Anyone use Cooper RS3-S yet?

Any feedback or reviews on the Cooper RS3-S? I am looking at options for my E46 M3 for the upcoming season, and I must say it is an attractively priced tire.

I initially read that as "Cooper R53-S" which is a somewhat different topic...

In reply to SlickDizzy:

Me too.

Indeed. I was actually chosen by our local autocross sponsor (who owns a chain of tire stores) to test them when they came out. I was one of the fastest street tire guys in our region and the wanted me to compare them to the hankook RS3 and Dunlop starspecs.

The overall grip is not as high as the rs3 and SS, but it's also a 300 treadwear (compared to 140 and 200 in the others). I felt the tires we very communicative and had a very predictable feel. When they did brake loose it was very linear and didnt just 'snap' loose. It was easy to get the car back in line after a sideways moment. The limits were easy to feel and consistent despite tire temp changes. However I did over heat them at a 100°+ autocross. They became greasy and very slick, but that was a one time thing.

Overall they're a great tire for the price, just not competetive with the rs3 or starspecs.

I'll find one of my race vids when those were on the car if you'd like.

SlickDizzy wrote: I initially read that as "Cooper R53-S" which is a somewhat different topic...

As did I.

Thanks for the info, spoolpigeon.

You're very welcome!

Here are a couple vids. This first one is a good, clean run that landed me in the top 10 RAW times of that day.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KouKK6nyBwk

And this was the event where I got the tires overheated

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0ypFfuLu2Q

In reply to iadr:

They were initially made only for the Roush mustangs. I suppose demand was high enough and they started making more sizes and selling them to the public.

iadr wrote: They were chosen (or developed in conjuction with) a major Mustang tuner (mental block, can't think who). Not especially a value (something I level at most Cooper tires). So not sure what the selling feature is. What are your options? I think in the same vein, I'd go Conti DW's...? Cool looking outer tread blocks, btw... lol

It was an outlier option -- I've seen it referred to a few times in the magazine, and was curious to know if it was as promising as it looked. I think I will stick with the OTHER RS3 -- assuming any stock ever arrives again :)

In reply to Spoolpigeon:

As someone who has experienced these first hand, maybe you can lend me some advise. I could pick a set of these up for $700 for my Z06 in 275/35/18 front and 325/30/19 rear. The alternative would be same size but Bridgestone RE11 for $1300 the set. I know the RE11 are a better performer but would you say the price gap is justified? I guess I'm really asking which between the two would you choose. I autox my Z06 from time to time but if Im honest street driving is what its doing most of the time. Its not a daily however.

Thanks in advance.