I have noticed too that in many comparisons done among stock Bimmers, Benzes, Audis, etc.; the Audi usually has thinner V-rated footwear while the others often have wider and sometimes even stickier Z-rated shoes. Methinks the Audis do fairly well, considering. JP Mahala (jpmahala@juno.com) 91 Coupe Quattro w/ 225/50 tires on 15" wheels (they were on the car when I bought it.)