Tires: michelin Harmony-Destiny, michelin brand, exact clone

Question
Hey Barry,

I'm in the market for new tires for my 2001 Honda Civic LX. I am impressed with the reviews I've read for the Michelin Harmony and am considering buying four new ones. A local retailer (discount tire) tells me that they sell a product that is an exact clone of the Hamony,a tire that still carries the Michelin Brand but is named the Destiny. This retailer is also currently out of the 185-70-14 size that is stock to the vehicle and assures me that a 195-70-14 will perform as well if not better than the narrower tire.

My question is...is the Destiny the exact same tire as the Harmony,are there likely to be any diferences in construction or compound that might affect performance,durability or warranty and am I likely to notice any substantial difference in economy,rolling resistance or wet wheather performance with the 195 width vs.the 185 width?
thanx
Steve

Answer
Steve,

Only the Michelin folks know for sure.

But it is possible and here's at least one way to add credence.  Check the UTQG ratings.  If they are significantly different, then they are probably not the same tire.  

Also, take a look at the physical appearance of the 2 tires.  Do the 2 tires look like they might be the same, but the molds are slightly different?

As far as the size goes.  I think going up in size is always a good idea, but you are going to lose some accuracy on your speedometer (reads about 2% too low), some wet and snow traction, however, the differences are small and everything else is pretty much the same.

Hope this helps.