Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Wheels & Tires Falken Ziex ZE-512 - H or V?

So I'm in the market for some new tires.

I've been doing alot of research, and seem to think that these Falkens fit the bill. Looking on DiscountTireDirect, I see that the Falken Ziex ZE-512 come in a 225/50/16 size in both an H Rated and V Rated versions.

What is the difference in these tires? Can I expect anything different from the H rated over the V Rated? I understand that H Rated is limited to 130mph, and V is good to 149mph. However, my car will not be seeing these speeds, and therefore isn't part of the consideration.

Is the tire built differently on the V rated version? What differences would I expect to see?

The price difference is about $13/each, or $52 total. Thats a drop in the bucket, but if there is no real handling difference, why spend the money to have a V on my tire?

Thanks Guys.

I think you just answered your own question. I don't know of any real difference int he tires, and I doubt there is one that would affect you.

Recently got a set of the Falken 512's for my '96 SE. In my size there are a W rated tire (215/45/17). For what it's worth, I'd just get the least expensive tire in that brand and style; H, Z or W rating. Another site you might want to look at to buy them is Edge Racing. I got mine from them at a good price ($276 + $42 S&H) and their service was top notch.

Yeah... H should be fine. I put Ziex 512's on my wifes heavy Intrepid (235/60-16). Makes it handle tons better and they seem to last ok.

the v may have the sidewall stiffer a bit for higher speeds than the h. i would assume the tread pattern and tire compound would stay the same.