Several of you have speculated the differences between the new N-spec MPSC, primarily as introduced on the new GT3, and the "standard" one available in all sizes. I thought it may be some time to do a little digging.

In checking with our Michelin engineering contacts, they confirmed what we already knew, that OE tires are developed in conjunction with the vehicle manufacturer, and their exact design specifics are considered proprietary and confidential. Therefore, Michelin was unable to provide any details on the functional differences between the conventional Pilot Sport Cup and the N0 Porsche-OE derivative fitted to the new GT3.

Attached is a photo that illustrate some of the outward differences. I used the front 235/35R19 (97Y) which has both versions available.
MSPN 88851 235/35R19 (97Y) Conventional Pilot Sport Cup
MSPN 08291 235/35R19 (97Y) N0 Porsche-OE Pilot Sport Cup

Observations:
*The Porsche OE version has a narrow circumferential groove in the wide outside shoulder, where the conventional tire is solid (both have alternating oval openings).
*The circumferential grooves on the Porsche-OE version are much wider and the intermediate ribs much narrower than the conventional version.
*Not readily visible in these photos is the change to the inside shoulder. Where the notches are molded at partial depth on the conventional PSC, the Porsche-OE version has partial on the inside half, and is full-depth on the outside half of the tread block.
*Both versions are molded at 6/32" tread depth.
*All of these tread pattern changes indicate a move towards improved hydroplaning resistance with the Porsche-OE version versus the conventional tread pattern.
*The Porsche-OE version does not have a rim protector, while the conventional version does.
*The Porsche-OE version has one layer of Rayon for the body ply material, while the conventional tire has two layers.
*The Porsche-OE version is manufactured using Michelin's highly automated C3M manufacturing process, while the conventional version appears to be manufactured with standard hand-operated machinery. http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tirete....jsp?techid=19


As you can tell in the picture, the two tires look quite a bit different. The Porsche tire is on the right:



If you have any other questions feel free to contact me. Thanks.

 

Wow interesting, thanks for the info

 

Nice write up Damon!

There's a big difference in the size of those grooves. I'm glad to see that the Porsche-spec ones should do better in the wet.

Wonder if the Porsche-spec one are of a softer compound? The "original" MPSC are notorious for their need to be warmed up for any kind of useable grip.

 

I know they make rears in 305mm but do you think they'll have them in 295mm? If not, do you think the 305s will fit properly on a 19x11 wheel (stock Carrera S)?

Thanks for the comparo!

 

Thanks, that was an interesting read.

 

Damon - the secrecy is interesting in that Bridgestone or any other competitor can order up both versions from your fine establishment and know exactly what the technical and functional differences are in a day or 2. In the meantime, Michelin deprives its customers of information helpful in making an informed choice.

 

Good to know. Thanks for the info.

 

Thanks for the info--I'm just about to order a set of tires...

 

Damon,

Can you post the picture of the differences once more. Can't see it.

 

Do those come in 255/40/18 and 295/35/18?

Joe

 

No picture either

 

The closest would be 265/35 and 295/30.

 

So what's the stickiest non-wet tire we can do for a 550 Maranello?