whats the difference between z-rated tires and h-rated tires? and are there any other rated tires?

 

From Tirerack.com:

Speed ratings signify the top speed of a tire under perfect conditions. Common speed ratings are:

N=87 MPH, 140km/h U=124 MPH, 200km/h
P=93 MPH, 150km/h H=130 MPH, 210km/h
Q=99 MPH, 160km/h V=149 MPH, 240km/h
R=106 MPH, 170km/h W=168 MPH, 270km/h
S=112 MPH, 180km/h Y=186 MPH, 300km/h
T=118 MPH, 190km/h Z=149 MPH, 240km/h and over

For all intents and purposes, an H rated tire should be fine for your car, but I have heard it argued that higher rated tires are 'better'. Better at what I don't know.

 

You need "H"rated tires for a maxima all other apply for faster cars like mustang and viper.....ect.

 

Some performance tires that Maxima owners put on their cars only come a Z rated tires.

 

Also keep in mind that better compounds are more expensive. Tires in my size (235/40/18) only come in Z, but I also paid for it when I got my tires a few weeks ago. $741.50 for tires WITH a discount from a friend! Having bigger wheels usually hurts the pocketbook.
-hype

 

I am informed that the higher the speed rating, the stiffer the sidewalls are. If you have a flat, your sidewalls will support the weight of your car better until you can bleed off speed and come to a stop. Stiffer sidewalls allow you to corner better, too. The downside? The stiffer sidewalls transmit road bumps more.

 

Those sidewall tires that you are talking about are runflat tires like goodyear eagle f1 but there also more expensive but at a bigger wheel and smaller profile tire chances are your going to get a flat.

 

Those sidewall tires that you are talking about are runflat tires like goodyear eagle f1 but there also more expensive but at a bigger wheel and smaller profile tire chances are your going to get a flat.