Some of your tire suggestions are terrible for the Esprit.
One of the worst tires I've ever run on a sports car,and I can furnish links to threads were others agree, is the Pirelli Zero anything,as you named them.I'd run anything before I'd ever put those on a sports car again
They have a very nasty habit of tram lining if you're entering a turn at speed and hit a bump.They lasted less then 2 weeks on my last 911.
In regards to Pilot sports,
Had those as fronts when I purchased my Esprit(they were new). Changing to 452's was a dramatic improvement in handling. They track better by a large margin.
Now, in regards to the 452's,
They are not quiet,nor are they a soft ride. 10 to 12 Thousand is about the most you can hope for. 8 is ,in my opinion. more likely. For me, that is about 3 years worth of driving in my Esprit.
Handling on the 452's, I'd be happy to point you to numerous threads(read in the 100's. One thread was 286 positive posts) regarding their handling. They are an incredible bargain for a great handling tire.
You stated you are a mechanic as your source of knowledge.In that case,I imagine I should state my background.
My father sent me to a drivers racing school at the age of eighteen. I am now 65.During the time between those ages, I have owned, and raced nothing but European sports cars
To name a few,numerous 911's, many Jags(XKE ,XK120),Lotus Europa,Ferrari 330GTC,The original Audi Quattro.I could go on and name others if you wish.
The number of tracks I've raced at is extensive to say the least.
So ,in conclusion, although you may have experience in the shop as to what wears well. My experience is, a life times worth of road and track use.
Alan