as another winter approaches here we go again ...
So, first off let's learn or relearn the facts about winter tires
There are basically three different types of winter tires so, we'll start there
#1.) Performance Winter
You want enhanced dry road handling from your winter tires and are willing to trade some snow and ice traction to get it.
Meeting severe snow service requirements and branded with the "Snowflake-on-the-Mountain" symbol, these low profile, H- or V-speed rated tires are designed to suit winter driving on European highways. They are available in many of the low profile sizes used as Original Equipment on sporty imported and domestic cars. Due to their unique designs these tires must be installed in sets of four.
#2.) Studless Ice and Snow
You want to maximize snow and ice traction from your winter tires without the inconvenience of using winter tire studs.
Meeting severe snow service requirements and branded with the "Snowflake-on-the-Mountain" symbol, these Q-speed rated tires feature the latest in tread compound technology to provide winter traction without the inconvenience of tire studs. They trade a little handling for excellent ice and snow traction. Due to their unique tread compounds these tires must be installed in sets of four.
#3.)Studdable Winter
You want the traditional security of studded winter tires for enhanced traction on ice.
Meeting severe snow service requirements and branded with the "Snowflake-on-the-Mountain" symbol, these non-, Q-, S-, or T-speed rated tires feature traditional snow tire tread compounds and studdable tread designs for good snow and ice traction. Due to their unique designs these tires must be used in sets of four. Use of studded tires is often prohibited or restricted. Check with local authorities to confirm legality.
With your new found winter tire knowledge we can now discuss winter tire recommendations.
The E39 M5 should really be shod with performance winter tires so, I strongly recommend the Blizzak product line if you live in an area with a large amount of snow and ice. If you geographic region does see snow and ice but to a lesser extent the Dunlop Winter Sport M3D and Winter Sport M3 are great choices as well.
I also recommend that all 4 tires be of the same size front and rear since a narrower tire will perform better in the snow than a wider version.
here are a few wheel and tire package options which I endorse that will work on your E39 M5.
#1a.)
235/45R17 Bridgestone BLIZZAK LM25
17X8 Sport Edition KM11
$1140.00 plus shipping
the wheel fits correctly, has a durable finish and is relatively easy to clean so, it would make a perfect winter wheel.
#1b.) another good wheel coice, which is nothing more than a different style is the ASA KV5. Utilizing this wheel would not alter the package price so again it would be $1140.00
#2.) want to maintain the 18" wheel look and still drive in the winter?
245/40R18 Bridgestone BLIZZAK LM25
18X8.5 Borbet Type TS
$1480.00 plus shipping
#3.)
The Dunlop Winter SPort M3 is available in the original sizes for your E39 M5's OE wheels if you choose to just swap the tires on your wheels.
245/40R18
275/35R18
$870.00 plus shipping
These are just some suggestions and not the only options. Since, there is no "1 size fits all" solution or if you have a specific idea of what you would like and need a little help to find out what would work best just let me know with a post in this thread. I will check daily for questions.
If you prefer to shop online use this link
1 last note: If you choose to garage the M5 and have a second car or SUV I can help you outfit that as well.
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