Michelin Pilot Sport 4 or Exalto PE2?

[DrRobin]

Originally Posted by husker boxster

What do you have on the front?

You don't want to mix tire brands front & rear. Either match what you have on front or buy 4 tires.

I have Continentals on the front, fitted last year, but they don't do a tyre for the rear in the same series, so I would be stuck trying to find some Contis which do fit and are similar.

I know people always say fit the same tyre to all four wheels, but what difference does it actually make, providing you fit the same tyre to the same axle?

[986 Boxster]

What model and size of continentals are you looking for? I`m sure they make DW 255 in 17`s and 18`s, I have both.

[PaulE]

Originally Posted by DrRobin

I have Continentals on the front, fitted last year, but they don't do a tyre for the rear in the same series, so I would be stuck trying to find some Contis which do fit and are similar.

I know people always say fit the same tyre to all four wheels, but what difference does it actually make, providing you fit the same tyre to the same axle?

The different brands of tires (tyres) have different levels of grip and different slip angles. This will be a problem when you least need a problem, in an emergency maneuver when you have to steer or brake very hard or when you run through standing water at highway speeds.

[husker boxster]

Originally Posted by PaulE

The different brands of tires (tyres) have different levels of grip and different slip angles. This will be a problem when you least need a problem, in an emergency maneuver when you have to steer or brake very hard or when you run through standing water at highway speeds.

+1

Different brands have different levels of grip b/c companies use different rubber compounds. A tire may even have different compounds across the tread - the outside may have a harder compound vs a softer compound in the center or inside of the tire. They do this on track centric tires so you don't rip the outside of the tire off. Each brand uses its own compound based on what it believes is the key emphasis for that tire - traction, longevity, ride, etc.

As Paul stated, mixing brands may not be an issue in dry conditions but you'll notice it in wet or temp extreme (hot or cold) conditions. Based on where you live, extreme conditions are in play. You'll end up with a wicked handling car if you mix brands.

[DrRobin]

My rear wheel size is 225/50 R16, Conti do make a tyre in this size, but I can’t find anyone round here who will supply and fit, so have gone for the Sport 4s.

I don’t drive my Boxster to it’s limit or even to the point where it is about to loose grip and I doubt very much that I will experience any issues with different manufacturers, but if I do I will get Sport 4s on the front.

Thanks for your help.