Are you weighing the merits of the Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT against the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S for your vehicle? Whether you’re navigating wet city streets or enjoying a dry, winding road, understanding how these tires perform under different conditions will guide you to the perfect choice for your driving needs.
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S excels in both wet and dry conditions with superior traction, comfort, and durability, supported by a mileage warranty. The Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT offers commendable dry condition performance at a potentially lower price point but lacks in wet performance and treadwear guarantee.
In this article, we compare the Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S, detail their strengths and weaknesses, explore other competitive options in the high-performance summer tire category, and provide resources to help you make an informed decision.
Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.2 of 10
Wet Weather
8.3 of 10
Winter Weather
N/A
Tread Wear
7.3 of 10
Dry Weather
8.9 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.2 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 240
UTQG Traction Rating: AA
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
None
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.3 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.2 of 10
Cornering: 8.8 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.0 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.8 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: N/A
Heavy Snow Grip: N/A
Ice Grip: N/A
Comfort Level: 8.2 of 10
Road Noise: 8.2 of 10
The Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT is designed for the driver who loves the thrill of the road and demands high performance from their tires in dry conditions. Here’s a breakdown of how the Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT performs across various parameters:
Wet and Dry Performance
- Wet Performance:
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.3/10
- Wet Traction: 8.2/10
- Dry Performance:
- Corner Stability: 8.8/10
- Dry Traction: 9.0/10
- Steering Response: 8.8/10
These tires perform reliably in wet conditions with a commendable resistance to hydroplaning. However, it’s in dry conditions that the SP Sport Maxx GT truly shines, providing excellent traction and stable cornering capabilities. The steering response is agile, making it a top pick for enthusiasts who crave a spirited driving experience.
Comfort
- Ride Quality: 8.2/10
- Noise Level: 8.2/10
The ride quality and noise levels are decent, making this tire a good option for both spirited drives and daily commuting. While it may not be the quietest tire on the market, it strikes a reasonable balance between performance and comfort.
Treadwear
- Treadwear Rating: 7.3/10
- Warranty Mileage: Not applicable
This is where the SP Sport Maxx GT might not impress everyone. With a treadwear rating of 7.3 and no warranty on mileage, these tires are best suited for drivers who prioritize performance over longevity.
Pros
- Excellent dry traction and corner stability.
- Good hydroplaning resistance and wet traction.
- Responsive steering enhances driving pleasure.
Cons
- Moderate noise levels might not appeal to all.
- Lower treadwear rating; lacks a mileage warranty, suggesting quicker wear.
In essence, the Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT is ideal for drivers who desire robust performance in dry conditions and are willing to compromise slightly on noise and tread life. Now, let’s compare this to the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S to see how they stack up against each other.
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.8 of 10
Wet Weather
8.9 of 10
Winter Weather
N/A
Tread Wear
8.1 of 10
Dry Weather
9.5 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.8 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 300
UTQG Traction Rating: AA
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 30,000 Miles
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.9 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.8 of 10
Cornering: 9.5 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.6 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.5 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: N/A
Heavy Snow Grip: N/A
Ice Grip: N/A
Comfort Level: 8.9 of 10
Road Noise: 8.7 of 10
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S is a formidable contender in the high-performance tire segment, renowned for its superior handling and durability across both wet and dry conditions. Here’s a detailed examination of its performance metrics:
Wet and Dry Performance
- Wet Performance:
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.8/10
- Wet Traction: 8.9/10
- Dry Performance:
- Corner Stability: 9.5/10
- Dry Traction: 9.6/10
- Steering Response: 9.5/10
This tire excels in both rain and shine. It offers exceptional hydroplaning resistance and wet traction, ensuring safety and control during rainy drives. In dry conditions, the Pilot Sport 4S is almost unrivaled, with top marks in traction, corner stability, and steering response. This makes it a top choice for performance enthusiasts who need a reliable tire that performs consistently well in all types of weather.
Comfort
- Ride Quality: 8.9/10
- Noise Level: 8.6/10
Michelin doesn’t just focus on performance. The Pilot Sport 4S also delivers on comfort, with high ratings in ride quality and a lower noise level compared to many competitors. This blend of comfort and performance makes it an excellent choice for daily driving and spirited sessions alike.
Treadwear
- Treadwear Rating: 8.1/10
- Warranty Mileage: 30,000 miles
The durability of the Pilot Sport 4S is highlighted by its respectable treadwear rating and the inclusion of a 30,000-mile warranty. This warranty underlines Michelin’s confidence in this tire’s longevity, especially appealing for drivers who are concerned about the lifespan of their high-performance tires.
Pros
- Superior dry and wet traction ensures optimal driving in all conditions.
- Excellent cornering stability and responsive steering enhance driver confidence.
- Good ride quality and manageable noise levels contribute to a pleasant driving experience.
- Reasonable treadwear rating paired with a mileage warranty offers added value.
Cons
- Premium pricing might deter some budget-conscious consumers.
- While noise levels are competitive, some drivers might seek an even quieter ride.
To sum up, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S stands out with its exceptional performance in diverse weather conditions, combined with high comfort and durability standards. This tire is designed for drivers who demand the best from their vehicle, whether cruising on the highway or navigating challenging backroads.
Comparative Analysis
When choosing between the Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT and the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S, it’s crucial to consider how each tire performs under various conditions and what each brand brings to the table in terms of benefits and potential drawbacks. This section provides a side-by-side comparison to aid in making a well-informed decision.
Performance in Wet Conditions
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4S:
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.8/10
- Wet Traction: 8.9/10
- Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT:
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.3/10
- Wet Traction: 8.2/10
Comparison: The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S slightly outperforms the Dunlop in wet conditions, offering better hydroplaning resistance and traction. This makes the Michelin a safer and more reliable choice in rainy weather.
