In response to your question about traction in second gear. I'm running 315/35/17 Nitto 555 on the rear and if I'm on a good surface and the tires are warmed up I can mat the throttle and the car hooks up like a rocket. I'm running a 500HP FE backed up with a Tremec 5 speed and a Auburn Gear limited slip read end. If I'm on greasy asphalt or the tires are cold you definitely need to pay attention under hard acceleration as it will break traction. I have run both tires and I would buy the Nitto 555 again over the Michelin. From my experience I think the two tires are very similar in performance and the Nitto is about half of the price. Plus, Michelin has stopped producing a 315/35/17 in some of the Pilot Sport line and I can't go to a 335 due to clearance issues. There is a real nice set of 17 pin drive Shelby endorsed American Racing wheels and Nitto 555 tires up on Ebay. According to the listing they came from Bob Lacey at Vintage Wheel and were set up for a Superformance car so they should be a perfect fit for Pmans ride. I'm running this wheel and tire setup and they are a great wheel.here is the link to the EBay listing
17" Halibrand Wheels and Tires for AC Cobra Superformance Factory Five | eBay