Which one the two tires are truly better? I've searched on hondatech and foudn that nsxtasy recommends these 80% of the time.

I'm looking for something that is great in summer with good dry and wet traction as well as quiet road noise. both in 215/40/16 size


http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tests/...lay.jsp?ttid=4

 

"Better" is subjective ...

Neither of them is really great, but they're both a good tire. Almost exactly the same too.
The Hankook has a slightly higher treadwear rating, but I find the Kumho to be softer and more comfortable.

If I were you, I'd buy whichever one I could get a better deal on. If they're the same price, then I'd choose the Hankook to get more life out of the tire. I don't mind sacrificing a small amount of comfort for longer driving time.

 

is it safe to buy new tires from production year 2008?

 

Yes, but inspect them carefully before you buy them. Their safety depends on how they were stored. Make sure they don't look "dried out" & check them for tiny cracks. If they were stored properly then they'll be fine (indoor, cool, dry). If they were stored badly, they'll be ruined (outside, hot, moist).