Winter Tires; What model and size B5 A4?

[Tihol Tiholov]

Since this t(h)read still goes on ...

 >New snow: narrow with wide open treads.
Snowpacked roads: less aggressive on the lugs and get a bigger patch down.
Always use the softest compound.
For folks like me who could scarcely afford one set it was always a
compromise.

All of the above is true, now to real life:
For the A4 B5 I'd first look for a set of 195/65X15 wheels and tires with
decent tread left and for a good price. Must avoid spirited cornering on
dry roads with those but will work well in all other winter conditions.
Compromise: get 205/55X16 to use on your 16" wheels. Wish there were
195/60X16 but haven't seen such size yet.
I wouldn't even think of using 17", unless you find them at a very good
price and don't get much driving on fresh snow in your area.

HTH from Canada

-- 
Tihol