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Driving a Mazda MX5 in the winter - should we fit cold weather tyres?
My son (aged 22) will be driving an MX5 this winter in rural Norfolk. This is his first experience of a rear wheel drive vehicle. Have you any tips that I can pass on to him and suggestions for recommended courses that specifically relate to handling a rear wheel drive vehicle?
He is a sensible and careful driver, but nevertheless boys take risks and I would rather he had the knowledge and experience before attempting ice/snow in this car. He has driven a Peugeot 106 through several winters now without a problem but I worry that this car will be a different kettle of fish!
He is a sensible and careful driver, but nevertheless boys take risks and I would rather he had the knowledge and experience before attempting ice/snow in this car. He has driven a Peugeot 106 through several winters now without a problem but I worry that this car will be a different kettle of fish!
Asked on 17 November 2012 by tamarisktree
Answered by
Honest John
Yes. Get a full set of four winter tyres fitted. MX5s are very back endy on slippery surfaces. Most racetracks have skidpans where he could improve his driving skills. The best is at the Porsche Centre at Silverstone, that even has a simulated downhill skid pan.
Cold-snap snow-how: Advice on coping with the freezing weather, including videos, facts and winter driving advice.
Honest John's Guide To Winter Tyres
From choosing the right tyre to what to do when it goes wrong - we have the answers.
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