[Jamo]

Lew's right re the lettering, but the BBs will look great with decals, etc.

Here's the thing...BBs, Bluetstreaks, etc. are all non-DOT and one of the first things that gives when tires are dedicated for racing are rubber compounds designed for durability. That's why the age of a race tire is as important as its tread. Same thing for operational temperatures...rain tires (like the BBs) are designed to run in slightly cooler temps than say, a racing slick. Autocross tires, on the other hand (even the DOT versions) are designed to heat up quicker than road race tires...to fit their application. Pretty soon the ability to heat cycle goes away.

And yes, the BBs will start cracking in several years (two years on a car is ok, if they haven't been sitting around before then).

The Avons are DOT, so the durability is going to be a bit better. Radial construction also helps in keep the sidewalls stiff (and the tire round)...but don't mistake them for a normal consumer DOT tire with higher durability ratings. Compared to BBs, they will be quite an improvement in staying young. Compared to a GTII, they are sh!t.

Why 17s? The Avons we're talking about are 15s, which is why they are so cool (and asspensive).