Tire Noise/Cupping on Sport Wheels/Tires?
 

A co-worker in my office has a E320 (W211) with the Sport wheel/tire package. (He's a techno-phobe, so I'm investigating this for him)

His first tires (H-rated Contis) wore over time in such a way that they had a terrible droning/hum after about 10k miles. He took it to the dealer, and they advised that Contis do that, and he should change to Michelin. He waited 'till the Contis were shot (they got progressively louder until he changed them) to replace them.

He then bought a set of Michelins, which immediately eliminated the droning/hum. 10k miles later, the tires are worn slightly (feathered at the edges), and they are droning to the point that it sounds like a 4x4 going down the road.

Has anyone else (with Sport wheels/tires) experienced this? Is it normal for this car/package? Any recommendations for tires that ride well, and stay quiet?

Any advice, recommendations, or comments are appreciated.

This is usually exacerbated, if not outright caused, by wheel alignment problems - particularly incorrect toe settings. In effect, the tires get dragged down the road sideways which causes abnormal wear patterns. Since your friend's car has had this occur with two different brands of tire, I'd put alignment down as my prime suspect.

Also suggest earlier tire rotation if they are non-directional tires. ;)