If you drive conservely how long are tires and brakes good for?

[kavlono]

I've got an airplane that gives me all the speed and thrills I can handle. In cars I like to go slow and enjoy the sights.

[mjw930]

Originally Posted by kavlono

I've got an airplane that gives me all the speed and thrills I can handle. In cars I like to go slow and enjoy the sights.

Then perhaps a Porsche isn't the right car for you

[tmc]

Originally Posted by kavlono

I've got an airplane that gives me all the speed and thrills I can handle. In cars I like to go slow and enjoy the sights.

Might I humbly recommend a BMW 325CI convertible then? It will run you much less dough and suit your driving style better. It's a real looker and very nice handling. Maintenance is included for the first 50,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first.

Porsche is really aiming at a different market from what (I'm hearing) you want.

[MNBoxster]

Hi,

Generally the softer the compound, the better the grip, the shorter the wear - a trade-off Grip for Wear.

The Tires spec'd for the Boxster are relatively soft compound Tires: 140-220 Treadwear Rating. This means they grip like a Cat, but leave lots of rubber in their wake and so wear quickly. Tires in this range wear between 12k and 20k mi.

But, there is also a Time Component to the Tires' Service Life - NO LONGER THAN 5 YEARS! This is because the tire become harder, losing Grip, and loses it's Heat Management qualities as it ages. This is due to moisture, UV Rays, Heat Cycling etc.

A Tire 5 years old is unsafe for high speed running regardless of the amount of tread left, you may get away with it, but that doesn't mean it's safe. Personally, I change my Tires every 4 years (they usually need it anyway, but I do it even if they don't).

Happy Motoring!...Jim'99

[bhduxbury]

don't let the bastar . . . errr . . . posters get you down kav.

i know: you want the box because it feels good to drive in your manner and it looks good to the eye. screw the "bleeding edge" performance crap. bravo!

get some all season tires and go r30k/f50k and replace your break pads about the same (f/r estimates swapped). or thereabouts.

get the car you love to drive and drive it like you want.

[kavlono]

They don't get me down. Some people find their manhood in having a fast car and when someone challenges that, it scares them. I am a firm believer in to each their own. I never pass judgment on others.
Thanks for both the responsive responses. That is very informative about soft tires. Never knew that. OK 30-50k for tires and brakes are good for me. That issue is resolved. I will think of more.

[SeaNile]

I had a 99 Boxster, picked it up with 24K miles, kept it for 2 years sold it with 46K miles and did not have to replace brakes or tires. I drive like a wimp too I guess. I will say so far with the S I am not so conservative. No speed demon either but these cars are awesome! I use my 02 S as a daily driver, as did I with the 99 and hope to have no problems. I am willing to trade stickyness for tread life due to my daily, non-race inspired commutes.

--John

[BuffaloBoxster]

I got 46k on my brakes. Tires will go much quicker if you're using the sticky types. I'm hoping to get two seasons out of my rears but I'm not sure I'll make it.

[kavlono]

Thanks, this is good information. Sounds like with wimpy (conservative) driving, the tires and brakes may last almost as long as they would on a regular car. I m going to two dealers today to look at models.