Performance in Dry Conditions
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4S:
- Corner Stability: 9.5/10
- Dry Traction: 9.6/10
- Steering Response: 9.5/10
- Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT:
- Corner Stability: 8.8/10
- Dry Traction: 9.0/10
- Steering Response: 8.8/10
Comparison: In dry conditions, the Michelin again holds the edge with superior corner stability and steering response, ensuring a crisp, responsive driving experience that enthusiasts will appreciate. The Dunlop, while competent, does not match the Michelin’s high level of precision and control.
Comfort and Ride Quality
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4S:
- Ride Quality: 8.9/10
- Noise Level: 8.6/10
- Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT:
- Ride Quality: 8.2/10
- Noise Level: 8.2/10
Comparison: Michelin also takes the lead in comfort, with a higher ride quality score and better noise control, making it more suitable for drivers who spend a lot of time on the road and prioritize a smoother, quieter ride.
Durability and Treadwear
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4S:
- Treadwear Rating: 8.1/10
- Warranty Mileage: 30,000 miles
- Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT:
- Treadwear Rating: 7.3/10
- Warranty Mileage: None
Comparison: Michelin’s higher treadwear rating and the inclusion of a mileage warranty reflect its superior durability and value over time compared to the Dunlop, which does not offer a mileage warranty and has a lower treadwear rating.
Pros and Cons Summary
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S:
- Pros: Exceptional wet and dry performance, high comfort levels, good durability with a mileage warranty.
- Cons: Premium cost.
Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT:
- Pros: Strong performance in dry conditions, moderately good in wet, balanced comfort.
- Cons: Lower treadwear rating, no mileage warranty, and slightly noisier.
Choosing Between the Two
Choosing the right tire depends on your specific needs:
- For Performance Enthusiasts: If you prioritize peak performance under various conditions, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S is the clear choice, offering top-tier traction and stability.
- For Daily Drivers: Those who need a reliable tire for everyday use but want to maintain good performance might lean towards the Michelin for its comfort and durability, despite its higher price.
- Budget Considerations: If budget constraints are significant, the Dunlop offers a decent alternative, although it falls short in several key areas compared to the Michelin.
Other Competitors in the Market
While the Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT and the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S are standout choices in the high-performance summer tire category, several other tires also deserve consideration. This section will introduce key competitors, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses compared to our primary models.
Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02
Performance Scores:
- Wet: 8.9 (Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.8, Wet Traction: 8.9)
- Dry: 9.4 (Corner Stability: 9.4, Dry Traction: 9.4, Steering Response: 9.3)
- Comfort: 8.8 (Ride Quality: 8.9, Noise: 8.8)
- Treadwear: 7.9, Warranty Mileage: 30,000 Miles
Pros:
- Excellent balance of wet and dry performance.
- Very good comfort ratings, making it suitable for everyday driving.
- Competitive treadwear and included mileage warranty.
Cons:
- Slightly lower dry performance ratings compared to the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S.
Bridgestone Potenza Sport
Performance Scores:
- Wet: 8.7 (Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.7, Wet Traction: 8.7)
- Dry: 9.2 (Corner Stability: 9.2, Dry Traction: 9.2, Steering Response: 9.2)
- Comfort: 8.3 (Ride Quality: 8.4, Noise: 8.1)
- Treadwear: 7.2, Warranty Mileage: None
Pros:
- Consistent performance in both wet and dry conditions.
- Good handling and stability.
Cons:
- Comfort levels and noise might not be ideal for all drivers.
- Lacks a treadwear warranty, which might concern long-term users.
Yokohama ADVAN Apex V601
Performance Scores:
- Wet: 8.0 (Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.0, Wet Traction: 8.1)
- Dry: 9.0 (Corner Stability: 9.0, Dry Traction: 9.0, Steering Response: 9.0)
- Comfort: 8.2 (Ride Quality: 8.3, Noise: 8.1)
- Treadwear: 7.4, Warranty Mileage: 25,000 Miles
Pros:
- Solid performance in dry conditions with good overall stability.
- Includes a warranty mileage which is somewhat rare in this category.
Cons:
- Weaker wet performance which might be a dealbreaker in rainy climates.
- Slightly lower comfort ratings compared to the leaders.
Summary and Recommendations
Each of these competitors offers a unique set of features that might appeal to different types of drivers:
- For Balanced Everyday Use: The Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 provides a good mix of performance, comfort, and durability, making it an excellent choice for most drivers.
- For Dry Weather Enthusiasts: Drivers who prioritize dry performance might prefer the Pirelli P Zero for its superior traction and responsiveness under those conditions.
- For Versatile Performers: The Bridgestone Potenza Sport offers good all-around capabilities, suitable for those who experience varied weather conditions.
- For Budget-Conscious Buyers: The Yokohama ADVAN Apex V601 offers a reasonable compromise between performance and cost, especially with its inclusion of a mileage warranty.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires:
Final Thoughts
Deciding between the Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S comes down to prioritizing certain aspects of tire performance. If you value exceptional handling and longer tread life, particularly in variable weather conditions, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S is the superior choice, albeit at a higher price point. For drivers who focus mainly on dry conditions and may prefer to save on upfront costs, the Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT offers solid performance but with compromises in wet traction and no treadwear warranty.
It’s also worth considering other competitors in the market like the Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 or the Bridgestone Potenza Sport, depending on your specific driving conditions and budget constraints. Each tire has its set of advantages that might suit different driving preferences and requirements.
Good luck and happy motoring.
