R17 P Zero's no longer made

[Jag4Ever]

I've a 1998 XK8 with 17inch wheels, and Pirelli P Zero Asimmetrico 245/50 99Y all round. However the rears are now 14 years old (the fronts were replaced less than 10 years ago) and I know I should replace them. However Pirelli no longer make the tyre in this size and I can't find any NOS.

I've been in contact with Jaguar who suggest Continental ContiSportContact 5 in 255/45, but I prefer the look of the Michelin Pilot Sport 4, mainly for their quieter noise rating.

Given neither Jaguar's recommendation nor the Michelin's have been made with the car in mind or the Jaguar's input, is there any good reason I should heed Jaguar's recommendation?

And does anyone have any experience of both tyres to be able to compare the two?

Many thanks
David

[Lucky]

Before you give up on the Pirellis give Gareth Williams at the Pirelli Performance Centre in Burton-on-Trent a call - 01283 525523. He may just have a few tucked away in a dark corner.

Be aware that a number of the alternative tyres of the right size are run-flats for BMWs, and some have different speed/load ratings.

Good luck.

[andypryce]

Michelin and continental both quality tyres, personally I would go with the cheapest.

[Jag4Ever]

Brilliant - thank you for the tip Lucky - I've spoken to Gareth and he's managed to find me some young "over age" stock, so I can keep Macavity on his originally specified shoes for a little while longer!

Thanks again
David

[Lucky]

Don't forget the JEC Pirelli tyre offer - worth £30 for 2 17" tyres, £70 for 4.

https://jec.org.uk/benefits

Not sure where you live but it's worth going to Burton-on-Trent to get them fitted if you can. They did an alignment check for me after they fitted the tyres.