Z-Rated tires are obviously the best tires out there...

But I noticed recently that there are other tires out there with even higher top speed rating (ie - Y-Rated & X-Rated). I know a lot of people buy Z-Rated simply for top speed, but it seems like there are other benifits besides just top speed. Would it make sense to use Z-Rated on a stock Civic? Would it offer better braking & handling than the cheaper V-Rated?

(will be used with stock civic with 17" wheels & Eibach lowering springs)

 

im not completely certain, but my guess is that Z-rated tires must have a sticker compound than a tire rated lower than the Z-rated. Otherwise, theres no way the Z-rated tire could handle a given top speed compared to a lower rated one. So I guess that the Z-rated sticker tire will have better traction in general, and less threadlife.

 

Usually the higher the rating the stiffer the side walls. So yes, stiffer is better for turnig allowing the tire to maintain more contact with the ground.

 

The z rating means a higher quaility construction as well. You get more tire for your money and they perform better.

 

I think a lot of times Z tires are stickier than others, but not necessarily. That rating only has to do with the top speed they can handle. I guess as you drive faster, waves go through the tire, formed from the fact that it deforms where it touches the pavement. Speed rating ensures that as these waves cycle faster, the tire can withstand them. I think as HS killa and voltronR34 said, side wall stiffness, and I imagine quality and the materials used are important factors. This is what I remember from some article i read....it kind of makes sense...