Author Topic: Tyre recommendations for a 230SL  (Read 860 times)

Mike Knowler

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Tyre recommendations for a 230SL
« on: October 04, 2024, 10:17:59 »
Having taken my 230 on it’s first proper long run since restoration, the 910 mile round trip to the immensely enjoyable group event in Luxembourg, I encountered one or two almost underwear changing moments when my car simply lost traction on the very wet and slippery roads close to the venue. Having looked at my tyres, which were fitted as part of the restoration, I realised they were a bit of a cost cut.
Can anybody recommend a decent tyre suitable for good grip and comfort please?
Mike

VikDasor

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Re: Tyre recommendations for a 230SL
« Reply #1 on: October 04, 2024, 11:03:10 »
This is the original size on the 230SL's and possibly on all the W113 models.

185 R14

Link below
https://www.longstonetyres.co.uk/185-r14-michelin-mxv-whitewall.html

There are several companies that provide this size and are lots cheaper then the Michelins.
Vik Dasor
1966 W113 230SL
1988 R107 300SL
1999 R129 320SL
Porsche 911 997 C4S

Mike Knowler

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Re: Tyre recommendations for a 230SL
« Reply #2 on: October 04, 2024, 11:13:25 »
Thanks Vik, really helpful.
Mike

ghenne

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Re: Tyre recommendations for a 230SL
« Reply #3 on: October 04, 2024, 11:44:01 »
How old are your tires? If they are more than 5 years, they will not have the adhesion of new ones.

mdsalemi

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Re: Tyre recommendations for a 230SL
« Reply #4 on: October 04, 2024, 16:13:26 »
Can anybody recommend a decent tyre suitable for good grip and comfort please?

Blockley!

https://www.blockleytyre.com/make/mercedes/mercedes-280sl

I have the 185HR14 whitewall. We had a deal with them on discounts a while back, many here took advantage. Give them a call!
Michael Salemi
Davidson, North Carolina (Charlotte Area) USA
1969 280SL (USA-Spec)
Signal Red 568G w/Black Leather (Restored)
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Jowe

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Johan
04/1964 230SL, European, manual 4-sp, power steering, 050/050 white, black leather, Blaupunkt (SOLD)

Jack the Knife

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Re: Tyre recommendations for a 230SL
« Reply #6 on: October 06, 2024, 20:47:58 »
Vredestein makes a wonderful tire and the 185HR14 is what I use on my stock wheels. Also use their Pinzas for my G. If you don't want the whitewall look, I'd say they are the way to go. I believe Michelin and Pirelli likewise make a good-quality tire in our size, aside the (also good) whitewhall reproductions that Michael mentioned, but imo the Michelin/Pirelli options are overpriced compared to the really seriously good Vredestein. If you're considering sizing up or changing wheel dimensions, some people have had fine luck with 215 at most, but that depends on the condition of your car (assuming it's at proper height and whatnot) with an overall diameter of no more than about 26". I believe the stock overall diameter originally-originally, based on old threads around here where people measured NOS Firestone Phoenix and the like, is perhaps a hair above 25". Lots of threads about here on "tire nirvana," as well as the information in the tech guide, though I think it could be a bit more comprehensively-updated with all the options people have found over the years.
1964 230SL
2015 G550

rwmastel

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Rodd

Did you search the forum before asking?
2017 C43 AMG
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Mike Knowler

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Re: Tyre recommendations for a 230SL
« Reply #8 on: October 06, 2024, 22:30:38 »
They’re four years old but not a well known brand.  They have plenty of tread left but I now have little confidence in them.
Mike

Jack the Knife

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Re: Tyre recommendations for a 230SL
« Reply #9 on: October 06, 2024, 22:53:40 »
This?
https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=Vredestein&tireModel=Sprint+Classic&sidewall=Blackwall&partnum=8HR4SC&tab=Sizes

Those are the ones. I just drove my car a bit spiritedly around the neighborhood after a rain (trying to shake down a few squeaks since some changes), and they performed as well as a tire should. Price is decent, too, I think.
1964 230SL
2015 G550