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I am also right now in the process of getting tires/tyres. Whenever I call the wholesalers of tires (Tire Direct, Tire rack, Euro Tire), they have told me that Michelin is the only mfr. making the Volvo 240 OEM metric size of 185/SR14, in their "MX4 Rain Force." If you have ABS brakes this tire is a good choice. But if not, beware they will prove to be a "mixed bag" in rain handling, especially if you are an aggressive driver.
Previously, I took Consumer Reports recommendations on the Michelin "MXV4+ Energy Plus" and put four of them on our 740, and they seem to be doing well. But CR warned about using the MX4, Rain Force on non-ABS vehicles. I found out that Michelin has not tested this tire on non-ABS vehicles, and therefore have different test results. CR recommended the Pirelli P400's #1 All Season Tire with a touring tire speed rating, now for four years in a row. The only drawback is they do not make it in the 240 OEM size. The closest overall replacement diameter is the 195/75-14, 1/10th of an inch less, at 25.5., as compared to 25.6 OEM. The other choices of 195/70, 205/70, etc. are not as close to the 195/75 in diameter.
But the 195/75's are also 10 mm wider, which gives some handling improvement without adding to what is termed "under the axle weight" which when you increase the width too much, and therefore increase tire weight, it adds to rolling resistance and is like adding two more passengers to your car. If it wasn't for the CR warning about the Michelin MX4 on non ABS cars I would be getting them. I am a Michelin Tire person, and usually get good results with them. But I know there are lots of other good tires out there besides Michelin. I just can't risking my life and property on these MX4's, even if it is somewhat exaggerated. You never know when you need to stop in an emergency.
On the other hand, I sure wish there was more OEM size choices, in top quality tires - I don't like the catch-22 limited choices I had. So my general advice is for the Pirelli P400's. They seem to be the lesser of two evils. But as one of the other guys said, it really all depends on how you are using the tires. Mileage? Dry Performance? Wet? All Terrain? BTW, I use the Swedish Gislaveds in the winter, and take off the all seasons - excellent tires!
If you find any real exceptional tires let us all know.
Later.
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