American tire company bought by India-based Apollo

One of the last remaining domestic tire makers an agreement to merge with India-based Apollo Tyres last month and the process continues toward finalizing the $2.5-billion deal.

Yes, the suitor spells tire with a "y." We've tested their tires produced under their corporate umbrella from Vredestein; they offer solid performance but are pricey. Apollo also sells tires under its own brand name. (Visit our tire buying guide.)

Ohio-based Cooper has been around since 1914. Cooper is the 11th largest tire company in the world and has a strong reputation of selling premium and mid-tier tires through independent dealers across the country. The company also sells tires under the names Mastercraft, Starfire, Roadmaster and Avon. On the other hand, Apollo is a relative newcomer in the tire industry having been founded in 1972. Combined, Apollo and Cooper will become the 7th largest tire company in the world.

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