Street Muscle: Choosing The Right Tires For Drag Racing Performance

best street tires for muscle car drag racing

If you're looking to get the most out of your muscle car at the drag strip, choosing the right street tires is crucial. While drag racing tires are designed specifically for racing, they may not be suitable for street use. This is why it's important to select tires that offer the best of both worlds: exceptional performance on the drag strip, while also providing safe and reliable traction on the street. In this article, we'll explore the key features to look for when choosing street tires for your muscle car, as well as provide recommendations for some of the best options on the market. So, whether you're just rolling to the drag strip or racing your muscle car, you can do so with confidence and style.

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M.T. Drag Front Tire

Source: m.media-amazon.com

The M.T. Drag 40480 ET Street Front Tire is a high-performance tire designed for muscle cars and street rods. It features an ultra-lightweight design, tubeless construction, and is suitable for high-speed use. This tire is the perfect complement to the ET Drag drive tires, providing a complete race tire package.

Specification Description
Brand Mickey Thompson
Season Year-Round
Tread Type Non-Directional
Ply Rating 4-Ply or 6-Ply
Dimensions 26.8 x 26.8 x 6 inches
Weight 11 pounds
Construction Radial
Features Ultra-lightweight, reduced rolling resistance, high-speed capability, tubeless
Vehicle Compatibility Early and late-model muscle cars, hot rods, and street rods
ISO Metric Size 680/60R17
Part Number 250735
Price $296.99

Reasons to buy Mickey Thompson ET Street Front Tires:

  • Ultra-lightweight design for reduced rolling resistance and improved performance.
  • Tubeless construction for easy installation and maintenance.
  • Compliments ET Drag drive tires for a complete race tire package.
  • Suitable for high-speed use, making them ideal for racing applications.
  • Available in standard sizes to fit a range of muscle cars and street rods.

Reasons to avoid Mickey Thompson ET Street Front Tires:

  • The specialized nature of these tires may not be suitable for daily driving or regular street use.
  • The price may be higher compared to standard tires due to their performance-oriented design.
  • The availability of replacement tires and the potential for increased wear and tear due to their lightweight construction.
  • May not be suitable for all weather conditions, especially in regions with harsh winters.
  • Some vehicles may require modifications to accommodate the tire size and specifications.
Compare to other products

The M.T. Drag 40480 ET Street Front Tire is a specialty tire designed for racing and high-performance driving. Its unique features include an ultra-lightweight design, which reduces rolling resistance and improves acceleration. It is also designed to complement the ET Drag drive tires as a complete race tire package.

Compared to other racing tires, this product seems to be well-regarded for its specific purpose, with no apparent drawbacks. However, it is important to note that this tire is not intended for everyday use or typical driving conditions, as it is tailored for high-speed racing environments.

In terms of price, the M.T. Drag tire is positioned at a higher range, likely due to its specialized nature and performance capabilities. It is important to consider that this tire is designed for a very specific audience and use case, and thus, the price is reflective of that.

Overall, this tire seems to be a good choice for those seeking high-performance racing tires, especially when paired with the complementary ET Drag drive tires. It is always recommended to carefully consider the intended use and specific requirements before purchasing specialty tires such as these.

For whom it is recommended

The M.T. Drag 40480 ET Street Front Tire is designed for muscle cars and street rods. It would be a good fit for owners of Camaros, Mustangs, Corvettes, and older hot rods and street rods who are looking for a complete race tire package. The tire is also suitable for high-speed use and has a tubeless construction.

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Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S Racing Radial Tire, 15-20 inch fitments

Source: m.media-amazon.com

Get ready to burn some rubber with the Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S tire! This high-performance street-to-strip radial tire is perfect for those who want to take their car's performance to the next level. With a directional tread type, 4-ply rating, and a load capacity of 176 pounds, these tires mean business. Whether you're racing or just cruising around, the Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S will give you the traction and stability you need. So, why wait? Order now and experience the thrill of high-performance tires!

Specification Description
Tags
Brand Mickey Thompson
Season Summer
Performance High Performance
Car Type Racing
Size 305/45/17
Section Width 305 Millimeters
Load Capacity 176 Pounds
Tread Type Directional
Maximum Pressure 5E+1 Pound per Square Inch
Features Radial Construction, R2 Compound
Price $372.29
Rating 4.6 out of 5 stars (28 ratings)

Reasons to buy the Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S tire:

  • High performance: This tire is designed for street and strip use and provides excellent performance, as indicated by some reviews mentioning its ability to launch like a rocket ship and stable performance at high speeds.
  • Suitable for racing: With a performance rating of high and a car type of racing, this tire is suitable for those seeking a tire for racing purposes.
  • Directional tread type: The directional tread provides improved traction and handling, especially in wet conditions.
  • Amazon's Choice: This product has been designated as an Amazon's Choice item, indicating that it is highly rated, well-priced, and available to ship immediately.
  • Positive reviews: The tire has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, with many customers praising its performance, fit, and appearance.

