Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 vs Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R: In the realm of high-performance track day tires, the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 and its formidable successor, the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R, stand as the pinnacle of premium selections for racing enthusiasts. Launched in 2013, the Pilot Sport Cup 2 quickly set a high standard for grip and longevity on both track and street. Not to be outdone, the Pilot Sport Cup 2 R, introduced in 2018, took these attributes to new heights, offering enhanced performance specifically tuned for the track.
Both models remain highly sought after in the market today. As we delve into the differences between these two titans of tarmac, we ignite the excitement of a battle that pits innovation against its own legacy. Which tire will come out on top? The stage is set for a showdown that every track day user will want to watch closely.
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Results: Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 vs Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R
Results below were taken from AutoBild’s 2024 The BestTrack Day Tires Test with a total of 6 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 vs Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R based on the relevant performance category. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Note that for both wet handling evaluation, the average lap speed was used instead of the standard lap time. The tire size of interest is 335/30R21 which is a common tire size for Porsche 911 GT3 RS. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a Porsche 911 GT3 RS which is one of the fastest track car you can get.
Dry
When comparing the dry performance of the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 and the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R, notable differences emerge, showcasing the refined capabilities of each tire. In dry braking tests, the Pilot Sport Cup 2 R demonstrates superior stopping power, halting from 100 km/h to 0 in just 27.2 meters, which is a significant 3.7 meters shorter than the 30.9 meters required by the Pilot Sport Cup 2. This improvement underscores the enhanced technology and materials used in the newer model.
In terms of dry handling, the Pilot Sport Cup 2 R also edges out its predecessor. It completes a dry handling lap in 139.33 seconds, outperforming the Pilot Sport Cup 2, which takes 141.39 seconds. This advantage of about 2 seconds suggests a more agile and responsive tire that can navigate corners and maintain stability at high speeds more effectively.
Moreover, during longer runs, such as a six-lap average test, both tires exhibit remarkable consistency, but the Pilot Sport Cup 2 R continues to lead slightly. It averages a lap time of 146.32 seconds, just marginally faster than the 146.6 seconds recorded for the Pilot Sport Cup 2. This slight edge in a prolonged performance test further illustrates the small yet critical refinements in the Pilot Sport Cup 2 R’s design that cater to the demanding needs of track enthusiasts.
Pilot Sport Cup 2 R:
- +14% in dry braking
- +1% in dry handling (lap time)
- ~0% in dry handling long run (lap time)
Wet
In wet conditions, the differences in performance between the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 and the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R are evident, though both tires perform admirably. In wet braking tests, the Pilot Sport Cup 2 R stops from 80 km/h to 0 in 29.8 meters, which is slightly better than the 30.7 meters needed by the Pilot Sport Cup 2. This difference of 0.9 meters highlights the R version’s improved grip and braking efficiency under wet conditions.
Surprisingly, in wet handling, the original Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 outperforms the newer R version even though wet braking results favors the newer Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R . It maintains an average speed of 81.8 km/h on a wet handling course, while the Pilot Sport Cup 2 R manages only 78.9 km/h. This indicates that the Pilot Sport Cup 2 provides better stability and control in wet conditions, enabling higher cornering speeds despite being the older model. Such performance is particularly advantageous for drivers who value confident handling in rainy conditions. This unexpected advantage in wet braking for the original model underscores a nuanced aspect of tire performance where the Pilot Sport Cup 2 excels.
Pilot Sport Cup 2 R:
- +3% in wet braking
- -4% in wet handling (average speed)
Price
The Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R is significantly more expensive than its predecessor, the Pilot Sport Cup 2, especially when considering the same tire size of 335/30R21. The Pilot Sport Cup 2 is priced at €500, while the Pilot Sport Cup 2 R commands a price of €800. This marks a substantial 38% increase in cost for the Pilot Sport Cup 2 R. This huge difference in pricing reflects the advanced technology and enhanced performance features that the R version offers, targeting those who seek the ultimate in track-day tire performance.
Tire size: 335/30R21
- Pilot Sport Cup 2: € 500
- Pilot Sport Cup 2 R: € 800
Difference: +38% more expensive for Pilot Sport Cup 2 R.
Summary
As a tire expert analyzing the performance differences between the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 and the Pilot Sport Cup 2 R, I find that each tire has its distinct advantages and drawbacks, making them suitable for different types of drivers and conditions. The Pilot Sport Cup 2 R, with its enhanced dry performance, notably in braking where it stops significantly shorter than the original, is ideal for track enthusiasts who prioritize speed and precision in dry conditions. Its price, however, is considerably higher, which might deter some buyers.
On the other hand, the original Pilot Sport Cup 2, despite being older, surprisingly excels in wet handling. It offers greater stability and control, allowing for higher speeds through wet corners. This makes it a preferable option for those who often drive in varied weather conditions and value a more balanced performance without the steep price increase.
In conclusion, choosing between these tires depends on what you value most: the cutting-edge performance for dry & wet of the Pilot Sport Cup 2 R or the more versatile and cost-effective wet handling capabilities of the original Pilot Sport Cup 2. Each has its place in the arsenal of a driving enthusiast, tailored to different preferences and conditions.
Dr Edwin Pang