Tires: Tire Recommendation for Audi A4 Quattro, 1010tire, tirerack com

Question
Hi I would like to ask for your advice on alternative tires for my 1998 Audi A4 Quattro Avant 2.8L. It has michelin pilot 205/55R/16 tires now but these are too costly for me. Appreciate your advice.

Answer
Dear Akira,
Thank you for using AllExperts.
You have a very nice car!  
You didn't mention if you live in a heavy, or light snow area, but generally speaking, all-season tires would be recommendable these days if you live in a light to moderate snowfall area.
My records indicate that the original tires on your car were 205/55R16 90H.  '90' indicates the load requirement, and 'H' indicates the speed index, or requirement.  Although Michelin is certainly a well respected tire, it is on the high end of the price spectrum.  I recommend that you evaluate other consumer opinion's for similar 'class' tires on both 'The Tire Rack', and '1010tire' web sites (see links).  You need not spend more money for a higher 'speed rated' tire than 'H' speed rating).  As an expert on this site, I should maintain a neutral opinion for tire brands.

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/surveyresults/surveydisplay.jsp?type=HPAS
(see 1010tires.com) view tire ratings for 205/55R16)

Hope this helps...don't hesitate to contact me with any further questions.
DT