Comparison: Pirelli P ZERO PZ4 vs. Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2

In this article, we will be comparing two popular summer tyres, the Pirelli P ZERO PZ4 and the Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2.

Firstly, the Pirelli P ZERO PZ4 and the Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2 are both ultra-high-performance (UUHP) summer tyres. The Pirelli model has been rated at 85% by our team, while the Dunlop rates slightly lower at 72%. Neither of these models have been replaced by newer tyres.

Looking at test results, in the Autobild test with a total of 50 tyres, the Pirelli P ZERO PZ4 secured an impressive 3rd position, while the Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2 came in 13th. The Pirelli tyre stood out particularly for its dry handling, wet braking, and wet cornering. The Dunlop tyre, on the other hand, excelled in areas of aquaplaning.

In the Gute-Fahrt test, the Pirelli tyre again outperformed the Dunlop, coming 2nd out of 7 tyres tested while the Dunlop secured 5th. In the Autozeitung test, with 10 tyres participating, the Pirelli ranked 3rd, and the Dunlop came in 8th.

Pirelli’s P ZERO PZ4 was recognised for features such as wet handling and wet circle cornering, while Dunlop’s SP Sport MAXX RT2 showed its strength in areas such as aquaplaning and rolling resistance.

To summarise, the Pirelli P ZERO PZ4 stands out with excellent dynamic driving qualities, with short wet and dry braking distances. However, its restricted mileage performance and higher price were seen as a downside. The Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2 performed well on wet roads and had good aquaplaning qualities and short dry braking distances, but the delayed steering response on dry roads was noted as a disadvantage.

In conclusion, based on the variety of tests performed, the Pirelli P ZERO PZ4 appears to deliver superior overall performance compared to the Dunlop SP Sport MAXX RT2. However, specific preferences in areas like aquaplaning or pricing might lead some users to favour the Dunlop model.