Karl,

I am not into tire treads, so I have no idea of what you mean by 'old'
tread design.  I'd call it a strange tread design myself.

I've had the Conti's since last fall.  I bought them at my local Discount
Tire and paid around $53 each.

I have used Michelin 185R14 LT (load range C), Michelin 185R14 reinforced,
and Bridgestone 185R14 LT (load range C).  I preferred the reinforced tire
over the LT, and that is one reason that I bought the Conti's.  So far, I'd
call them the best tire yet.

Mike     '84GL    '58 BMW Isetta