I’d be grateful to hear some advice or experience from anyone who is using the new Hankook Ventus Z212. I’m using them on a ’87 325iS on 16X7 wheels in the 225/45 size.

I spent the weekend autocrossing and never really felt I had the grip I wanted. They just didn’t seem to hook up. I started with the tire pressure at 40 in front and 35 in the rear. I was very frustrated and kept lowering the TP through the weekend. I ended up at 37.5 in front and 28 in and 28.5 in the rear. The first figures are cold, the last warm. However, it was a cool (mid 60’s) day and the tires never got very warm. I also kept playing with the rebound damping throughout the day, and finally ended up about .75 turn from full hard on Koni Yellow’s.

My last run, with the tires at the lowest pressures was nearly three seconds faster than the next best run.

So, I’d really like to hear from anyone who is using these tires, especially if they feel that they have figured out how much pressure to use.

Thanks,

Joe Stephenson

Did you see any rolling over at all? If not, I wouldn't worry about running lower pressures. I run them typically around 32 all around on the Miata (195/60x14), but I haven't had a chance to autocross the 212s much yet.

The recent GRM article seemed to think they'd be faster if they were shaved, and I'd agree they do have a lot of rubber on them. But grip is pretty good.