I am going to replace the tires on my 2005 S-Type V8 with high performance summer tires. Does anyone have recommendations? Some of the models recommended on The Tire Rack web site are the Continental ExtremeContact DW, and the BFGoodrich g-Force T/A KDW 2.
The roads here in Los Angeles tend to flood in the rain, so I suppose that good performance in a few inches of water is the most important feature.
Thanks for your help!

 

Bridgestone RE-11's are still the best out there hands down. Wet or dry they dont care, they just grip like an animal with 4 inch claws. They wear fast and have slightly elevated road noise, but hey if you like to play with twisties they take no prisoners.
Deep standing water might show a little weakness but RE-11 certainly gave me no problems even in heavy downpours.(We Washingtonians have a skewed view of what Southern Cal folks would call rain.... as we are nearly triple your annual numbers up here.)

For less performance and better wear, i think the Contis would be a great choice, sadly I have never driven on them, only the DWS all seasons.
Despite my dislike of the Michelin line, the Pilot Sport PS2s seem to have a strong and faithful following as well.

No need for you to even consider an all season living that far south (lucky you!).

Best of luck in your decision.
Vince

 

I went ahead and bought the Continental ExtremeContact DWs. I haven't owned them long enough to form an opinion, although the first ride was pretty nice. It is notable that they have a slightly thinner profile than the Michelin Pilots they replaced. I like it - the rims look better.