Considering the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP or the Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP for your vehicle but unsure which is the better fit? You’re not alone. With so many high-performance tires on the market, making a choice can feel overwhelming.
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP excels in dry performance and comfort, while the Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP offers slightly better wet performance and handling. Both are excellent choices for high-speed stability and control, but your decision will depend on your specific driving needs.
In this article, we’ll dive into the key features, performance metrics, and real-world feedback on both the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP and the Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP. You’ll learn how they stack up against each other and find out which one suits your driving style and conditions best.
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.64 of 10
Wet Weather
8.7 of 10
Winter Weather
N/A
Treadwear
8.1 of 10
Dry Weather
9.6 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.9 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: 8.7 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.7 of 10
Cornering: 9.6 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.6 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.8 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: N/A
Heavy Snow Grip: N/A
Ice Grip: N/A
Comfort Level: 8.9 of 10
Road Noise: 8.9 of 10
Product Description
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP is a top-tier tire engineered for enthusiasts who crave superior performance and reliability. This max performance summer run-flat tire is designed for high-end sports cars and performance sedans, ensuring excellent handling and stability at high speeds. Whether you’re hitting the track or enjoying a spirited drive on winding roads, the Pilot Sport 4S ZP delivers an exhilarating driving experience.
Key Features
- Max Performance: The Pilot Sport 4S ZP is built for drivers who demand the best in handling and stability. Its advanced tread design and high-performance compound offer outstanding grip on dry and wet roads.
- Run-Flat Technology: This tire features Michelin’s Zero Pressure (ZP) technology, allowing you to continue driving for a limited distance after a puncture, providing peace of mind on your journeys.
- Enhanced Wet Performance: The tire’s asymmetric tread design and wide circumferential grooves enhance wet traction and reduce the risk of hydroplaning, ensuring safety in rainy conditions.
- Comfort and Noise Reduction: Michelin has incorporated their Acoustic Technology into the Pilot Sport 4S ZP to minimize road noise and vibrations, offering a quieter, more comfortable ride.
- Durability: Constructed with Michelin’s premium materials, this tire offers a longer tread life compared to other high-performance tires, making it a cost-effective choice for performance enthusiasts.
Performance Breakdown
Wet Performance (8.6)
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.6
- Wet Traction: 8.6
The Pilot Sport 4S ZP excels in wet conditions with solid hydroplaning resistance and wet traction. Think of it as having reliable rain boots – keeping you steady and secure even when the roads are slick.
Dry Performance (9.7)
- Corner Stability: 9.7
- Dry Traction: 9.7
- Steering Response: 9.7
On dry roads, the Pilot Sport 4S ZP is in its element. With high ratings in corner stability, dry traction, and steering response, it’s like driving a precision instrument – every turn feels sharp and controlled.
Winter/Snow Performance
- Light Snow Traction: N/A
- Deep Snow Traction: N/A
- Ice Traction: N/A
The Pilot Sport 4S ZP isn’t designed for winter conditions. If you face snowy or icy roads, it’s best to look for a dedicated winter tire.
Comfort (8.9)
- Ride Quality: 8.9
- Noise: 8.9
This tire provides a comfortable ride with reduced noise levels. It’s like driving with noise-cancelling headphones – peaceful and smooth, even on longer journeys.
Treadwear (8.1)
Built to last, the Pilot Sport 4S ZP offers good treadwear, making it a durable option that delivers excellent value over time.
Pros
- Exceptional dry performance with superb cornering and steering response
- Reliable wet traction and hydroplaning resistance
- Comfortable and quiet ride
- Run-flat technology for added peace of mind
Cons
- Not suitable for winter or snowy conditions
Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.7 of 10
Wet Weather
8.4 of 10
Winter Weather
N/A
Treadwear
7.9 of 10
Dry Weather
9.1 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.5 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
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.4 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.4 of 10
Cornering: 8.9 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.1 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.8 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: N/A
Heavy Snow Grip: N/A
Ice Grip: N/A
Comfort Level: 8.5 of 10
Road Noise: 8.3 of 10
Product Description
The Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP is crafted for drivers seeking a blend of ultimate performance and durability. This max performance summer run-flat tire is tailored for high-performance vehicles, offering excellent handling and control at high speeds. Whether you’re navigating sharp turns or cruising on the highway, the Pilot Super Sport ZP ensures an exhilarating and stable driving experience.
