Tires MICHELIN or KENDA

If it helps, I can tell you that Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 235/ 40 R18 tires on 18x8 ET 43 wheels fit perfectly on the MK6. My speedo is about 1.5mph off @ 70mph, according to my GPS. No rub, no nothing, just horrible road noise from 95Y rated tires.

Took the T-reg out on the country roads and I must say I love the feeling of the new Michelin tires, and of course how quiet they are.

look into lightweight battery (I run a Braille 21lbs in my Nismo) and tires...the Michelin Pilot SuperSports are pretty lightweight.

i've replaced some RFTs on my Z4 with Michelin Pilot SuperSports, and LOVE them, but i doubt they're in your < $500 budget..

+1 Had these swapped onto the GTI from the GLI that I traded. On both, they were transformational. Exceptional dry grip, and almost as good in the rain. Amazingly low tire noise and pretty decent tread wear so far.

Michelin Pilot Super Sports. They are probably the best tire on the market. Fairly low noise as far as summer tires go. They grip well in the dry and the rain.

Neuspeed RSe12 wheels with Michelin Pilot 4S tires

instead of so-so ContiProContacts, my baby is now sporting top-of-the-line treads - Michelin Primacy MXM's.

I have Michelin Pilot HX MXM4s on right now, and they're a nice tire.

I can only speak re: the PS2's. Had them on my S2000 for track duty. Unbelievable grip once their hot. Key point here. They're risky as daily drivers, and use caution about driving in the rain - it's like ice. If they're cold (like anytime their not warmed by a few yellow-laps), they are slick. Pardon if I didn't read all of your question, if you want the most adhesive track tire out there, go for it. I did use them as daily drivers, they were fine, but could bite you.