Good all season tires for $450 or less per set?

[moyenecorniche]

Not meaning to thread jack but since we're talking tires how are the DWS's? I'm looking for new tires since my sumitomo all seasons which lasted me like 15,000 miles are crap. No traction on the snow either. I've only got a budget for one set of good tires so I was thinking if those were any good. I'm open to opinions and suggestions.

Like you I have the Sumitomo's on the S4.. ( they came with the car ) and I have posted before how freakin dangerous these tires actually are in the snow.... I had the Conti's DWS's on my previous B6, a very good tire, will be fine for you " BUT " They are an all season, so when the snow gets deep, 5"- 7"+ then they will be limited and will slide a bit as they are designed to perform year round in all conditions. They are one of the best at doing this, but a dedicated winter like ( I prefer ) the Michelin Alpin PA3's is what I will throw back on for next winter.
However to answer your question " Yes " the Conti DWS's are worth it .....

As far as the above on expensive tires ..... Well that really depends on how you drive ..... If you're hitting the twisties at speeds not recommended by the DOT, then the correct ( performance ) speed rated tire and one that reaches it's limit gradually is needed. These are not cheap since performance costs, but then again that is peace of mind. Our cars weigh close to 4000 pounds, that is a lot of force when combined with Quattro and a V8. I want a performance tie that is designed to be pushed, One that at 90 mph isn't going to send me spinning into the tree's in the pouring rain. A tire that doesn't begin to destroy it's sidewall when heat and deflection forces increase..... These tires are going to be more expensive and even though we are talking about less than 5% of your driving, I still will pay for that performance. Wether it be Conti's or Michelin's.

The amusing Irony here is that we are driving $35,000 to $50,000 luxury performance cars and some want to throw on cheap inadequate tires. Two words only ..... Contact Patch ....