Yes replaced 2 sets of tyres, one set was 14 the other 15 years old, Whilst dry road performance didn't seem too bad , the wet performance was terrible. The real difference (all things being equal) you will notice with new more supple sidewalls, the overall ride compliance and comfort increases. as the sidewall absorbs more of the road shock that would otherwise be transmitted thru the chassis with hardened sidewalls of your current tyres The wet weather grip and especially with changes in tyre technology since your tyres were manufactured should be very noticeable especially with the more premium brands.
At 23000 miles and 16 years you cant really complain, you have had your monies worth out of them. Go with 205/65 tyre that were fitted to the sport version as it does increase the ground clearance.
