Hello All,

I have a 1996 850 GLT wagon that I bought new. At the time the car came with Michelins Energy MVX4 tires that were "V" rated. Initially, I replaced these with another set of Michelins also rated at "V". Eventually, to save money and to enjoy a longer tread life, I switched to "H" rated tires.

Its been so long ago that I made the transition that I can't recall if there was any big difference in handling and length of treadwear. I'll be in the market for another set of tires soon, and I was contemplating whether I should incur the additional cost and go back to the "V" rated tires with the supposed shorter treadwear but better handling characteristics.

I would welcome any thoughts or suggestions on whether to stick with the "H" rated tires or go back to the "V" rated. Thanks!

Hugh

In 2003 or so I needed new tires for the '95 855T. It had a set of 16" Bridgestone RE730s on OEM wheels. Even buying from Tirerack.com I was looking at over $500 for a set of four rough-riding, directional, noisy tires.

On Ebay I lucked into a new set of 15" V70 pull-offs for about $300. Not a scratch on them. Then, for $40 apiece, I bought a set of four Kumho all-season passenger tires in 195/60x15 that were excellent. Quiet, light-steering and I never missed or needed the performance of the 730s.

Last year I replaced them with another set of Kumho Ecsta in a 205/55X15 for a little more aggressive look. Same great experience with ride, quiet, traction etc. They were about $45 each. Both sets of Kumhos were H rated.

I ordered direct from the website and had my corner garage install them. During one of the orders I made the mistake of calling and the salesguy wouldn't process my order because by his book the Volvo required V rated tires and he couldn't sell me H. I hung up and in 10 minutes I had the order completed on the website.

V or H? My experience after over 50,000 miles on H rated 15" tires on my 855T is that it's a non-issue.

Erwin

(edit) Just want to add that I quickly sold the OEM 16" wheels on ebay and covered the cost of my conversion in one sale. Also, with the 195/60x15 Kumhos I regularly saw 28mpg on the highway.

The primary difference is the sidewall stiffness, i.e. ride and handling. Shopping by price only buy H. Shopping for handling buy V or even Z.

(Some tire shops will not install H rated tires on a car that was originally fitted with V rated.)

I would say the issue is handling, not speed. Over the years on various cars I had V or H rated tires and as a generality the V were more fun, but definitely did not last as long. For me the price is a barrier and I have bought more H recently. That said, the letter rating is no guarantee of a tire whose performance will meet your taste. The dynamometer tests which determine the rating are not the same as actual driving.

MOST Americans have no need for V rated tires, H being suitable for those of us who never exceed 100mph. If, and when, you sell your car, make sure the next owner is aware that you have H rated mounted.

Klaus
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Just driving a 1998 V70R :)