Tyres for Flavia coupe

[petewo]

Hi All
I'm running ageing Michelin XZX 165 SR 15 tyres on my Flavia coupe (5 1/2 JK x 15 steel wheels), they need replacing. Will a modern tyre improve handling? If so which tyre would be recommended?
thanks
Peter

[1,6 HF]

You can go with a wider, lower-profile modern tire, but IMO I'd stick with the original size tyre, as this will give you the best balance between outright grip and steering response.

So I'd recommend the 165HR-15 Michelin XAS. Michelin has reissued the XAS, which may be the best 80-series tire ever made; they'll really outperform the XZX, even when new. XAS are pricey, but the cost really gets spread out over the miles/years, and after the initial price pain wears off, you'll be really glad you went for the better tires.

[millhouse]

Does anyone know of any other make of tyre to fit the Flavia Coupé? I am in South Africa and Michelin appears not to supply the classic range here...

[1,6 HF]

Both Longstone and Vintage Tyre in the UK will ship anywhere. Back when I bought my XAS, it was cheaper to get them shipped from the UK than to buy them in the US. And at the moment, Longstone (no connection &c.) appears to have free international shipping promotion: http://www.longstonetyres.co.uk/page/Special_Offer

[pbharcourt]

Hi Peter,
Have a look at these as well : http://www.vintagetyres.com/search?qs=%5B165R15%5D

[millhouse]

Thanks, has a look at longstone, and i think that will work for my Betas too...