W vs V Speed Rating: What’s the Difference and Can You Mix Them?
A V speed rating means the tire is certified for sustained speeds up to 149 mph (240 km/h). A W speed rating means up to 168 mph (270 km/h). W-rated tires are usually built for sportier handling, with a stiffer construction and stickier rubber, so they often cost more and may wear a little faster. If your car came with W-rated tires, the safest choice is to replace them with W or higher. Fitting V-rated tires instead is not recommended unless your car maker or tire professional approves it, because it lowers the speed and handling capability your car was designed around.
When you shop for new tires, you may see two almost identical tires in your size, one ending in V and one in W, with different prices. Since nobody drives 149 mph on a public road, it is fair to ask whether the W rating matters at all.
It does, but not only because of top speed. This guide explains what W and V speed ratings mean, how they affect handling, comfort and tire life, and whether you can safely swap one for the other.
Tire Speed Rating Chart
| Rating | Max speed (mph) | Max speed (km/h) | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 112 | 180 | Family cars, minivans, some winter tires |
| T | 118 | 190 | Family sedans and SUVs |
| H | 130 | 210 | Sport sedans, many modern cars |
| V | 149 | 240 | Sport sedans, coupes, performance SUVs |
| W | 168 | 270 | High-performance and luxury cars |
| Y | 186 | 300 | Exotic and very high-performance cars |
You may also see “ZR” in the size, such as 245/40ZR18. That marks a tire rated above 149 mph, and the letter after the load index (for example 97W or 97Y) gives the exact rating.
W vs V Speed Rating: Key Differences
| V-rated | W-rated | |
|---|---|---|
| Max sustained speed | 149 mph (240 km/h) | 168 mph (270 km/h) |
| Handling | Sporty and stable | Sharper steering, more grip at the limit |
| Ride comfort | Often a little softer | Often firmer |
| Tread life | Often longer | Often a little shorter (softer compounds) |
| Heat resistance | High | Higher |
| Price | Lower | Usually higher |
The exact differences depend on the tire model. Some tire lines are offered in both ratings with very similar feel, while in others the W version is a more focused performance tire. Read the manufacturer’s specs and reviews for the specific tire you are considering.
Can You Put V-Rated Tires on a Car That Came With W?
The general rule from tire makers and safety groups is to use the same speed rating as the original tires or higher. Going down from W to V means:
- Your car’s maximum safe speed becomes that of the lowest-rated tire.
- Handling and steering response may feel softer than the car was tuned for.
- Many tire shops will not install a lower rating than the car’s placard without a signed waiver.
- In some countries, such as the UK, insurers may ask about tires that do not meet the manufacturer’s spec.
Going up from V to W is always fine, as long as the size and load index are correct. The main trade-offs are price and sometimes a firmer ride.
Do not mix different speed ratings on the same axle. Ideally all four tires should share the same rating. Winter tires are a common exception, where a lower speed rating is often accepted; follow the tire maker’s and your car maker’s guidance.
How to Find Your Tire’s Speed Rating
Find the size on the tire, for example 225/45R17 94W.
The last part, 94W, is the load index (94) followed by the speed rating letter (W).
Look at the sticker on the driver’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual for the original size, load index and speed rating.
Choose replacement tires with the same size, the same or higher load index, and the same or higher speed rating.
For trucks and SUVs, see our truck tire speed rating chart.
Which Should You Choose?
- Your car came with W: Stick with W (or Y). You keep the handling the car was designed for.
- Your car came with V: V is fine. Choose W only if you want sharper handling and accept the price and possible tread life trade-off.
- You want maximum tread life and comfort: A V-rated touring tire is often the better pick, as long as V is allowed for your car.
Comparing brands? Read Michelin vs Bridgestone and Pirelli vs Michelin. And when it is time to replace, check our guide on how long 4/32 tire tread lasts.
- Speed ratings assume correct inflation and load. An underinflated tire loses much of its rated capability.
- The load index matters as much as the speed rating. Never go lower than the placard.
- Ask the shop to price both V and W versions of the same tire line so you can compare.
- Keep the receipt showing the speed rating you bought, especially if you lease the car.
V-rated tires are rated to 149 mph and W-rated tires to 168 mph. W tires usually offer sharper handling and more heat resistance, while V tires often ride softer, last longer and cost less. Replace with the same speed rating your car came with or higher, and keep matching ratings on each axle.
W vs V Speed Rating FAQs
V-rated tires are certified up to 149 mph (240 km/h) and W-rated tires up to 168 mph (270 km/h). W tires are usually stiffer and grippier, while V tires often ride softer and last longer.
It is not recommended. Tire makers advise using the original speed rating or higher. A lower rating reduces your car’s safe top speed and can change handling.
Yes. A higher speed rating is always allowed as long as the size and load index are correct.
Often a little, because many W-rated tires use softer, grippier rubber. It depends on the specific tire model, so compare the treadwear warranty.
Never on the same axle. Ideally use the same rating on all four. If ratings are mixed, the car’s safe top speed is limited to the lowest-rated tire.
It is the letter after the load index at the end of the tire size, for example the W in 225/45R17 94W.
- V = 149 mph (240 km/h). W = 168 mph (270 km/h).
- W: sharper handling, firmer ride, usually pricier.
- V: often softer ride, longer tread life, cheaper.
- Replace with the same rating or higher.
- Never mix ratings on one axle.
