I got my first car this weekend having passed my test 3 weeks ago. It's a 95 Impreza 1.6GL AWD and I have to make a quick decision about tyres.
The wheels are steel 14"s. On the fronts it has Dunlop SP Sport 200 which were put on after 3 years and 25k, these are both still in reasonable condition with around 4mm of tread (the car has only gone 15k for the past 3 yrs.) On the right rear it has a 'Debicca Passco' (or Passco Debicca ;)) which looks almost new, I havnt heard of this brand, it's made in Poland aparently.
On the left rear it has the original Bridgestone SF237 which having been 40k is getting close to being illegal.

What should I do about the worn tyre? I've heard it's a bad idea from the dif's point of view and for the handling to have a mis match of tyre makes and wear rates on the car.
I'd like to change the wheels to Turbo alloys, but am not sure if I could afford it (the cost of petrol and insurance is plenty for a 17 year old!), what the insurance company would say, and how it would effect the car (acceleration, handling, speedo calibration, etc).

Any advice on what I should do?
Cheers,
Ben.

My advice would be to bin the back tyres, stick the part worn Dunlops on the back. For the front buy a new pair, preferably same as the Dunlops, if you can get them.

If you really want to change to Turbo wheels, keep an eye on the Private section - they quite often come up at good prices.

[Edited by NBW - 11/27/2001 9:03:25 AM]

IMHO
You should change the two tyres on each axle at the same time - i think this makes sense , or you could damage the diff.

Ben,
If I were you and on a budget, I'd have a look in the private section. I see a set of 15" alloys and new tyres for £120. It would cost you that for a couple of tyres anyway. Give it a bit better looks as well!
Alan

Forgot to say, seller is in Manchester so not too far!