Austone taxi tire

[Shydog]

Am seriously considering the austone taxi tire to replace the E3 on my interstate and seen on the universal tire site that two versions of the taxi tire are available. The cheaper verison made in china and the more expensive one made in France. Anyone know if their is any benefit to purchasing the more expensive tire over the one made in China? Both versions seen to have the same load capacity, diameter, and width, but quality may be different. Anyone know the difference if any, other than price?

[CajunRider]

There are now two different manufacturers. 

The Austone sells for $152 while the new Dunlop sells for $221. 

I'd imagine the Dunlop is better quality, but it is new so I have not seen it, tested it, or know anyone who has. 

Up until recently, the Austone was the only option, so there are far more people using it. 

[Valkorado]

The profile, tread and specs for the two look almost identical.  The "Dunlop" is labeled Trident.  Probably not much difference, but I ordered the tried and favorably reviewed Austone.

[Tropic traveler]

Got two Austones today. 
Not quite ready to swap it out yet on Kim's Valk, looks like she has another 1-2K left on her Avon. Second one will most likely go on my '97 it's rear Avon is at 15K or so. Only have about 7K on the rear Avon on the '99, so it will be last unless I pick up another nail! 

[cantom]

Am seriously considering the austone taxi tire to replace the E3 on my interstate and seen on the universal tire site that two versions of the taxi tire are available. The cheaper verison made in china and the more expensive one made in France. Anyone know if their is any benefit to purchasing the more expensive tire over the one made in China? Both versions seen to have the same load capacity, diameter, and width, but quality may be different. Anyone know the difference if any, other than price?

Uggghhh...made in China?
I have a strong preference to avoid that in tires.(although, who knows, maybe they're fine)

 For the price difference between the Austone and the Made in France Dunlop Taxi Tire...I think it might well be worth it.