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Anon

I have a 2003 Mazda Attenza, currently fitted with Dunlop SP Sport 8090 tyres.

I travel about 500km a week, half on the open road, half around town.

What tyre represents value for money?

Darren

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 23 April 2010

jbiddle

The reply is from the Manager of Product and field Engineering at South Pacific Tyres NZ Ltd;

With such a high percentage of time spent on the open road, tyres of good grip should be the principal focus with price a distant consideration, as cost is a commensurate indicator of wet grip and braking distance in this size tyre.

SP8090 is a high performing tyre delivering excellent wet grip, tracking, stability and lateral adhesion (it is a premium tyre).

The equivalent tyre available in the NZ market is the Dunlop SP SportMaxx, which is a direct replacement for the SP8090.

The Dunlop Direzza DZ101 is the next level down. It will deliver similar grip levels but slightly firmer ride and is marginally harsher.

The next level down is the Dunlop SP Sport 3000A. The tyre delivers good wet grip and ride comfort with a good tread life balance.

This is the lowest level tyre I would recommend for this customers application.