Auto Racing: Tires, passenger car tires, nissan altima

Question
Hi, this isn't a racing question but deals with street cars. I'm trying to get an expert in the non-racing section but no one is available and its urgent. Would you be able to help me?

I own a nissan altima 98 SE and need to buy tires that are good in wet, dry and snow/ice conditions and good for long range. What features or things should i be looking for when i shop?

Also, are performance tires mainly good for dry conditions only?

My budget is 60-80 per tire. Any Tire recommendations?

I really appreciate your assistance. Take care and happy holidays.

Answer
Michael-

  Sorry for the delay in my answer time...apparently the site didn't send me your original question.  Everyday passenger car tires aren't really my specialty, but I believe I can help nonetheless.  Generally performance tires are only good in dry conditions, however some all-season performance tires are acceptable when the weather gets bad (although they're still not as good as a general purpose/all season passenger tire since their tread compounds are generally softer so they'll stick to dry roads better).  For 60-80 bucks per tire, your options are a bit limited.  I would go to www.tirerack.com or some place similar and use their search function to input what you want from the tires and go from there.  It's really a pretty good way to single out what's best for you.  Also, if long life is your goal, look at the UTOG rating.  Basically the higher the number, the longer the tire will last (however a higher number generally means a harder compund so handling might be slightly effected so it's good to find a nice mix).  I'd look at something in the range of 320 as far as UTOG ratings go.  Hope this helps.

Steve