High-performance driving demands a tire that blends grip, control, and durability without compromise. Michelin has long stood at the top of the performance tire market, and two of its most acclaimed options the Pilot Super Sport and the Pilot Sport 4S often spark debate among enthusiasts.
Both tires cater to drivers who value precision and speed, yet they bring distinct strengths to the table. The Pilot Super Sport set the benchmark for years with its razor-sharp handling and long tread life, making it a favorite for sports car owners and track enthusiasts.
Its successor, the Pilot Sport 4S, took the formula further by adding cutting-edge technology, improved wet traction, and a refined balance between road comfort and aggressive performance.
Exploring the differences between these two Michelin legends reveals which tire truly aligns with your driving goals and delivers the thrill you expect on every mile.
Michelin Pilot Super Sport vs Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
Michelin has long been one of the top names in performance tires. Two of its most famous models, the Pilot Super Sport and the Pilot Sport 4S, often get compared by enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. Both were designed with racing technology but aim at different kinds of driving balance.
The Pilot Super Sport is known as a legendary tire from the early 2010s, while the Pilot Sport 4S is the newer design, built to improve on its predecessor. To understand the difference, let’s break down both tires in detail.
Michelin Pilot Super Sport
Product Details
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Brand: Michelin
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Size: 225/40R18 88Y
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Section Width: 225 mm
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Load Capacity: 1235 lbs
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Tread Depth: 9/32″
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Tread Type: Asymmetrical
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Max Pressure: 51 psi
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Rim Width: 8 inches
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Tire Diameter: 25.1 inches
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Rim Size: 18 inches
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Aspect Ratio: 40
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Load Index: 88
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Speed Rating: Y
Features
The Pilot Super Sport was born from endurance racing programs, especially the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This means it was built to stay stable and predictable even under high stress.
The tread uses a dual-compound design: the outside is stiffer for dry grip, while the inside compound improves control in wet conditions.
Its asymmetric tread pattern allows sharper cornering and more even wear. The tire is designed not only for supercars but also for sports sedans and coupes, giving them a mix of track performance and road durability.
What is the Good?
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Dry performance: Strong cornering grip and steering feedback make it fun for spirited driving.
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High-speed stability: Holds its line well, even on highways at top speeds.
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Durability: Offers longer tread life compared to many ultra-performance tires of its time.
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Balanced use: Works for both street driving and occasional track use.
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Proven record: Trusted by many sports car owners worldwide.
What is the Bad?
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Wet grip limitations: While decent, it is not as advanced in rain as newer designs.
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Noise levels: Road noise becomes noticeable as tread wears down.
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Availability: Slowly being replaced, so fewer sizes are offered.
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Age of design: Launched over a decade ago, so technology feels older.
Overall Opinion
The Pilot Super Sport is still a solid option for those who want a reliable and durable performance tire.
It does not match the newest models in wet braking or ride comfort, but it gives a classic, connected driving feel.
Many car enthusiasts still praise its mix of performance and long life, which is rare in this tire category.
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
Product Details
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Brand: Michelin
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Size: 265/35ZR18 97(Y) XL
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Section Width: 265 mm
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Load Capacity: 1609 lbs
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Tread Depth: 9.5/32″
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Tread Type: Asymmetrical
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Max Pressure: 50 psi
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Rim Width: 10.5 inches
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Tire Diameter: 25.3 inches
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Rim Size: 18 inches
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Aspect Ratio: 35
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Load Index: 97
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Speed Rating: Y
Features
The Pilot Sport 4S replaced the Super Sport with modern updates. Michelin used new silica-rich compounds for better traction in wet and dry conditions. It also has a hybrid belt of aramid and nylon that keeps the shape stable during high-speed driving.
The tread design has wider grooves, which push water away quickly, making it safer in rain. The contact patch adapts to driving conditions spreading grip more evenly during braking and cornering.
Tested on exotic cars like Ferrari, Porsche, and BMW M models, the 4S is tuned for drivers who demand both performance and confidence.
What is the Good?
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Wet performance: Best-in-class wet braking, with shorter stopping distances than most rivals.
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Dry grip: Matches or exceeds the Super Sport in cornering and acceleration.
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Comfort: Softer ride and lower noise compared to older performance tires.
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Versatility: Works well as a daily tire and still shines on track days.
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Technology: Uses Michelin’s latest compounds and construction for balanced performance.
What is the Bad?
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Tread life: Wears faster than the Super Sport, especially under aggressive driving.
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Price: More expensive than many high-performance competitors.
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Stiffness: Some drivers may find the ride firmer than regular touring tires.
Overall Opinion
The Pilot Sport 4S is widely considered one of the best max-performance summer tires available today.
It gives drivers confidence in both dry and wet conditions, something the older Super Sport could not match.
It sacrifices a bit of tread life for this performance, but for many, the trade-off is worth it.
Detailed Comparison for Michelin Pilot Super Sport vs Pilot Sport 4S
Both tires carry Michelin’s racing DNA, but they cater to slightly different priorities. The Pilot Super Sport focuses on durability and balanced performance, making it ideal for drivers who value long tread life and dry grip.
The Pilot Sport 4S takes everything further with better braking, wet traction, and comfort. On dry roads, both are excellent, but the 4S offers sharper steering response and more grip in extreme conditions.
On wet roads, the difference is clear the 4S stops quicker and resists hydroplaning better. In terms of comfort, the 4S also wins, with reduced noise and smoother ride quality.
For tread life, the Super Sport usually lasts longer. This makes it attractive to drivers who don’t want to replace tires often. But since Michelin has started phasing out the Super Sport, finding new sets may be harder in the future.
In short:
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Choose the Super Sport if you want durability, proven performance, and better value.
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Choose the Sport 4S if you want the latest technology, stronger wet performance, and maximum grip.
FAQs
Which tire is better for daily driving?
The Pilot Sport 4S, because it balances comfort, grip, and wet safety.
Which lasts longer, the Super Sport or the Sport 4S?
The Super Sport often lasts longer in terms of tread life.
Are both tires good for track use?
Yes, both perform well on the track, but the Sport 4S has more modern handling and better wet stability.
Is the price difference worth it?
For drivers who push their cars in all conditions, the 4S justifies its cost. If budget and tread life matter more, the Super Sport makes sense.
Will Michelin keep making the Super Sport?
Production has slowed as the Sport 4S has replaced it in most sizes, so availability may become limited.
Conclusion
The Michelin Pilot Super Sport and Pilot Sport 4S both stand as icons of performance tires. The Super Sport gives long life, proven dry grip, and track-capable balance, making it a strong choice for drivers who want endurance.
The Pilot Sport 4S brings modern compounds, sharper braking, and unmatched wet performance, setting a new standard for max-performance summer tires.
Drivers must decide what matters more: longevity and value, or cutting-edge grip and safety. Either way, Michelin delivers excellence on both fronts.