The Michelins are sure as heck not normal 30s (more like fat 35s). The Tufos seem to be pretty close to "normal". I had a set of Tioga 30s that were more like 25s!

The Elites have pretty delicate casings. The Prestige is more robust. Personally, it all depends on how upset you'll be if you trash one. I tore open the casing of an Elite and was pretty pissed (given the $) but what do you expect with such a light tire, right? Most of my Tufos are Pros. Rock solid and tough.