When I was negotiating to purchase my '04 XF, there were 2 that I was looking at, Graphite and Red. I wanted the Graphite (higher mileage) but told the dealer that I wanted the tires from the Red one (lower mileage). They agreed but rather than switching the tires they simply switched the wheels. (I understand the work that would have been involved with mounting, balancing, etc. 8 tires.) I got the tires with a lot less miles but later I realized that all 4 rims had a bad case of curb rash. It kept bugging me since the car itself was perfect. I finally decided what the heck they can only say "no" so I called them, admitted I was being a PITA but "would they switch them back again?" This was 3 weeks later but without hesitation they said sure. They said they would have to charge me but I said "no problem." Got it done this morning for $60. Much nicer (perfect) rims but higher mileage tires. I'm happy. The main point to this post is to let you know that IMHO the Michelins, which are on my car right now, are MUCH BETTER riding, handling, etc. then the Contis that I drove during the past 3 weeks. Now I just have to start saving my $$ because I will have to replace these sooner than the Contis. Oh well, at least the new tires will be going on nice rims!

 

A good example of max performance summer tires versus all-season tires. Thanks, Fenwick223!

 

That's really good service from your dealer.
When I bought my car the lacquer was going funny on the rear rims and I asked if they would switch them with another car on there lot and they said no.
I've since had the rims replaced under warranty.

Norrie.

 

I can't complain about Michelin tires... I was doing pretty good holding 110 through the two banked high speed turns at California Speedway with Pilot Sport All Seasons.

Didn't do too badly through the road course portion either.

 

Why were there Contis tires on there? Though all 04's and all Xfires come with Mich PS.

 

I believe that the Red XF was an '05. As I mentioned in my original post, part of the "deal" was that I wanted the tires off the Red one because they had less wear.

 

Any more opinions from people that have driven these cars with BOTH types of OEM tires on them?

 

You had the option of Continental all-season tires.

 

Mine were not OEM... but were purchased by me in place of the ContiTouring tires in preparation for my trip around Christmas holiday.

 

My SRT came with Contis and when they wear out I am likely going to switch to the Michelins and some new rims to go along...

Most of us don't drive the car all season, I personally do not even drive the car when it is raining for this reason I see no purpose in all season tires...

 

I have PS2's. Live in AZ. I love them. Have not driven on Conti's so I can't compare. I did have to buy a set. Bought from DC dealer for
about $1,200... They were cheaper than any place around...

 

My leased '04 coupe came with Contis, and I believe it was an $800 option. They didn't last long, but I thought they held the road great.

 

My SRT6 came with Michelin PS2's and I don't think they get as good of a bite on the road as the conti's did on my 04 coupe, but the SRT6 has alot more power.

 

~ the only optional tires were the conti all-season tires at the price of $185.

 

My '04 coupe came with michelins and my SRT6 that I just got this weekend came with Contis. The michelins on my '04 xfire don't hold the road as well as the Contis on my srt6, but the michelins are pretty worn and the contis have only 3,000 miles on them. I think the SRT6 would handle better with any tire over a limited xfire though. I will probably put the contis on my '04 xfire, and put some new michelins on my SRT6. And if my SRT6 doesn't handle better then I will switch back.

 

Being here in Michigan and driving all year long, the ASP tires made more sense...although even these tires suck in 2 inches or more of snow! To be honest...The conti's have great grip in the rear, very little tire spin with the traction control switched off and dumping the clutch. 2 to 3 feet of tire spin and they hook up and launch the car. The fronts seem to push a little too easy, but once again, Michigan roads!

 

Question about your signature:
Hennessy tuned Xfire? Please explain.