edict,

Yes, there is a world of difference between all season and dedicated snow/ice tires. I have gone through a couple of sets or Pirelli's on my Audi Quattro and felt like I could climb a tree. I need to get a new set this winter and I think I'll try the newer Bridgestone Blizzak MZ-02 tires.

I put on a set of Michelin Artic-Alpins on my wife's fwd car and they were wonderful -- fairly quiet, good tracking and very good on icy roads around town.

You won't regret your decision to get a dedicated set of winter wheels/tires. Good luck.