Reasons to avoid buying the Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S tire:

  • Limited stock: According to the product information, there are only 12 units left in stock, which may be a concern for those needing to purchase multiple tires or requiring immediate availability.
  • Not Prime eligible: This item does not qualify for free Prime shipping, which may be a disadvantage for Amazon Prime members expecting faster delivery.
  • No video demonstrations: The product listing does not include any video demonstrations or reviews, which may make it challenging for potential buyers to fully evaluate the product.
  • Defective issues: One of the reviews mentions receiving defective tires, although the seller is praised for providing a satisfactory resolution.
  • Dirty appearance: One reviewer mentioned that the tires arrived dirty, which may be a minor concern for those expecting a pristine appearance.
Compare to other products

The Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S tire has received generally positive reviews from customers, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Many reviewers have praised the tire for its performance and stability, with one reviewer stating that it launched their Hellcat like a rocket ship and remained stable up to 160 mph. Others have noted that the tires fit well on their vehicles, with plenty of room on the inside and outside. Some customers also appreciate the way the tires look on their cars, describing them as "badass."

However, there are also a few negative reviews, with one customer reporting that their tires were defective and vibrating like crazy. Despite this, they praised the seller for providing a refund after the manufacturer confirmed the defect. Overall, the Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S tire appears to be a well-regarded product that offers good performance and value for money.

For whom it is recommended

I would recommend the 'Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S Racing Radial Tire, 15-20 inch fitments' to car enthusiasts who are looking for high-performance tires for their vehicles. Based on the product description and reviews, this tire is suitable for those who want a tire that can provide strong traction and stability at high speeds.

The tire is described as a "high-performance street-to-strip tire," indicating that it is designed for both everyday driving and drag racing. The reviews also suggest that this tire performs well during launches and provides stability at speeds up to 160 mph. Therefore, it would be a good choice for car enthusiasts who want to modify their vehicles for improved performance and faster acceleration.

Additionally, the Mickey Thompson brand is known for producing tires specifically for racing and high-performance applications. So, this tire would be recommended to those who trust and prefer the Mickey Thompson brand for their performance tire needs.

It is important to note that these tires are not intended for everyday use on public roads, as they are designed primarily for racing and high-performance applications. Therefore, they may not provide the same level of comfort, noise reduction, or longevity as standard passenger car tires.

In summary, the 'Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S Racing Radial Tire, 15-20 inch fitments' is recommended for car enthusiasts seeking high-performance tires for drag racing or occasional track use, and who prioritize traction, stability, and brand reputation.

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Mickey Thompson ET Street Radial Racing Tire P305/45R17

Source: m.media-amazon.com

The Mickey Thompson ET Street R Racing Radial Tire is a D.O.T.-approved race tire that can be used on the street. It features the company's proven R2 compound, which provides superior performance with minimal burnout required. The tubeless "Radial Pro" technology and minimal tread void design work together to deliver the ultimate dry traction for your vehicle. This particular model, the P305/45R17, has a section width of 305 millimeters and fits rims with a width of 17 inches. It is designed for year-round use and offers a balance of performance and traction for passenger cars.

Specification Description
Brand Mickey Thompson
Season Year-Round
Size P305/45R17
Section Width 305 Millimeters
Rim Width 17 Inches
Tire Diameter 27.8 Inches
Item Weight 28.44 Pounds
Features Proven R2 compound, tubeless radial pro technology, minimal tread void for dry traction, suitable for 15-18 inch radial sizes
Quality D.O.T. approved, superior performance, ultimate traction, and dry traction
Price $421.97

Reasons to buy:

  • Superior performance at the strip with little burnout required.
  • Tubeless "Radial Pro" technology provides the ultimate traction.
  • Minimal tread void for maximum dry traction.
  • Available in 8 popular 15- to 18-inch radial sizes.
  • Proven R2 compound.
  • D.O.T. approved for racing and can be driven on the street.

Reasons to avoid:

  • Some reviews mention receiving old tires with only a few months or a year of shelf life left, which can affect performance and longevity.
  • One review mentions a potential safety issue with a bubble developing on the side of the tire.
  • Another review mentions uneven wear and poor performance after only 200 miles of use.
Compare to other products

The Mickey Thompson ET Street R Racing Radial Tire is a high-performance tire designed for racing and drag strips. It is a DOT-approved race tire that can also be used on the street, providing superior traction and performance.

