In the 1980s, Goodyear introduced a different breed of tire inspired by Formula One racing tires. The design of the new tire was radically different than the standard passenger car version of the day. The new iteration had a low profile but stiff sidewall, steel belts covered by nylon caps, and large tread blocks for a dry-traction grip. The tire earned a new V sidewall rating, which meant that it would stay intact at speeds up to 149 mph. With that, the high-performance tire was introduced to the American driving public.

Performance Tires Right for Car

(Pixabay / dimitrisvetsikas1969)

Several manufacturers introduced the high-performance tires, or their variants, on the cars they produced. The wide use of the new tires resulted in new speed ratings such as “H” for speed up to 130 mph, “S” for 112 mph, and “Z” for over 149 mph.

Drivers loved the high-performance tires because they allowed for better handling, steering, cornering, and stopping. They also matched the newest anti-lock brake technology.

Not everyone was fully satisfied, however. They complained of stiffer rides and felt that the tires wore out too fast. They also had misgivings about the price. Regular passenger tires at that time cost about $160 for a four-tire set, but the high-performance tires reached up to $700 per set.

Taking the lead from the first high-performance tires produced by Goodyear, other tire manufacturers began developing their own iterations, giving rise to touring, ultra-high performance, cosmetic performance, and touring performance tires. Many types of vehicles, including family minivans, began to come equipped with performance tires to improve safety, comfort and engine efficiency.

Visit Utah tire shops to find the best tires to fit your car. If you are looking for tires in Bountiful, visit top-recommended Bountiful tire shops to see the best in performance tires. Note, however, that performance tires are not advised when temperatures begin to dip. Winter roads are very unpredictable, challenging the traction of regular passenger or high-performance tires. Winter tires or snow tires, on the other hand, are designed to handle the combination of cold temperatures, ice, and snow. When you see snowflakes in the forecast, look for tires at a Bountiful shop, getting recommendations from the experts about the best match for your budget and vehicle.

Going on for a perfect getaway is a fun-filled experience with a long drive with some friends. Have you checked your car if it’s ready as you are? Visit a tire shop and find the tires suitable for the road you are about to take. This infographic will give you some tips.

All Season Tires vs. Performance Tires

 

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