Is a higher or lower tire speed rating letter better?
2 Answers
Tire speed ratings are not necessarily better when higher. The specific reasons are as follows: 1. Generally speaking, the further back the letter representing the tire speed rating, the better the performance of the tire, and the higher the price. 2. Tires with different speed ratings have different applicable ranges. P—T rated tires (maximum speed 150—190km/h) are suitable for small and compact cars, U—V rated tires (maximum speed 200—240km/h) are suitable for mid-to-high-end cars, while the best-performing W—Z tires, which can withstand maximum speeds between 240—300km/h, are typically used in large luxury cars and supercars.
I've always believed that higher tire speed rating letters are better because larger letters, such as Y or Z, indicate that the tire can withstand higher driving speeds, up to around 300 kilometers per hour. Safety is the most important reason—when accelerating to overtake on the highway or dealing with emergencies, a higher speed rating means the tire's material and structure are more robust, effectively reducing the risk of a blowout. It provides an extra safety buffer; even if you usually drive at only 120 km/h, you'll feel more secure when encountering bumpy roads or high loads. My personal experience is not to skimp by choosing letters that are too low, like T or H, unless your car is just an ordinary family vehicle and rarely goes on highways. Ensuring it matches the vehicle's recommended values can add points to driving safety. In short, although larger letters may cost more, they're worth prioritizing.