Compared to other tires in its class, the Mickey Thompson tire stands out for its proven R2 compound, which offers excellent traction with minimal burnout required. Its "Radial Pro" tubeless technology and minimal tread void design further enhance its dry traction capabilities.

The tire has received mostly positive reviews from customers, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars. Many users have praised its exceptional traction, even at high speeds and with minimal warm-up required. Some have also noted its safety benefits, providing confidence when driving at the limit.

However, there are a few negative reviews, with some customers reporting issues with the tires wearing out faster than expected and developing unusual bubbles on the side. It is important to note that these tires are intended for racing and may not be suitable for daily driving, as their lifespan can vary depending on usage and conditions.

Overall, the Mickey Thompson ET Street R Racing Radial Tire is a highly regarded tire within its category, offering superior traction and performance for racing enthusiasts.

For whom it is recommended

The Mickey Thompson ET Street Radial Racing Tire P305/45R17 is a high-performance tire designed for racing and drag strips. Based on the reviews, I would recommend this product to individuals who are looking for superior traction and performance during drag racing or track events.

The target audience for this product appears to be car enthusiasts who own high-performance vehicles and participate in racing events. The tires are designed to provide maximum traction and grip, allowing drivers to accelerate quickly and maintain control during races.

Some of the key features that make these tires suitable for this audience include:

  • The proven R2 compound, which provides superior performance and traction at the strip with minimal burnout required.
  • Tubeless "Radial Pro" technology, ensuring the ultimate traction and handling.
  • Minimal tread void for maximum dry traction.
  • A range of popular radial sizes to fit different wheel configurations.

It is important to note that these tires are not intended for daily driving or regular street use, as they are designed specifically for racing and may wear out quickly under normal driving conditions.

Therefore, I would recommend the Mickey Thompson ET Street Radial Racing Tire P305/45R17 to car enthusiasts and racers who prioritize traction, performance, and safety during drag racing or track events.

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Mickey Thompson ET Street Radial Tire - P275/40R17

Source: m.media-amazon.com

The Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S Racing Radial Tire is a D.O.T.-approved street tire that provides excellent traction for racing. It features a proven polyester-ply, steel-belted, tubeless radial construction for strength and durability, with a quick and consistent traction R2 compound. The tire has a minimal tread void for excellent dry traction and is strategically placed to aid in hydroplane resistance. This tire is available in 18 popular sizes for 15- to 20-inch wheel diameters.

Specification Description
Brand Mickey Thompson
Season Summer
Size P275/40R17
Section Width 275 Millimeters
Load Capacity 1984 Pounds
Tread Depth 6 Inches
Tread Type Symmetrical
Rim Width 9.5 Inches
Tire Diameter 25.7 Inches
Quality DOT-approved, excellent traction, quick and consistent performance, durable
Features Polyester-ply, steel-belted, tubeless radial construction, R2 compound, minimal tread void, 18 sizes available
Price $295.79

Reasons to buy the Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S Racing Radial Tire:

  • D.O.T. approved for street use, providing excellent traction for drag racing.
  • Proven R2 compound for quick and consistent traction with minimal burnout required.
  • Polyester-ply and steel-belted radial construction for strength and durability, ensuring better ride control on the street.
  • Minimal tread voids for excellent dry traction, strategically placed to aid in hydroplane resistance.
  • Available in 18 popular sizes for 15- to 20-inch wheel diameters.

Reasons to avoid buying the Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S Racing Radial Tire:

  • Some users have reported receiving defective tires with dips, causing vibrations even when wheels are balanced.
  • Not suitable for use on a dyno.
  • May not be suitable for all weather conditions, especially winter or heavy rain, as it is a summer tire.
  • The price may be a factor for some, as it is a premium tire.
Compare to other products

The Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S Racing Radial Tire is a high-performance tire designed for street and strip use. It is a popular choice for those looking for a tire that offers both excellent dry traction and hydroplane resistance.

Compared to other performance tires in the same category, the Mickey Thompson tire offers similar features and performance. It is constructed using polyester-ply and steel-belted radial construction, which provides strength and durability. The tire also has a symmetrical tread pattern with minimal voids, which contributes to its excellent dry traction and hydroplane resistance.

In terms of size, the specific model mentioned (P275/40R17) fits 17-inch wheels and has a section width of 275 millimeters. It is important to note that tires come in various sizes, and this particular model may not be available in all sizes.

When compared to other brands, Mickey Thompson is a well-known and respected name in the tire industry, particularly for high-performance applications. Their tires are often praised for their traction, durability, and aesthetics. However, as with any product, there may be variations in quality, and some customers have reported issues with defective tires or vibrations even when properly balanced.

