I just got 4 new Yokohama Avids which are all season tires for about 500$. Thats a good deal since the cheapst michelins were 1,000. My mechanic says that he wouldnt rate Michelins over these tires. Yokos are OEM on this car. I have nitrogen in the tires and you feel everything....to much for me but if you like the performance, agressive feel you will like them. I had Yokos YK420s all season, which in my terms were not so bumpy like the Avids. But keep in mine I only have 1,500 miles on the new ones. And the first month I could feel the difference day to day as the bounce wore off but i do not think they will get any better...nitrogen may be part of the culprit.
From all the research I did stay away from Bridgestone Potenza and Turanzas. They hydroplane. Michelin Pilots, Primacys (backordered), Energies rated 9/10. Yokos were 7/8. They are great tires for the price...its not like our cars are brand new....but they run like they are
When I had my '96 ES, I tried everything under the sun...and the ONLY tires that worked for me where the Michelins. I've had the Exalto's and the Primacy's...and you can't go wrong with either one. The Exalto's grip the best...but have a 20K mile SHORTER life span. On my '00 ES, I have the Primacy's installed and they are 4lbs heavier, which does make a difference on the gas mileage....but they are smooooooooth as butter...especially at 110mph!
Tony
Atlanta, GA