mis3

I use Pirelli Snowsport 210 as winter tires for my 2004 CLK320 Coupe. I just replaced both rear tires last year. When I changed my tires this summer, I noticed that the rear right tire was worn quite bad due to a bad alignment. The other 3 tires were very good.

Since I travel to Montreal quite often, I need good winter tires. While I was looking for the Pirelli 210, I was told that this tires had been discontinued. I was suggested to buy the Pirelli 210 Sottozero. I did my research and found that these 210 Sottozero are not too good.

I did call around and some stores said they were able to order the Snowsport 210 for me. In my mind, since these tires have been discontinued, I would be getting some old stock. Do you see any problem?

Because of the sizes (F: 205-55-16, R:225-50-16), I really have not much choices. The other choices are Blizzak WS-60 and Michelin X-Ice. Should I just replace the 2 rear tires and keep the Snowsport 210 in front?

Luke@tirerack

While they are not discontinued there will be very few coming into the US as the SottoZero is it's repalcement. Contrary to your research the SottoZero is quite good but, also with very limited availablity.

If you are forced to mix and match your tires this season follow these rules:

#1.) make sure all of the tires have the same speed ratings
#2.) match them in pairs (not three W210 and 1 something else)
#3.) keep those pairs of tires on the same axle/end of the car (fronts and rears)

any other questions?

mis3

I called a few local stores (Toronto) and they told me that these Snowsport 210 has been discontinued. ???

I read it somewhere that the shelf life of a new tire is 5 years. Not sure if this is correct. I am concerned that if they manage to get a tSnowsport 210 for me, the tire will be too old!