fitted the wrong ones. "try 'em out and I'll change them if you don't like them." I tried and found the ride immediately busier and harsher even after coming from worn tyres. Went back and changed to some 84 load ratings and there was a worthwhile improvement in ride comfort with no other detriment.

Stuart

Hi Stuart. Are you sure about that load rating on a Mk3? I thought it was supposed to be 87 rather than 84?

Cheers,
Dave

[Dewi Sant]

stuart b said:

Everyone will have a view on brands etc, but I can add something from experience.

I went with Contisport 3s (changed all 4). Only problem was getting the correct load rating. Most are in 91 rating (targeted at heavier cars such as the Mini and RCZ) but the MX5 should be on an 84. Garage swore blind they had correct tyres and then promptly fitted the wrong ones. "try 'em out and I'll change them if you don't like them." I tried and found the ride immediately busier and harsher even after coming from worn tyres. Went back and changed to some 84 load ratings and there was a worthwhile improvement in ride comfort with no other detriment.

Stuart

I had Continental Roadsport 3s fitted to my Mk3.5 in June, the load rating on them is 88w. I did initially have some concerns regarding the higher weight rating, but after a bit of research I discovered the difference between the weight handling capabilities between them and the 84w is a mere 60kg. After a long roadtrip in Europe and two runs up to Scotland so far this year, I can confirm they're the best tyres I've had on any of my MX5. They do feel a bit stiffer than the original Bridgestone 84w tyres but not to the point of being uncomfortable, my car is on slightly stiffer and lower Eibach springs anyway. The Contis are getting a bit softer now they've got a few 1000 miles on them and they have so much grip they're unbelievable in both dry and wet - of which we had a day or two during our ride through the Alps an Dolomites. I wouldn't have a problem with using them again.

D