Key Features
- High Performance: The Pilot Super Sport ZP is designed to provide superior handling and stability. Its advanced tread compound and design offer excellent grip on both dry and wet surfaces.
- Run-Flat Capability: Featuring Michelin’s Zero Pressure (ZP) technology, this tire allows continued driving after a puncture, providing added safety and convenience.
- Enhanced Durability: This tire is built with a robust construction, offering longer tread life and durability compared to other performance tires.
- Improved Wet Traction: The Pilot Super Sport ZP features an innovative tread design with wide grooves to channel water away, reducing the risk of hydroplaning.
- Comfortable Ride: Michelin’s advanced technology reduces road noise and vibrations, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable driving experience.
Performance Breakdown
Wet Performance (8.7)
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.7
- Wet Traction: 8.7
The Pilot Super Sport ZP offers excellent wet performance, providing reliable traction and hydroplaning resistance. It’s like wearing high-quality rain gear – you stay steady and safe even in downpours.
Dry Performance (9.6)
- Corner Stability: 9.6
- Dry Traction: 9.6
- Steering Response: 9.6
On dry roads, the Pilot Super Sport ZP performs exceptionally well. With high marks in corner stability, dry traction, and steering response, driving feels precise and controlled – much like handling a finely tuned sports car.
Winter/Snow Performance
- Light Snow Traction: N/A
- Deep Snow Traction: N/A
- Ice Traction: N/A
The Pilot Super Sport ZP is not designed for winter use. For snowy or icy conditions, a dedicated winter tire would be more appropriate.
Comfort (8.5)
- Ride Quality: 8.5
- Noise: 8.5
This tire provides a comfortable and quiet ride, reducing road noise and vibrations. It’s like having a conversation in a quiet room – smooth and pleasant, even on longer trips.
Treadwear (7.9)
While the Pilot Super Sport ZP offers good treadwear, it may not last as long as some other high-performance tires, but still provides good value for performance enthusiasts.
Pros
- Outstanding dry performance with great cornering and steering response
- Strong wet traction and hydroplaning resistance
- Comfortable and relatively quiet ride
- Run-flat technology for added safety
Cons
- Not suitable for winter or snowy conditions
- Shorter tread life compared to some competitors
Comparative Analysis
When choosing the right tire for your performance vehicle, the details matter. Both the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP and the Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP offer robust features for discerning drivers, but their strengths cater to slightly different driving preferences and priorities.
Let’s break it down to help you decide which tire might be the best fit for your ride.
Performance in Wet Conditions
| Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP | Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP | |
|---|---|---|
| Hydroplaning Resistance | 8.6 | 8.7 |
| Wet Traction | 8.6 | 8.7 |
The Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP slightly edges out the Pilot Sport 4S ZP in wet conditions with a score of 8.7 for both hydroplaning resistance and wet traction, compared to 8.6 for the Pilot Sport 4S ZP. This marginally higher score means the Super Sport ZP offers a bit more confidence in wet weather, making it a safer choice for those frequently driving in rainy conditions.
Dry Traction and Handling
| Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP | Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP | |
|---|---|---|
| Corner Stability | 9.7 | 9.6 |
| Dry Traction | 9.7 | 9.6 |
| Steering Response | 9.7 | 9.6 |
On dry roads, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP takes a slight lead with scores of 9.7 in corner stability, dry traction, and steering response, compared to 9.6 for the Super Sport ZP. This higher score means the Pilot Sport 4S ZP offers sharper handling and more precise steering, making it ideal for those who love an engaging and spirited drive.
Comfort and Noise
| Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP | Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP | |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Quality | 8.9 | 8.5 |
| Noise | 8.9 | 8.5 |
For comfort and noise, the Pilot Sport 4S ZP outperforms the Super Sport ZP with scores of 8.9 in both ride quality and noise, compared to 8.5 for the Super Sport ZP. This makes the Pilot Sport 4S ZP a better choice for drivers who value a quieter, more comfortable ride.
