Wheel and tire dilemma –

[g36martin]

First post, so go easy on me…

I just got my 1973 240Z out of storage after 15 years and spent the last few weeks getting it ready for the road. It is still as beautiful as the day I parked it. All four tires are dry rotted, but still holding air. I’m at a crossroad for a restoration. I can’t seem to find the tires that were once in abundance. I currently have 215/60-14’s on a set of 1980 280ZX silver iron cross wheels. I can buy (locally) 195/70-14’s to fit those wheels or upgrade to a set of Rota RBs or Konig Rewinds. Any suggestions? 15”? 16”? I really like the look of the iron cross wheels on the car, but I’m not stubborn about it since they too are not original to the car. Do the upgrade wheels change the characteristics of the car?

[Z train]

Check availability of the 15's&16's tires first.That might make up your mind for you.

[Gary in NJ]

If you like your current rims, tirerack.com is showing 2 different BF Goodrich tires in that size, T/A (Performance All Season) & T/A Drag Radial (DOT Track).

Regarding new rims, there are more tire choices for 16" rims then there are for 15". You'll pay more for 16" rims and tires.

[d240zx2]

I ran the 5-slot 14" aluminum wheels for a long time and recently upgraded to Konig Rewind 16s. I've never been happier. Steering effort is a bit more, but not overly much. The look is great and handling seems to have improved a bit. I'd go with the 16s as tire selection is greater.

Good luck in your quest.

[jfa.series1]

You mention the Konig Rewinds and Rota RB's. Although they look a lot alike, be sure to check the available offsets on these two brands (and any others you consider). The Konig's sold by MSA are zero offset, just like the Datsun OE wheels. When I checked on the Rota's, I did not find them in zero offset. I think the smallest is +4mm, not sure how this might affect handling. Similar to d240zx2, I plan to go with the Rewind 15's. (Yeah I know, tire selection ...).

Here's a couple of good tools to help you thru the process.

http://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html

http://www.1010tires.com/WheelOffsetCalculator.asp

Jim

[beandip]

If you like the Rewinds , I would go for those in a 16''. You will find that you have a selection of tires for this size wheel. Especially if you want a performance tire.

Gary