Was the chassis number partly painted over? In the photograph I see '1 4 1'.

My 1997 Tdi has just had the old Pirelli Scorpion STR replaced with 4x Pirelli Scorpion ATR 235/70x16 (road, mild offroad, M+S). My first experience is excellent for low noise, good comfort and grip. There is also a non-M+S version called Verde.