I have an '05 CV Aero, that I drive in winter with snows. Also had a '01 9-5 with snow tires. To me snow tires seems like a no-brainer. They have significantly better traction/control on wet, icy or snowy roads. A few years ago there was a lengthy study in Road & Track comparing the same car with 2WD and snow tires, or 4WD with all season tires. So they were looking at various car makes that sell both a 2wd and 4wd version of the same car. Question was basically whether the 4wd improves winter performance or, because of the extra weight in the car, would it be better to have a light car with snows. The answer, as you can imagine, was if you have to climb uphill, get 4wd. If you are concerned about being able to stop, avoid an accident, maneuver, etc... go with the 2WD and snows.

The other thing, is that snows are FREE. Because the wear & longevity of tires depends mostly on mileage, and by switching the tires each winter, you are saving miles on your regular tires. So there's no effective cost.

Finally, the owners manual recommends a 1" narrower tire for winter. it's more conveniant to already have the snows mounted on their own wheels.

Last year, I bought snows from TireRack. I got General Arctic's. They also had alum wheels that looked very similar to my saab wheels for about $75 ea. As for the tires - SIGNIFICANTLY better traction and control on the roads. But I agree, they're a little squirly at high speeds. I don't drive them over 70. While that may be a pain, it's not much of price for the peace of mind when the whether is wet and I can't go 70 anyway.

posted by 68.61.20...

• Tires, syndi, Fri, 20 Nov 2009 23:45:52
  • Re: Tires, Depends on Location, All Seasons Maybe OK, Dave Chicago, Fri, 27 Nov 2009 09:49:19
  • Re: Tires, kkelley, Mon, 23 Nov 2009 21:13:49
    • Get Snow Tires, MJ, Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:22:57 <-- Viewing This Message
  • Re: Check out...., soccersaab, Sat, 21 Nov 2009 09:35:23
    • Re: Check out...., simul8guy, Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:28:42
  • Where? How much..., Stephen Goldberger, Sat, 21 Nov 2009 06:29:52

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