Best Tires for the BMW Mini Cooper 1600.

A few months ago we bought a BMW Mini R50 Cooper as an inexpensive run around but were shocked at the handling characteristics of the car. The car would hop and skip over ridges, crash into pot holes, jump sideways on uneven surfaces, and lose speed over broken surfaces. We checked the run-flat tire pressures, wheel balancing, steering geometry, and even renewed one tire. A test drive in a more recent Cooper S courtesy car was no better. In fact, in some ways, the extra power made this even more like a naughty puppy - eager to head for the nearest ditch at every opportunity. But it did confirm to me that the root of the problem was the run-flat tires. So I bought a complete set of Neuton NT8000s. The difference is simply amazing! I can now see what the (UK) designers at MG Rover were seeking to achieve. The car still corners as if on rails, but the ride is now much more supple and well-damped. I no longer have to brace myself if I see a rough bit of tarmac ahead. Road noise is greatly reduced and early indications are that wear will be very good. Considering the price of these budget tires, recommendation is an absolute no-brainer.

Had some downpours lately, wet weather grip is good, dry grip is as good as it gets.
Only done about a thousand miles on them so far, but wear seems good too.
Road noise is negligible, ride quality is fine for a run flat.
Have recommended them to other MINI owners who were thinking of getting cheaper non run flats. Once they have had the newness worn off, they improve in terms of grip to a level that should satisfy anyone.
If anyone say's that they don't perform well in the wet, i would suggest they are driving too fast for the weather conditions!