4.3 PROJECT

WHICH TIRE IS THE BEST OPTION?

Calculating unit rates can help you make better decisions when it comes time to spend your hard-earned money. For example, dealing with car maintenance can be a frustrating experience. How can a person make an informed decision when replacing tires?

In this project, you will explore the use of unit rates to help you choose a new set of tires for your car.

You have budgeted a maximum of $ ⁢ 370 for a set of new tires. The following table shows two different brands of tires that would fit your vehicle.

Name Raptor VR Solus TA31
Price per Tire $ ⁢ 83.26 $ ⁢ 90.00
Set of 4 Tires $ ⁢ 333.04 $ ⁢ 360.00
Mileage Warranty 55,000 miles 65,000 miles

  1. If total cost is your only consideration, which tire is the "best" choice?

  2. The Raptor VR has a 55,000 -mile warranty. Find the rate of miles to dollars for one Raptor VR tire. Write your answer as a unit rate.

  3. The Solus TA31 has a 65,000 -mile warranty. Find the rate of miles to dollars for one Solus TA31 tire. Write your answer as a unit rate.

  4. What do the rates in parts 2 and 3 measure?

  5. If getting the most for your money and staying within your budget is your goal, which tire seems like a better buy? Explain your reasoning. (Hint: Compare the percentage change between the two prices and between the two rates of miles per dollar.)