Overall, the Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S Racing Radial Tire is a competitive option in the performance tire market, offering features and performance comparable to other tires in its category.

For whom it is recommended

I would recommend the Mickey Thompson ET Street Radial Tire - P275/40R17 to car enthusiasts and drivers who are looking for a high-performance tire for their vehicle. This tire is ideal for those who want a street-legal tire that can also provide excellent traction and performance at the race track.

The Mickey Thompson ET Street Radial Tire is a D.O.T. (Department of Transportation) approved street tire, which means it is legal for use on public roads. At the same time, it is designed to provide superior traction and handling at the race track, making it a versatile choice for those who want a single set of tires for both street and track use.

The tire features a proven polyester-ply, steel-belted, tubeless radial construction, which provides strength and durability for excellent ride control on the street. The R2 compound ensures quick and consistent traction at the strip with minimal burnout required. The minimal tread void design provides excellent dry traction while also aiding in hydroplane resistance.

This tire is also available in a range of sizes to fit 15- to 20-inch wheel diameters, making it compatible with a wide variety of vehicles.

Overall, I would recommend this tire to performance-oriented drivers who are looking for a versatile and high-traction tire that can handle both street and track driving.

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Mickey Thompson ET Street Radial Tire - P235/60R15

Source: m.media-amazon.com

The Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S Racing Radial Tire is a D.O.T.-approved street tire that provides excellent traction for racing. It features a proven polyester-ply, steel-belted, and tubeless radial construction for strength and durability. The R2 compound ensures quick and consistent traction with minimal tread void for excellent dry traction. This tire is available in 18 popular sizes for 15- to 20-inch wheel diameters. Please note that this tire is not suitable for dyno use.

Specification Description
Brand Mickey Thompson
Season Summer
Size P235/60R15
Section Width 235 Millimeters
Tread Depth 6 Inches
Rim Width 7 Inches
Tire Diameter 26.1 Inches
Quality DOT-approved, excellent traction, and ride control
Features Polyester-ply, steel-belted, tubeless radial construction, R2 compound for quick traction, minimal tread void for dry traction and hydroplane resistance
Price $267.89

Reasons to buy:

  • D.O.T. approved for street use
  • Excellent traction, especially at the strip with little burnout required
  • Polyester-ply, steel-belted, tubeless radial construction provides strength and durability
  • Minimal tread void for excellent dry traction
  • Available in 18 popular sizes for 15- to 20-inch wheel diameters

Reasons to avoid:

  • Not suitable for use on a dyno
  • Some reviews mention that these tires wear out too quickly, especially for racing purposes
  • May not be suitable for daily driving due to the specialized nature of the tire
Compare to other products

The Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S Racing Radial Tire has received generally positive reviews from customers, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars. Many reviewers have praised the tire for its excellent traction and hook-up capabilities, with one reviewer stating that they noticed a significant improvement over their previous set of tires. The tire's durability, however, has been called into question by one reviewer, who felt that the tires wore out too quickly for their needs. It's important to note that this reviewer's experience may not be representative of the typical lifespan of these tires, especially if they are primarily used for racing, as intended.

Compared to other products in the same category, the Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S Racing Radial Tire appears to be a well-regarded option. With its proven polyester-ply construction, quick and consistent traction, and minimal tread void for dry traction, it offers a compelling combination of performance and value. However, it's always a good idea to consider multiple options and read through reviews to find the product that best suits your specific needs and preferences.

For whom it is recommended

I would recommend the Mickey Thompson ET Street Radial Tire - P235/60R15 to car enthusiasts, particularly those who own performance or racing vehicles. This tire is designed for those who want a balance between on-track performance and street legality.

The product description highlights that it is a D.O.T (Department of Transportation) approved street tire, meaning it is safe and legal for use on public roads. At the same time, it promises "excellent traction at the strip," indicating its ability to provide superior grip and performance when racing.

The reviews also suggest that this tire is well-suited for those looking for improved traction. One reviewer mentions that the tires are "very sticky" and provided much better grip than their previous set, while another highlights their ability to "really hook good on the street."

Therefore, I would recommend this product to car enthusiasts, especially those with performance or racing vehicles, who are seeking a tire that offers both on-track performance and street legality, with a focus on improved traction.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but only on performance tires that can handle the conditions. Otherwise, you will have limited traction, which can lead to dangerous situations.

Radials are often the superior choice, but it depends on a few factors. It all comes down to the car setup and the conditions under which the vehicle is being driven.

No. Slicks are not permitted for street use by the DOT as they are not built with regular road conditions in mind, making them unsafe.

Running smaller tires reduces weight and friction, which improves speed. However, it's important to remember that skinnier tires will reduce braking power, so further upgrades may be needed to maintain safety.

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