Can it be driven in the snow? Sure with the right winter tires. As a NE/Mid-Atlantic guy I would not want to personally and would invest in a beater. Even with snows they are very wide, and its a low car. Heavy snow = snow plow.
A second set of RIMS (used, easy to buy) with HP A/S tires allow for cold weather/dry time with no salt. Stock 18's will fit over sport breaks
The S04s are much better then OEM, no question. More grip, more compliant.
- b