Dunlop SP 9000 vs. SP 9090

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Apr 12, 2005 | 04:37 PM

Jamie_NH

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Dunlop SP 9000 vs. SP 9090

I'm looking to replace my SP 9000s and am considering the 9090s based upon better traction, handling, and noise ratings. Does anyone have any opinions on the 9090s vs. the 9000s?

Thanks in advance for any advice.
Jamie

Apr 12, 2005 | 05:00 PM

eric strauss

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From: Los Angeles

Dunlop SP 9000 vs. SP 9090

Both are similar, although the 8080's and 9090's have a higher silica content in order to improve wet traction. For some time, these tires were OEM spec on BMW E36 M3's (225/45-17's were front fitment for the staggered configuration). I have had one set of 9000's, two sets of 9090's and one set of 8000's - all from the Tire Rack and mounted on a Honda Prelude, Saab Aero, BMW 3-series and on a 2001 Audi tt 225hp. Living in New England (Cape Cod), I loved the balance between wet and dry performance. They were extremely quiet.

My reservation about Dunlops is that they have consistently taken a lot of weight to balance - sometimes requiring a remount to find the right counterbalalnce between wheel and tire. I find this to be awkward (too say the least) in a Z-rated tire. There are lots of great wet/dry summer rubber out there now and I will probably not return to the Dunlops - the rim flange protector is a great plus however, and was what originally attracted me to the tire in the early 1990's - they pioneered the road rash protection bulge. Now, most tires have that feature.

Best wishes
eric