That's a bit unfair to Conti's I reckon. Maybe they do have some that are made in China (I haven't seen one), but Continental are a top class German tyre manufacturer, with a good reputation for grip in the wet, etc.
At the same time the ones mentioned are probably more a touring tyre and may not be suitable for the WRX (owner's decision), but they are generally a high quality tyre.
IMO, the reason they are quite cheap now is because they are getting distributed by Bob Janes, whereas a few years ago there was only a few exclusive dealers in Aust.
I had them as O.E. on my wifes 2004 Renault, but firstly replaced them with Toyos because the Conti's were $250 per corner (for a shopping car!). Next time I was able to get them from BJ at less than $150 each, big difference. These ones are actually made in Portugal, but geez, the last Michelins I had were made in Thailand (and they were crap).

Cheers.

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