Treadwear and Durability
| Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP | Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP | |
|---|---|---|
| Treadwear | 8.1 | 7.9 |
The Pilot Sport 4S ZP also has a slight edge in treadwear with a score of 8.1 compared to the Super Sport ZP’s 7.9. This means the Pilot Sport 4S ZP may offer a longer lifespan, providing better value over time for those who drive extensively.
The Verdict
- Choose Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP if: You prioritize top-notch performance in both wet and dry conditions, and comfort and noise levels are crucial for your regular driving experience. This tire is ideal for drivers in rainy climates or those who love an engaging driving experience without sacrificing safety.
- Opt for Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP if: You’re looking for slightly better wet performance and can trade off a bit of comfort for potentially superior handling and traction in wet conditions. This tire suits drivers who often encounter wet roads and value safety in these conditions.
Other Competitors in the Market
While the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP and the Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP hold their ground as top contenders, the tire market is bustling with alternatives that might better align with specific needs or budgets. Let’s explore a few other players in the Max Performance Summer Run Flat category and see how they stack up.
Pirelli P Zero Run Flat (PZ4)
- Performance Ratings:
- Wet: 9.2
- Dry: 8.5
- Winter/Snow: N/A
- Comfort: 8.5
- Treadwear: 6.9
- Pros: Superior wet traction and excellent handling.
- Cons: Lower treadwear rating and higher price point.
- Ideal Usage: Perfect for performance enthusiasts who need top-tier wet handling and are less concerned with tire longevity.
Continental ContiSportContact 5 SSR
- Performance Ratings:
- Wet: 8.7
- Dry: 8.0
- Winter/Snow: N/A
- Comfort: 7.0
- Treadwear: 5.3
- Pros: Good wet performance and reasonable dry handling.
- Cons: Very low treadwear rating indicates a much shorter usable life.
- Ideal Usage: Suitable for budget-conscious drivers who need reliable performance in wet conditions and are prepared for more frequent tire replacements.
Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 RunOnFlat
- Performance Ratings:
- Wet: 8.7
- Dry: 7.6
- Winter/Snow: N/A
- Comfort: 6.9
- Treadwear: 5.9
- Pros: Good performance in wet conditions at a more affordable price point.
- Cons: Lower ratings in dry performance and treadwear, indicating a shorter lifespan.
- Ideal Usage: Best for drivers on a budget who primarily drive in wet conditions and can manage more frequent tire replacements.
Each of these alternatives offers a unique set of features that cater to different driving styles and priorities:
- For Balanced Value and Performance: The Bridgestone Potenza S001 RFT strikes a good balance, offering solid performance without the premium price tag. It’s ideal for those who drive in varying conditions but don’t want to splurge on the top-tier options.
- For Superior Wet Performance: The Pirelli P Zero Run Flat (PZ4) excels in providing top-tier wet handling, making it perfect for performance enthusiasts who frequently encounter rainy conditions and prioritize safety.
- For Budget-Friendly Options: The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 RunOnFlat presents a viable option for those who need to adhere to stricter budgets. While it doesn’t offer the best performance metrics, it maintains a respectable level of quality for its price range.
- For Budget-Conscious Drivers: The Continental ContiSportContact 5 SSR offers reasonable performance in both wet and dry conditions but requires more frequent replacements due to its lower treadwear rating.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4 ZP Product Page
- Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP Product Page
- Consumer Max Performance Summer Run Flat Tire Ratings – Tire Rack
Final Thoughts
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP impresses with its outstanding dry performance, providing sharp cornering, precise steering response, and excellent traction. It also delivers a quiet and comfortable ride, making it ideal for daily driving and long trips. However, it shows some limitations in wet conditions compared to the Super Sport ZP.
On the other hand, the Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP offers superior wet performance, making it a safer option for rainy climates. It also excels in dry handling but doesn’t quite match the comfort level of the 4S ZP. Its slightly lower treadwear rating means it might not last as long, but it still offers great value for performance enthusiasts.
Overall, both tires are on par with the leaders in their category. The Pilot Sport 4S ZP is a better choice for those prioritizing dry performance and comfort, while the Super Sport ZP is ideal for drivers who need enhanced wet performance. Your choice will ultimately depend on your specific driving conditions and preferences.
Good luck and happy motoring.
