Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS vs Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2: In the world of high-performance tires, few names inspire as much excitement as the Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS and the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2. We previously witnessed the impressive capabilities of the RS as it faced off against Michelin’s formidable Cup 2 R, delivering a thrilling performance that left enthusiasts eager for more. Now, the stage is set for another epic duel. How will the Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS stack up against the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2? Get ready for an electrifying comparison as these two titans of the track go head-to-head once again!
Table of Contents
Results: Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS vs Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2
Results below were taken from AutoBild’s 2024 The Best Track Day Tires Test with a total of 6 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS vs Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 based on the relevant performance category. Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS 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
For track day enthusiasts, dry performance is an absolute requirement. When it comes to dry braking, the Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS outshines the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2, stopping at 27.2 meters compared to the Cup 2’s 30.9 meters.
In dry handling, the Trofeo RS completes a lap in 138.92 seconds, faster than the Cup 2’s 141.39 seconds. Over a longer run, the Pirelli maintains its lead with an average lap time of 142.45 seconds over six laps, while the Michelin trails with an average of 146.6 seconds. The Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS clearly excels in delivering superior dry performance on the track.
Pilot Sport Cup 2:
- -12% in dry braking
- -2% in dry handling (lap time)
- -3% in dry handling long run (lap time)
Wet
While wet performance is usually secondary for track day enthusiasts, it remains important for off-track usage. In wet braking, the Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS outperforms the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2, stopping in 29.4 meters compared to the Cup 2’s 30.7 meters.
For wet handling, the Pirelli slightly edges out the Michelin with an average speed of 81.9 km/h, just ahead of the Cup 2’s 81.8 km/h. Overall, the Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS demonstrates marginally better wet performance, making it a more versatile option for varying driving conditions.
Pilot Sport Cup 2:
- -4% in wet braking
- ~0% in wet handling (average speed)
Price
When comparing prices for the 335/30R21 size, the Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS costs €610, while the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 is priced at €500. This makes the Pilot Sport Cup 2 approximately 22% cheaper than the Trofeo RS, offering a more budget-friendly option for high-performance enthusiasts.
Tire size: 335/30R21
- P Zero Trofeo RS: € 610
- Pilot Sport Cup 2: € 500
Difference: -22% more cheaper for Pilot Sport Cup 2.
Summary
As a tire expert, I can confidently conclude that the Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS is the winner in this duel. Its superior dry performance, demonstrated by shorter braking distances and faster lap times, makes it the ideal choice for track day enthusiasts. While both tires perform admirably in wet conditions, the Trofeo RS still holds a slight edge. Although the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 offers a more budget-friendly price, the Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS justifies its higher cost with unmatched performance on the track. For those seeking the ultimate driving experience, the Trofeo RS stands out as the clear victor.
Dr Edwin Pang