Modern vs Classic Tyres

relistan

Member
My 1966 P6 has some pretty old and cracked tyres on it and I'd like to get some new rubber on there ASAP. I really like how the steering handles with the classic Dunlop radials (165SR14) that are on there, despite the condition of the rubber. Replacements of similar design and tread are pretty expensive (e.g. Pirelli Cinturato CA67 or CN36). How much do modern tyres change the steering feel of the car? I seem to be able to get Barum Brillantis 2 tyres in the original size for about €55 or in 185/70/14 for about €51. I'm sure there are plenty of other options in that price range as well. I have to park in a spot that requires a fair bit of agility to get the car into and am not excited about increasing the steering effort massively, so that is also a consideration.

Advice appreciated. Thanks!

Karl
 
If you keep the original dimension, i would suggest the Falken SN832 .
I have them for a year in the Austin, and despite that they are modestly priced, i am surprised at how smooth and quiet they feel. They also appear to be rather sticky to the tarmac, so i can see no drawbacks.
In the Rover i used to run Michelin Energy Savers and although they seemed OK when brand new, i was rather disappointed quite soon.
Mind you that with new tyres the steering effort will always be reduced. So you don't have to fear anything.
 
be careful relistan if your old tyres are cracking I once see a cracked tyre explode not nice for the guy who was stood next to it at the time
 
I have just replaced Vredstein Sprint Classics on the front of my car with Hankook Optimos, and haven't noticed any difference in the handling.
 
Difference is usually with the shoulders. Modern tyres are square whereas classic have rounded shoulders. Modern patterns will give you more ultimate grip, older style will give you super predictable handling in that they'll scream well before then let go.
 
I have just read through loads of tyre comments and experiences.

i will be looking for 5 tyres for my TC soon. I have looked at sourcing original ca67 cinturato’s but at £560 for 4 I had a sharp intake of breath.

back in the day, before I could legally drive, I remember that my father’s first p6 ( GNY 485C ) was fitted with Ca67’s

Following a puncture whilst holidaying in Cornwall, he was unable to source a Pirelli, so had a Dunlop fitted. My father said there was a noticeable difference in steering weight.

when I was allowed to drive, I was given this car, but could sffotd the original tyres, but being a big old bruthe I had not issues with the weight.

years later I remember reading an article on the design of the P6, where it was claimed that the first thing considered after the shell design, was the use of Pirelli Cinterato tyres, as they were ideal for the revolutionary suspension design.
Back in the day, 165r14 was a big tyre.

Nostalgia over, what modern equivelants offer the same light handling as the original spec tyres?

I know there will be many views, but as I have not driven a P6 since 1987, and have had power steered cars ever since, I am looking for a degree of lightness to the wheel, coupled with excellent handing, and as low a road noise as is relatively practical.

thanks in advance
 
I had a set of Toyo tyres on Rover and they were nice initially but two de laminated, then I couldn't find any 14 165 80 so fitted two 165 70 wondered if I was doing the right thing, anyway he drives O K although the motor will be reving a little more as I figure that the circumference is about 60mm less. They were very well priced so imagine the have come from China.
John.
 
Michelin offer classic tyres for the Australian market, but they are exceptionally expensive. I sought a price a year of so ago out of curiosity, $560 per tyre, say 280 Pounds each :oops: I wasn't planning to buy any, just doing some research.
XAS | Michelin Classic

I use Maxxis MAP3 tyres, and they are very good indeed. Quiet, smooth, excellent grip in wet and dry, good mileage and they offer a nice feel. Price is around $135 each, say 68 Pounds each.

Ron.
 
always have trouble getting tyres for my V8 seems easy if you want 'van' Tyres but car radial seems not so easy. no idea effect changes of tyre as I dont have power steering and can't afford to replace tyres with such low mileages they get .( around 1500 per year at moment) have to see if I can get replacement wheels at some stage that will allow better choice of tyres.
 
Right, that web page link has converted itself to a Blackcircles support page. Sorry. Hankook Optimo is the tyre, in 185/80 R14 to suit P6 V8.

And now I've tried the link, and actually it does take you where it was meant to.
 
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