Yokohama ADVAN APEX: Ultra-high Performance Done Right
Compounds & Construction
ADVAN APEX uses a high-grade silica compound, as well as an asymmetric design, for its tread. Asymmetric patterns help reduce road noise, however, my exhaust audibly overpowers most everything outside while in transit. The only way I could hear anything coming from the tires was only after putting my car in neutral while rolling. Or just cruising and letting the AFM kick into “V4 Mode.” That’s not to say that my cabin is riddled with drone, but I’m currently sporting MBRP axlebacks in the rear.
In other words, my car is loud. Angrily loud.
One of the best features of this tire is the quarter-inch protrusion from the sidewall. It acts as a type of impromptu wheel lip, and it certainly staves off hazards like curb rash and other road maladies.
Yokohama ADVAN APEX Performance
The ADVAN APEX is a natural fit for the sixth-gen Camaro SS, even with stock wheels. We already know that the convertible is about 0.2 seconds slower than the coupe in that regard. Despite being heavier, these tires blur the lines between the two, and make the vert’s weight almost negligible.
This Camaro SS is equipped with an 8L90 automatic and lots of extra bracing. This adds considerable weight to the vehicle, but the reality is that these drivetrains are just plain faster than humans at efficiently shifting. And while Motor Trend proved that a 1SS with a standard tranny outperforms even the fifth-gen 1LE regarding quarter-mile and 0-60 evals, the automatic still generally outperforms both.
Closing the Gap
Arguably, the convertible further closes the gap with its coupe brethren when paired with these tires. You can look at this photo and think, “4.7 is ok,” and you’d be right. But you have to remember that OEM testing often takes place on a closed circuit, or in a facility, where nearly every variable is accommodated for.
Naturally, street testing gives you different results. The coupe, by default, would likely complete the same run I did two- to three-tenths quicker.
Yes, I know these aren’t meant for the waterbox, but they still perform well enough in a straight line to mention. Of course, there are other things that go into evaluating this segment besides weight—like aerodynamics. And clearly, there is no production vert out there (yet) that can match the drag coefficient of a coupe.
I do have a front splitter and wicker bill but they frankly don’t add much downforce (if any). Such things actually reduce top speed for traction to help keep the car planted onto the ground, which is what you want for hard cornering.
Even with hindrances such as these, this car still performed a decent 0-60 time on Yokohama’s ADVAN APEX tires.
Moving along, WOT on a roll (on a sparsely-occupied highway or Interstate) is addicting. These tires sink their claws into the asphalt and will simply not let go.
Final Verdict
Short Answer: These tires are good. Very good.
Long answer: The ADVAN APEX is a wonderful step-up from the AVS Sport line. The level of street performance is truly impressive, and it makes for a fantastic road course option. I can even see this being a track day choice. You get tons of grip and cutting-edge precision, and I can’t argue with that.
We will revisit these tires during the rainy season for the ultimate test, but we’ll enjoy the extra toasty asphalt for now.
Photos by LS1Tech Editor Derin Richardson
Join the LS1Tech forums now!
