I still can't believe 185/60r14 are suggested to be rare, aside from the fact most newer cars don't use 14's any more. So many cars have used them in the past. VW, chevy, etc.

My suggestion to you is to shop eBay, tires-easy.com, discounttiredirect.com, even tire rack and possibly do a general google shopping search. Don't pick sites that you feel uncomfortable with, or that do not allow you to pay through paypal. (I always use paypal for a level of protection online). Shop tire specs, pick a tread design based off preference, (V grove, touring, etc). But the specs you want to look at for longevity is strictly tread wear. The higher the number the longer the tire should last.

Stores like firestone, goodyear, etc sell tires that are 30, 50, 60k mile tires.. That is total BS. If you want a long lasting tire, your performance suffers some. 500+ tread wear should last a long time, but will not stick to the road. <300 tread wear will not last long at all. I typically buy around a 250-350 (300 preferred) for my cars, but 400-500 for my wife's car. I do not care much about name of the brands, as long as they are DOT approved and offer the specs they have lasted generally as well as most $$ tires with a brand you hear regularly.

Firestone, walmart, sears all install tires for about $120. So add that to your cost. Walmart tires online can be installed by them if you deliver to store, same with sears. That makes it slightly easier for general buyers. They often have good prices on tires as well when looking online.

Remember though, knowing the tread wear specs is important. If the tire does not tell you, and you cannot find it in a separate search, don't buy it.