i have a 20 year old Raleigh, and just a month ago i tried a set of Schwalbe CX Pro tires 1.35 inch (they are cyclocross, but high pressure). I pumped them up to the max - 95 psi, and wow - what a difference. I have been using that for my longer commutes where i want a bit more speed. Previously i had been running the Raleigh with a cheap pair of 1.25 inch Tioga city slickers but only up to 50 psi (the max rating) and they still rode like heavy tires. Major difference when riding a higher pressure tire. I just used them with the orginal wheels, fit no problem.

The Schwalbes cost a bit more than what i had budget ($35 each), but after putting in the set, I have absolutely no regrets - i just wish i hadn't waste my money on those crappy Tiogas.