I've recently ordered a 2000 E320. I'd like to specify while I have the leverage that the dealer put on tires that make little or no noise (I like listening to classical music) and yet provide a smooth ride with good road-holding capability. Are the Michilin MXV4's the tire of choice for this combination of desired traits? Or are there other comparable or better tires out there that offer better combinations of quiet, smooth ride, and road grip.

Thanks in advance for any advice you might offer.

Robert

I had Energy MXV4's on my previous car ('96 E320) and enjoyed the confortable, quiet ride. Although they lack somewhat in performance, they do last a long time. I would purchase them again, unless I was considering more performance. Check out www.Tirerack.com. I'm sure they have great comparisons on these tires.

Eric

___________
'00 E430
'99 SLK230 Sport

Go with the Michelin Energy MXV4's. They are hands down the best touring tire money can buy. They are just as quiet and comfy as the Conti's but handle leagues better. Given the priorities you mentioned, there is really no better option in my experience.

Hope this helps...Lee

My biggest complaint with my 1998 E320 is the road noise generated from my MXV4 Michelin tires. I complained from day 2 to my dealer, who never worked out any arrangement for the replacement with a quieter tire. From my research on the subject, here's what I can tell you:
MXV4 - Great performance tire (cornering)
- *** Extremely *** loud tire on concrete pavement

Goodyear Eagle LS (what's on the 2000 S-Class) is a tire that is "supposed" to be extremely quiet at $149 each with no treadwear warranty - that's what I'm told.

Bridgestone Turanza - Excellent tire - had a set before. Extremely quiet ride (has noise cancellation technology - trust me), but lacks in the "performance" area. Doesn't corner well, etc. $165 each - Unlimited lifetime guarantee. Read about it at www.turanza.com.

So the question is: spend $149 each for a
tire (Goodyear) that might last 30K miles (with perhaps better performance characteristics), or spend $165 for a tire (Bridgestone) that might last 80K miles or more.

I'll never own another set of Michelin's, and I'm quite suprised that a car which sells for $49K would have as much interior noise on the highway as mine has. It's deafening after driving for 6 hours. I know it's the tires.

[This message has been edited by DavidT (edited 01-12-2000).]

[This message has been edited by DavidT (edited 01-12-2000).]