Pirelli is a well-known tire brand name that delivers true performance, above and beyond tires that come stock with your car. The Pirelli Scorpion line is well known for their all season ATR and STR tire models.
Many people are wondering what the difference is in performance between the ATR and the STR. We are going to answer that question here. But first, let us define what ATR and STR actually mean in the tire department.
Pirelli Scorpion ATR vs STR
Difference between ATR and STR
An ATR tire is made for all terrain purposes. This means going over rocky or muddy paths, snowy banks, but can also be used very efficiently on paved streets.
In contrast, the STR tire is a street performance model. This means that it is not meant for roughing it in the outdoors. It is simply meant to provide more traction on slippery roads.
With this in mind, there are various pros and cons to both types of tires. Before we get into the differences between the Scorpion ATR and the Scorpion STR, we will go over some of their main features.
Pirelli Scorpion Features
The Pirelli Scorpion tire models are known for having the following:
- Traction that can be used year-round
- Precise handling on wet or slippery roads
- Great tread life
- Indicators will let you know how your tires are performing in dry or wet environments. They will also inform you as to whether you need to check the vehicle’s alignment.
- For snow performance, there are increased pattern edges throughout the grooves, which improves braking and acceleration.
- Both the STR and the ATR have a Limited mileage warranty. There’ll be more on that later in this review.
Pirelli Scorpion ATR vs STR: The Differences
As mentioned above, one is an all terrain tire, and the other is a street performance tire. Some people use these tires interchangeably; some will use the Scorpion ATR mainly for paved roads, while others will use the STR in outdoor conditions. In any case, the differences in their features and benefits need to be examined more closely in order to make a decision as to which to purchase.
Below is a list of features in which these models have differences:
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Road grip:
Technically speaking, the purpose of the Scorpion STR is to provide more traction on paved roads than regular, cheaper models. However, as you might have guessed, the Scorpion ATR also do a good job at providing traction. In fact, customers of the ATR and the STR have said that the ATR provides the best traction on slippery roads. This makes sense due to the soft rubber compound of the tire. If you’re looking for the tire that is very quiet on the road and has loads of traction, perhaps the ATR is the better choice. Granted, it is significantly heavier than the STR model. -
Weight:
The weight of the ATR tire is significantly higher than the weight of the STR tire. This can cause your car to have less power and have worse mileage. This is a matter that you must consider when purchasing the ATR tire. -
Rubber compound and longevity:
Due to the fact that the ATR tire has more grip than the STR, it may also have a softer rubber compound. Tires that have softer rubber compounds tend to wear more rapidly. However, we have heard from customers that the newer ATR models are not quite as ‘spongy’. Some have even said that they have very good longevity. -
Limited mileage warranty:
Both of these tire models have a slightly different mileage warranty. The Scorpion ATR has a 50,000 mile warranty, while the Scorpion STR has a 65,000 mile warranty. -
Aesthetics:
The Scorpion ATR’s definitely look bulkier than the STR’s. If you’re going for a more racy look, the ATR’s are your best bet.
Pirelli Scorpion ATR vs STR: Price comparison
When purchasing from Amazon, there does not seem to be much of a difference in pricing between the Scorpion ATR and the Scorpion STR. You will notice that the prices of these tires are higher than regular tires. This is due to deeper tread, which means more rubber is being used. Of course, that is only one of the potential reasons for what we are saying is that high quality tires come at a higher price.
If you would like to see current prices on Amazon for the Scorpion’s, please see below.
The Verdict
Both the Pirelli Scorpion tires are comparable in quality. They are both made for different purposes and have different constitutions. The Scorpion ATR has the best grip on a paved road, and is better suited for rough terrain. However, it is significantly bulkier than the Scorpion STR and will affect your car’s mileage.
Which of the two customers choose depends on several factors, as mentioned above.
Good job Nadia!!! In fact I rather ATR works and looks better