You're about to see a video. In the video, you'll the SAME road I took about one year ago. It was snowing lightly and I was on my sports package (19" RAYS) rims/tires. Not even half mile driving into the road, I was able to spin out my 370z 180 degrees!
. It was at night but traffic was still pretty busy. I have had people drive around me for at least 5 minutes as I was trying to get traction.
It was a VERY scary experience. I didn't drive my car for at least 3 days (since I was in shock)
End of 2009, I ordered a set of winter rims/tires. I went with Blizzaks LM-25 with TR Motorsport C2. You can learn more about the setup HERE :
My Winter Rims/Tires Setup: TRMotorsport C2 + Blizzak LM-25 w/TPMS w/pics (AK370Z)
This time around (last week), with my winter setup, I had a totally different experience. These blizzaks and thinner tires from Tireracks were wonderful. I had NO traction issues what so ever. I was driving with a whole new confidence I never had before! As you can see in the video, I drove on about 2-4" of snow. Sometimes it was even more. I had no problem taking off, turning or even braking. These tires have grip that defies the laws of physics! Me being in a RWD car, I was able to keep up with SUVs and trucks with these tires.
Few snow driving tips
a. I always started my car on 2nd gear. After driving a little, I was able to drive away with no wheel spin even on acceleration.
b. During turn, it's safer to just let the car cruise through the turn (instead of pressing gas). As soon as you become straight, slowly hit the gas pedal.
c. Always keep some snow gloves in your trunk. I underestimated the cold and was cleaning my car without gloves. Within 3-5 minutes, I lost feeling to my hands! (14 degrees temp doesn't help either)
In conclusion, I want to recommend these tires (Blizzaks) to everyone that plan on driving the Z all year long (including winter season). These tires have phenomenon grip in snow/sleet/icy/wet conditions and will save your Z from an accident. My setup ONLY costs 5% of the Z purchase price but I feel that it's one of the best investment I made to the car till date.
You can use the link in my sig to go to tirerack and purchase the rims/tires. It's an affiliate link and will help out the forum if you do.
Thanks for reading. Now time to watch the video