ice/snow/rain is tricky. for what it's worth, we have 2 D2's and a rear wheel drive wagon. the first snow we got, up here, was on a friday which is pizza lunch at the shop. i headed out, for pizza, in my D2, swamper bias 36" no abs, i was sideways as soon as i got out of the shop. headed back to the shop and got the wife's D2, stock 32" bfg at's brand new at that, i made it a little farther but almost went into a ditch, luckily i was able to turn around and get back to the shop.
my wife's wagon, with michelin x-ice tires, handled as if it was an all drive rally car.
my point is, the winter tire compound is softer and the tread pattern is specific for light snow and slush. as for ice, you need studded tires, but be careful on dry pavement.
if you have the coin, getting a set of winter tires on steelies is a good safe option for cold weather, especially if you are looking for safety.