6G Celicas Forums

Do you know how many RPM's your engine turns at 60 MPH? My '99 is actually a little higher then my previous Celica ('89) but still gets better mileage. Probably better aerodynamics. Let us know what you get on a trip.

Wow, fabulous! There is no other sports car so great looking and handling that comes even close to 44 mpg.

Recently got 41 mpg on a 400 mile trip driving 55-60 mph and have gotten 35-36 mpg on previous trips. Usually get low 30's when I check it with a mix of my normal city/highway driving. Anyone else check their gas mileage?

A few comments...

Personally, by switching to 205 50 15 I think you would lose more in handling from having the wrong geometry than you would gain from a wider choice of tires.

If you are on a budget, the Falken 512's ratings are almost as good as the 912's and were my second choice.

Regarding Kumho's, I looked in Consumer Reports Nov 2010 tire tests. Compared with the Falken 912's, the Ecsta ASX's are rated definitely not as bad as Falken's in snow and ice, but not quite as good in dry and wet handling and hydroplaning. Just like Richee3 said in his observations earlier.

Hope that helps.

It's on their website but I don't think that tire is available anymore, especially in 205-55 15.

Part II

Consumer Reports rates the Direzza's just average for hydroplaning, but for dry handling and braking are probably the best available in our size. The best handling tires I've ever owned are Dunlop D60-A2's, no longer available. What a tire! The best all around tire I've owned is Pirelli P400 (now called P4) but it's not available in 205-55 15. Both of those were on my '89 Celica ST. The Michelins were very good handling but stiff and noisy because they were so old. The Falken Ziex 912's seem fine so far, but I haven't driven them enough to rank their handling. I know they can't compare to my old Dunlops, but I will be happy if they are as good as the Pirelli's. You don't have many options for the 6-gen Celica, but a least you still have 2 good tires to choose from. Is there any snow in Chatanooga?
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I can't remember but I think they were Pilot's. The reason they had such good steering response was probably that the rubber had gradually hardened after 12 years. If you look on Michelin's web site they don't even make a 55 aspect ratio tire anymore. Tires Plus has no tires in the size 205-55 15. I did consider the Direzza's. They should handle great. About Consumer Reports tire tests, it is the November isssue, and it should be on the shelves now. Just keep in mind the tires at the top of the list were the best for all seasons including winter snow and ice. I bought my Falken's just for summer tires. They are drivable in winter but not very good. Direzza's would be summer only.

There's not many choices in that size anymore. Mediocre Bridgestone OEM replacements are about $180 each. If you change to a different size with more availability, then the diameter and the offset may change, affecting the handling, wear on the bearings, and speedometer accuracy. I was tired of the stiff noisy ride from the original Michelins, so I found the Falken Ziex 912's. They transformed the Celica into a smooth comfortable car with still good handling. Although not as tight steering as the Michelins, it was definitely worth it. Now I can hear the radio and talk to my passenger on the freeway. Consumer Reports has detailed test ratings on tires, usually in the October issue. See the issue that just came out, and then go to the tire manufacturer's website to see if a tire you like is available in 205-55 15's. (It's usually not!). By the way, the Falken's rate highly for hydroplaning. I love the car now.

It sounds like you just bought it. Lucky you! Do you get some proof or evidence that the mileage is original?

Rebuilt the engine or tranny yet?

46,000 miles, all original