I'm thinking of buying the Kumho Ecsta Supra 712's in 225/50-16. Tirerack has two versions: one is V rated, the other is W rated. They have treadwear ratings of 340 and 280 respectively. The price is almost identical. Is there any noticible performance difference between the two if I don't plan on going more than 115 mph? I guess what I am asking is whether the two tread materials will handle differently. I would prefer to get the V's since they are 340 treadwear, but if they handle a lot worse than the W's, I don't want them. Anyone have any ideas about this?

 

The W rated tire should handle better at the limit i.e. track and AutoX use, but will also wear faster as indicated by the treadwear rating. If you really want the extra stickiness for racing then go with the Ws, but if you're more interested in the longevity of the tire the Vs are still a good tire. I can't give a great comparison, but my Z rated Nitto NT555s (235/40/18) stick much better than my Kumho Ecsta Supra 712s (215/55/16). I also prefer to know that I can safely travel 130+ when needed
-hype

 

how much are those nittos per tire?

 

$150 or so
-hype

 

i dunno but hitting a pot hole @ 130= bye bye 18 inch rims

 

Very true, but I travel on I-35 between Dallas and Austin almost weekly, so I know the road very well. The strip just north of Hillsboro is straight as an arrow and is well paved as well
-hype