There are different types of SP9000 tyres available. There is a version for the Lexus IS200. This is the reply I received from Dunlop about the differences and how to tell the difference.

[quote]The biggest differences in the 215 40 r 17 Dunlop SP9000 for the Lexus are internal. The tyres construction is tuned to compliment the way the car handles.

The Lexus tyre is made in Japan while the standard SP9000 is made in Germany. Both tyres have stickers on the tread when new. They are removed when fitted. The sticker will say if the tyre is for the Lexus should it be the correct one. Should the sticker have been dislodged then look for made in Japan on the tyre.[/quote]


I will add this info into the knowledgebase.

cool, mine are japanese ones

perhaps they should design ones with a thicker inner tread

[quote name='dobedo' date='Apr 5 2004, 01:37 PM']cool, mine are japanese ones
perhaps they should design ones with a thicker inner tread [/quote]
Why would they do that ??

They already went to huge lengths to ensure they wear the insides out really quick

[quote name='ColinBarber' date='Apr 5 2004, 01:25 PM']There are different types of SP9000 tyres available. There is a version for the Lexus IS200. This is the reply I received from Dunlop about the differences and how to tell the difference.

[quote]The biggest differences in the 215 40 r 17 Dunlop SP9000 for the Lexus are internal. The tyres construction is tuned to compliment the way the car handles.

The Lexus tyre is made in Japan while the standard SP9000 is made in Germany. Both tyres have stickers on the tread when new. They are removed when fitted. The sticker will say if the tyre is for the Lexus should it be the correct one. Should the sticker have been dislodged then look for made in Japan on the tyre.[/quote]


I will add this info into the knowledgebase. [/quote]
Thanks - Colin, I also contacted Dunlop myself as I was concerned about which version I had been supplied with and I confirm they told me exactly the same thing!
However, as my supplier fitted a "made in Germany" one and I requested the Lexus version (made in Japan) I contacted them and they have also contacted Dunlop to be told the same thing - Guess what they have now ordered me the Lexus/made in Japan one!

Added to knowledgebase:
[url="http://www.lexusownersclub.co.uk/knowledge/index.php?page=index_v2&id=88&c=5"]http://www.lexusownersclub.co.uk/knowledge...ex_v2&id=88&c=5[/url]

Situation now resolved - I now have the correct made in Japan/Lexus version of the dunlop sp sport 9000 tyre fitted. I can now see (side on) that the side wall appears tapered inwards more to allow the more visible rim protection "banding". You can also "feel" the rim protection on this tyre whereas you can't on the standard sp 9000. Dunlop also said that they recommend the Lexus version as it is tailored to suit the weight and handling characteristics of the IS200