The Mercedes-Benz R107 (1971–1989) is a timeless classic, known for its luxurious road presence and engineering excellence. While maintaining its mechanical components is crucial, selecting the right tires is equally important for safety, handling, and performance. Tires impact everything from ride comfort and fuel efficiency to braking distance and cornering stability.
Mercedes-Benz, in compliance with the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966, provides essential consumer information regarding treadwear, traction, and temperature ratings to help owners make informed decisions. This guide breaks down tire quality grading, ensuring your R107 remains a pleasure to drive while meeting modern safety standards.
Understanding Tire Quality Ratings
All passenger car tires must conform to federal safety requirements and provide performance ratings in three key areas:
1. Treadwear Rating: How Long Will Your Tires Last?
Treadwear ratings measure a tire’s durability and longevity under controlled conditions on a government test course.
- A tire rated 150 is expected to last 1.5 times longer than a tire rated 100 under similar conditions.
- Actual tire lifespan varies depending on driving habits, maintenance, road conditions, and climate.
For R107 owners, choosing a higher treadwear rating (above 300) can improve longevity, while performance-oriented tires with lower treadwear ratings provide better grip but wear faster.
2. Traction Rating: Stopping Power on Wet Surfaces
The traction grade indicates a tire’s ability to stop on wet asphalt and concrete, ensuring safe braking performance in rainy conditions.
- Grade A – Highest traction, best for superior grip in wet conditions.
- Grade B – Moderate traction, suitable for normal driving.
- Grade C – Lowest traction, may perform poorly on wet surfaces.
For an R107, especially if driven in wet climates, selecting Grade A tires enhances safety and handling.
⚠ Note: Traction ratings are based only on straight-line braking and do not measure cornering performance.
3. Temperature Rating: Heat Resistance and Safety
Tires generate heat due to friction. The temperature rating measures a tire’s ability to withstand heat buildup and dissipate heat, preventing blowouts and premature wear.
- Grade A – Best heat resistance, suitable for high-performance or warm climates.
- Grade B – Moderate heat resistance, standard for many passenger cars.
- Grade C – Meets minimum legal requirements but may overheat in extreme conditions.
For classic R107 models, tires with a Grade A or B rating are ideal, as these vehicles are often driven at highway speeds or in warm climates where heat buildup can become an issue.
⚠ Warning: Underinflation, excessive speed, or overloading increases heat buildup, leading to potential tire failure. Always maintain proper tire pressure and avoid excessive loads.
Choosing the Right Tires for Your R107
When selecting tires for your Mercedes-Benz R107, consider the following factors:
✔ OEM Tire Sizes: The R107 originally used 14-inch or 15-inch tires, depending on the model year and trim level.
✔ Modern Tire Replacements: Many owners upgrade to larger, high-performance radial tires for improved handling.
✔ Classic vs. Performance Tires: If originality is key, opt for OEM-style tires. If better grip and handling are desired, consider modern high-performance touring or summer tires.
Recommended Tire Brands for R107:
- Michelin Defender T+H – Long-lasting touring tire with excellent wet grip.
- Pirelli P4 Four Seasons Plus – Great all-season option for classic cars.
- Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 – High-performance tire with top traction ratings.
- Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS – Sporty handling with superior temperature resistance.
- Vredestein Sprint Classic – Designed for vintage Mercedes models.
Final Thoughts
The R107’s handling, safety, and ride quality are directly influenced by the tires you choose. Selecting the right treadwear, traction, and temperature-rated tires ensures optimal performance, longevity, and safety. Always refer to Mercedes-Benz recommendations, maintain proper tire inflation, and replace tires as needed to keep your classic roadster running at its best.
By equipping your R107 with the right high-quality, well-rated tires, you ensure a smooth, safe, and enjoyable driving experience, whether cruising the highways or enjoying a spirited weekend drive.
