I've done my homework and research and am down to either the Direzza Sport F1 Star Spec or RE760 Sport...I realize these tires aren't direct competitors but they're both similarly priced. Either set would be the standard AP2 size 215/45 FR and 245/40 RR.

My top priorities would be treadwear, noise, and grip/feeling (in no particular order). The S is my summer fun car, I drive it 70 miles to work approx 2-3 days per week between March-ish and October-ish. I don't do any autocrossing or track days, just fun/spirited driving on back country roads. Wet weather isn't a huge concern since this is a 2nd car, only thing there would be enough confidence to get home should I get stuck in a downpour.

I've read all the other threads out there, all I'm looking for is any useful experience comparing these to each other or back to the RE050s.

*Car has 18k miles on the OEM RE050s and is lowered w/ UK alignment on Eibachs.

 

Not sure where you read that the Star Spec and RE760 are direct competitors. The Star Spec falls under the Extreme Performance Summer tires. Not sure if you're talking about the RE070 or possibly the RE11?

The Star Spec is a direct competitor with those tires along with a couple more. Either way, the Star Spec is an awesome tire, even for daily driving. Only drawback is the tread life along with your typical soft compound tire noise after a few thousand miles.

 

Sorry, I mis-spelled my original post...I meant they "aren't" direct competitors...I am talking about the RE760Sport though.

I appreciate the help though, from my understanding the Star Spec is better grip but more noise + treadwear, while the RE760Sport is opposite...as would be expected.

 

Given that you are looking for tread life and low noise I like the RE760 Sport. They are a good handling tire, not great, but will give you the other things you are looking for. There is also a 50.00 mail in rebate on those at this time.
If I can help just let me know.