Last Updated on November 29, 2024
Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus and Porsche 911 Dakar – Sports Car Performance On Snow
Winter driving is all about safety, moderate driving dynamics, and adapting to the conditions. The construction of winter tires, especially studded ones, does not reward ambitious driving. Can a tire meet these needs for drivers who demand year-round performance tires, especially in winter, and use a sports car for their daily commute, requiring precision handling and sharp steering even in the most challenging conditions? Can a tire offer the grip of a winter tire while performing well on both off-road and regular roads?
Pirelli thinks it is, and its new Scorpion All-Terrain Plus proves it. Porsche recognized this product’s unique capabilities and has been chosen as the OEM tire for the new and revolutionary Porsche 911 Dakar. So, let’s get to know this tire and this crazy sports car a bit better.
What Is A Porsche 911 Dakar?
The 911 Dakar is the latest addition to Porsche’s sports car lineup and a groundbreaking entry into off-road performance. Beneath its widened arches, elevated ride height, distinctive front bumper, and rugged tires lie the core of the 911 GTS mode. It is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo engine that delivers 473 hp and is paired with an 8-speed PDK automatic transmission. But that’s where the similarities end. The 911 Dakar boasts a fully re-engineered suspension, fortified undercarriage, and custom wheels, elevating it by 3.15 inches above the standard model.
While the 911 GTS is tailored for peak street performance, the 911 Dakar is designed to excel on loose surfaces, challenging terrains, and snowy conditions. It performs impressively in these conditions, thanks to its advanced long-travel suspension, powerful engine, and a notably lower center of gravity than most off-road SUVs.
Porsche’s decision to create a 911 designed for rugged environments taps into their off-road racing heritage, harkening back to their victories in the legendary Paris-Dakar Rally (1984 and 1986). Though primarily for sleek street sports cars, Porsche pushed the boundaries of innovation with the 911 Dakar, filling a niche many enthusiasts didn’t know they needed. A vehicle as innovative as the 911 Dakar requires a similarly advanced tire – enter the Pirelli Scorpion All-Terrain Plus, which balances off-road capability with on-road comfort.
Pirelli Scorpion All-Terrain Plus
Features:
- All-Terrain Performance: The Pirelli Scorpion All-Terrain Plus is designed for on-road comfort and off-road capability. It suits trucks, SUVs, and crossovers and delivers traction in various conditions, including mud, gravel, snow, and rocks.
- Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) Rating: This tire is certified for deep snow, ensuring excellent winter performance and being suitable for year-round use.
- Aggressive Tread Pattern: The tire features deep, rugged treads with large blocks that enhance off-road traction and durability while maintaining highway stability.
- Reinforced Sidewalls: The reinforced sidewall design improves durability and offers protection from impacts or punctures, making the tire more resilient for off-road driving.
- Stone Ejectors: Integrated stone ejectors prevent debris from lodging in the tire’s tread, preserving tire health and ensuring consistent performance over time.
- Comfort and Low Noise: Despite its aggressive design, the Scorpion All-Terrain Plus offers a relatively quiet ride on the highway, making it suitable for daily driving.
Specifications:
- Tire Type: All-Terrain, All-Season
- Load Range: C (Some sizes available in Load Range E)
- Speed Rating: R, S, and T, depending on size
- Available Sizes: 16 to 20-inch rim diameters
- Tread Depth: Approximately 13/32 to 14/32 inches
- Max Load Capacity: Ranges from 2,469 – 3,195 lbs (depending on size)
- Max Inflation Pressure: Up to 80 psi
- Mileage Warranty: 50,000 miles
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Pros |
Cons |
| Versatility: The excellent balance of off-road toughness and on-road comfort makes it a great choice for drivers who use their vehicle on highways and off the beaten path. | Fuel Efficiency: Due to its aggressive tread pattern and heavy-duty construction, the tire can slightly reduce fuel efficiency compared to regular highway tires. |
| Severe Snow Certification: The 3PMSF rating ensures the tire’s capability in winter conditions, enhancing traction in snow and ice. | Wet Traction: While adequate, wet performance may not be as strong as other premium all-terrain tires, especially during heavy rain. |
| Durability: The reinforced sidewalls and aggressive tread design make the tire durable against rough terrains and impacts. | Cost: The Pirelli Scorpion All-Terrain Plus tends to be pricier than other all-terrain tires, although the performance justifies the price for most buyers. |
| Stone Ejectors: Helps to maintain tread health by removing stones that can cause damage or inconsistent wear. | |
| Quiet Ride: Compared to many all-terrain tires, it provides a quieter on-road driving experience. |
Prices:
Tire Price Range: $147 – $461 per tire (depending on size)
Conclusion
While the Pirelli Scorpion All-Terrain Plus is the OEM tire for the Porsche 911 Dakar, it is still versatile enough for a wide range of SUVs and trucks. It is excellent on SUV models, and its blend of durability, quiet performance, and winter readiness makes it an excellent choice for daily drivers who encounter tough conditions.
