Few things i have noticed

[kenny]

888's are excellent but although cheaper than 48's they wear a bit faster I think, particularly on a hot track (less of an issue if you tend to drive on Scotland's cold and wet roads a lot)

R888's have always lasted better than 48's in my experience although I would agree they wear quickly once very hot.

[robin]

Interesting ... I think 888 have a lower tread wear rating than 48s, but then they're hardly accurate figures - if you're experience is typical, I guess it really doesn't make sense to buy 48's for use in Scotland!

Cheers,
Robin