Consider that there is a range of ply materials, compounds, and tread designs available in a given size that is recommended for each specific vehicle. Unless I am driving at a closed course event I prefer a tire with a fairly high temp rating, a tread wear rating above 400, and a tread pattern with many narrow siping grooves. I have to consider the cost of fuel versus body damage. I did put some aluminum rims and Stage I tires on a '95 Prizm 5 spd with good results in terms of handling. Fuel economy stayed about the same. After 50+ years riding bikes I would advise that there is no simple answer to selecting the right tire for a given application. The trick is to find the right combination for the conditions.
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