Drive like a normal person and you'll be fine.

 

For some odd reason, I've had the opportunity to test my '06 stock Potenzas in the rain in an HPDE & auto-x. Fortunately, they performed well. During one of the HPDE activities, I had to do a high-speed quick avoidance maneuver to avoid a set of cones at almost 100mph in the rain. Twice, the Z handled well but I was nervous before the maneuver & was shaking after completing the maneuver. The stock Potenzas also handled well during a high-speed braking activity, which also tested your ABS. Here are some pics of my Z during a recent auto-x in the rain. I had to lower the tire pressure in the rear tires to get more grip and the stock Potenzas performed well.





The bottom line -- depend on your driving knowledge & skills when driving in the rain, not your tires.

 

Thanks for posting… good info… and pics always make the post better.

And, not arguing... But, I would only add that it is driving skills (as you say) plus appropriate tires (and the condition of those tires) that you keep you safe. A good driver with crappy tires can get into trouble.
--Spike

 

I totally agree with you. I drove the stock Potenzas for 2½ years including numerous autocrosses, including a few in the rain and they performed admirably. Now, when the rears get down to that last 1/16th you had better be careful.

 

^^ That is where I am now (with my Potenzas). Looks as though I need new tires ASAP. My Z car isn't driving anywhere near what I think it should, and now I realize it's probably the tires. Glad I read this thread, and I appreciate those who provide info here. I'm buying new tires tomorrow.
--Spike

 

Hmm, interesting. Usually, it's better to add a few psi when you run in the wet to help the tires cut through the water.

 

The potenzas can be pretty dangerous, depending on the conditions. I have 19k miles on mine, and I dont go over 60-65 on the freeway when its pouring. I hit a few puddles at highway speed, and its pretty scary. Are they the best rain tires? Hell no, but they arent the worst either. If you drive like a sane person, and have some common sense, you should be fine.

 

It was during auto-x in the rain. Lowering the tire pressure increases the contact patch, thus, more grip. Trust me, it made a difference in handling in a wet, slick pavement.