Michelin Collection XWX 205 VR14 89W 002450

The only radial tyre which could be fitted on the fastest cars in the world in the 70’s, the XWX gives these high speed vehicles outstanding road holding and remarkable grip. A construction designed to reach 300 kph (186 mph)The special features of the XWX mean that it gives remarkable performance, combining speed, driving pleasure and safety. The original design of its internal construction, together with its flexible carcass give exceptional comfort when travelling at very high speeds. Being a VR category tyre, the XWX can be used atspeeds in excess of 210 kph (131 mph) ; with a maximum speed of 270 kph (155 to 186 mph).Dream carsAt the end of the 60’s, Germany and Italy were the leaders in the European motorway development programme. They were also the main producers of cars which could reach speed in excess of 200 km/h, (124 mph). The wide asphalt strips and the absence of speed limits offered a privileged few the opportunity to make full use of theperformance of these 'super-cars' at speeds which would be unthinkable today.• The Lamborghini Miura (1966), Ferrari 365 (1965), Maserati Ghilbi (1966) ; de Tomaso Pantera (1970) and Porsche 911 Carrera RS (1972) were the undisputed stars, but the large German saloons like the Mercedes 300 SE 6,31 (1968) and BMW 3.0 SI (1971) also made a strong impression.• The French were also in the frame with the Citroën SM (1970) as were the British with the legendary Jaguar V12 E-Type (1970) and Aston Martin DBS (1967).Informed observers will note that this exceptional performance was achieved on tyresof the same width as those that fit today’s very sensible saloons.