I'm planning a ski trip with the son and daughter-in-law in Andorra (we live near Barcelona). Snow chains are compulsory if the weather is bad. Is taking the XKR a terrible idea? Has anyone fitted chains to an XKR? Wondering if I might be better off hiring a car and taking that instead.

 

I have snow here for about 4 months a year. I am wearing 245/45/18s all around to get down to the pavement and greater traction. Winter tires only are not really enough because of the rear wheel drive, so I added studs all around. Any snow over 4' deep and it would be best to leave the car in the parking spot.
You won't find chains to fit the staggered rear tires.

 

In Europe there's chains for such tires.

 

Be safe, not sorry. Rent a 4WD/AWD with snow tires. Have fun and don't worry.

 

:-) Now you are speaking my language!

These cars are EXCELLENT in the cold inclement weather. Which is why I have michelin pilot alpins for the winter, not all seasons!!
And truly, I haven't encountered a WRX that can get away from me... though I can't pass in that weather either.
I don't use the chains... only the straps.

I attribute it to the fine balance in these cars. Mind you I have a lifetime of experience in driving in this and my father was a winter rally champion/
Though it looks funny, don't go too wide on your rubber in the back end... you'll just float and hydroplane as opposed to bite in. Also, I need the accelerator to help me around the corners so I disable traction control.
And to reiterate I'm not running all seasons!!

There is a guy with a FF GT AWD (sorry, got it wrong) that I see every now and again. He too has a SeaSucker rack on the roof for the skis... we laugh about all the mom vans at the bar.

 

I'm more concerned about other drivers losing control and running into me. Peace of mind is worth the cost of renting a 4WD/AWD.
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Don't worry, be happy!

 

I've only driven from Barcelona to Andorra in the rain but couldn't fail to notice the miles of snow poles.




Like Stuart, the thing that would concern me most about taking my own car there in Winter would be the risk from other drivers.

Graham

 

Seems like a consensus, hire car it is! Thanks for all the input.

 

ho hum

Cheers, I never get enough time with my children… Have a great trip!

 

I had an issue with door latches not working when it was really cold out. The passenger door wouldn't close and lock. Did not matter how well lubricated the lock assembly was. Driving with winter tires in XK was no different than any other RWD car in that regards.

 

I noticed that my handle would stick open, so any spray would have gone to the rear of the handle, not down to the latch/lock area that is greased well enough..