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In review of the original intent of the Tire Rack's testing, they tested ONLY 200 tread wear tires. That magical "200" number is a more commonly accepted "class-spec" tire around most of the country... and some use a little lower number (~140 minimum). So, although many other tires/models could have been tested, they had to be "200" (not greater or less than 200). At that point in time, as may still be current today, I believe the most widely offered single "size" for likely useage on an autocross and/or road course event, say.. for "pony and/or muscle cars", was/is the 275-35-18... thus.. that was the "size" that qualified for being in the tests... I don't think any other tires of "200" tread wear were not included which offered that size of 275-35-18.

For those ppl super-serious about the fastest times on an autocross and/or road course event, there is the ultimate lowest tread wear ratings at "40" for very limited brands (and must be DOT listed) being Hoosier (A6 autocross, R6 road course), Kumho, Goodyear, BFG, and a trace of others. Typically, these super-soft/sticky tires will place the car into specific class/categories where such lower tread wear ratings are allowed (and still DOT listed).. and they DO make a big difference in lap times (although the driver still makes the final difference). These "40" tread wear tires don't last very long, but they grip like glue (and, "Yes officer, they are DOT legal!")... but not truly intended for street or hwy driving.

Take a look at the SCCA Solo National events, in particular the recent results.. they include tire brands on each car. Seek and find other similar "competition" events to see what other cars/drivers are running.

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