Tire model/brand does make a difference !
Go
here and read the sections on tire rating.
Short answer, when buying tires look for one with a "high" treadwear rating. The higher the better. This number is stamped right on the tire.
Michelin X tires (sold at Sams Club and Costco) have a 80K mile limted warranty and a treadwear rating of 740 ! They aren't cheap and, yes, they probably have a bit less dry traction than the Pirellis.
