When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
If you're running a 15" wheel and want RWL tires, you are somewhat limited to BF Goodrich or Cooper tires. There may be some other off-brands, but if it's a daily driver going cheap probably isn't the best idea.
Also.....if fuel economy is an issue, installing large diameter tires thay will not chafe on the wheel wells will help you avoid the gas stations. Tire diameter/RPM charts are available on the Forum.
If you're running a 15" wheel and want RWL tires, you are somewhat limited to BF Goodrich or Cooper tires. There may be some other off-brands, but if it's a daily driver going cheap probably isn't the best idea.
Yep, I'm running the stock wheels. I have been looking around the net and was surprised at how limited the selection is. It appears that the C3 stock tire size is now mostly a truck tire and tread. The tires I have now are almost unsafe because of the way they wander at lower speeds. Most of my drive is on back roads in moderate shape, it will keep you awake for sure.
Falcon (I had Falcons on my Alero, I LOVED them,,, but that was a modern car with a modern suspension) appears to be making a tire that fits, but the tread looks blocky and aggressive so I'm back to Tramlining. I called tire rack, they were of little help, (the rep I got sounded like she needed a big cup of coffee.) Maybe I call them again and see if a different cube rings.
I'd like to spend money on rubber and not rims. I personally don't care for the looks of most aftermarket rimes, but that may be my only route.
Just going to Tire Racks web site will tell you that in 225/70R15 they only have BF Goodrich, General, and Kuhmo.
In 255/60R15 they only have BF Goodrich.
Just going to Tire Racks web site will tell you that in 225/70R15 they only have BF Goodrich, General, and Kuhmo.
In 255/60R15 they only have BF Goodrich.
Yep, not much to choose from. I have not had allot of luck with Goodrich in the past.
Yeah, there isn't much selection out there. Regretfully times have changed and the C3's run sizes now relegated to mostly truck tires.
Another option is to go larger diameter, but still stick with the rally rims. You can get steel ones in 16's or aluminum ones in 17's. I have no idea as to the quality of these rims since I haven't personally used them, but they are out there. Good luck in your search.
Yeah, there isn't much selection out there. Regretfully times have changed and the C3's run sizes now relegated to mostly truck tires.
Another option is to go larger diameter, but still stick with the rally rims. You can get steel ones in 16's or aluminum ones in 17's. I have no idea as to the quality of these rims since I haven't personally used them, but they are out there. Good luck in your search.
She's getting a clutch and trans work this winter, just thinking ahead and trying to decide on rolling gear. I have Goodyears on it now, mild truck treads... they just growl and wander. Very di$appointing.
In 255/60/15 (the most popular size around here) the Coopers are the most popular. They are rated about the same as the BFG's, but can be had for about 1/2 the price if you can catch a good sale. PepBoys also have their own brand (made by Cooper with a different tread pattern) and also have good sales. I believe that MT's are also Cooper (also look a little different and priced higher).
I went with the Coopers, black side out. They are working fine.
There is a little more available in 225/70/15 as stated above.
I have seen the Mickey Thompsons advertised in Jegs, has anyone tried them?
I have those tires in 235/60-15 on the front of my '69. I have their drag radials on the back. I'll never autocross this car but I do get out and run the local hills & curves- great driving roads surround me. They do very well in that type of use. If you want to get serious about running your Vette hard you'll want to follow Jason's advice.
your fighting a up hill battle, go for 17" now because eventually that will be your only choice.
YUP, found that out 20 years ago, put on '89 vette wheels, 17x9.5 but trick is to keep same wheel centerline and make them fit....yet another topic covered a lot in other threads.....
From: Graceland in a Not Correctly Restored Stingray
Not suggesting the OP consider them for his DD, but FWIW to anyone searching for a 15" tire that isn't afraid of the twisty bits Avon's CR6ZZ is worth mention. Basically a road legal vintage racing tire, available with V rating in 245/60R15, 275/55R15 & 255/50R15. I haven't run them myself, just sharing the info for those who might like to know.
Your best bet as others have mentioned is finding a 17/18 rim that you can live with and will fit a C3. The tires for the 15 inch OEM rims are mostly junk and not even up to the performance standards of tires that are just about on any new car today. I went with SLP 17's (no longer made, ZR1 rims) many years ago on my 78 since I was fed up with the S/T rated 255/60/15 tires available for the C3's and have never looked back...255/45/17 ZR ultra high performance summer only tires. These tires transformed the ride, handling, and steering of my 78...They ride MUCH better than the old BFG 255/60/15 Radial TA's and the handling/steering response is superb.
Last edited by jb78L-82; Oct 30, 2015 at 06:10 AM.
Tires...
