michelin & continental use a silica reinforced rubber vs. most others
that still use carbon.  the advantage of the silica reinforced compound
is that it allows optimum rolling resistance to coincide with optimum
wet grip, something not possible with carbon compounds where you can
have wet grip /or/ low rolling resistance, but not both.  it might not
make a huge difference at the gas pedal, but if it a wet-safe tire saves
$100 in gas over its life through lower rolling resistance, it pays for
itself, right?

did you try www.tirerack.com? they have survey comparisons....
if you did...then I'd go with Traction T/A. if you're driving in a lot
of snow, then get a snow tire. but i drive BFG in 6in-1feet snow and
i'm fine. in a 2001 Accord.....
Tractions have more road noise than Michelin Energy MXV4 and are
stiffer. Even at 30psi.

I have the Traction T/A's on my car.  They work fine in snow, but once it
gets really heavy (I live in northern Michigan), no all-season is going to
work well.  I've been very happy with the tires.  I have stayed away from
Michelin's.  They are great tires, but seem to wear out much faster than
they should (and I don't really drive all that aggressively).

Make sure you keep the T/A's inflated properly.  My 225/60-15's need around
34-35 psi.

Bill G