A technological collaboration between Pirelli and Porsche has seen the joint development of specifically created tyres for classic models, from the first generation 1964 model up to the Porsche 911 (type 997).
This wide tyre offering makes Pirelli the go-to supplier for Porsche collectors, thanks in part to the Collezione tyre range for numerous other classic Porsche models, such as the 356, 914, 928 and 944.
Designed specifically for the cars they equip, these tyres help preserve the original aesthetics of the vehicle but utilise modern materials and technologies, giving the owner maximum safety and compliance with currently applicable regulations.
Ulrike Lutz, Director for Classic at Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, commented:
“Our collaboration with Porsche about tyres for classic Porsche models demonstrates how tradition and innovation can successfully coexist. Our Research and Development departments work together in a consolidated manner to create dedicated tyres that allow classic Porsche models to continue travelling safely and efficiently. It’s a relationship that is constantly renewed”, said Mario Isola, Pirelli Motorsport Director.
“Preserving the heritage of our old- and young timers by ensuring the availability of premium spare parts is a matter of dedication for us. Together with Pirelli’s renowned expertise, we’ve been able to further enhance our offering of high-performance tires for our classic cars.”
The Pirelli Collezione is a classic tyre on the outside but modern on the inside, thanks to the joint development between the Pirelli and Porsche Research and Development departments. The aim of this tyre range is to preserve the historic automotive heritage, combining technical innovation with aesthetic fidelity. This has been possible thanks to the contribution of the Pirelli Foundation, which preserves, among other documents, the designs and specificities of historic tyres in an archive of approximately 4 linear kilometres of materials on Pirelli’s history, from 1872 to the present day.
You will also notice the “N” symbol on the sidewall of these tyres to show that they have been specifically approved and tested by Porsche.
Looking back at the history of the Porsche 911, the story began back in 1963 at the International Motor Show Germany in Frankfurt, where it was introduced as the “Porsche 901”, which was the successor to the Porsche 356. A few years later, the production models were equipped with the Cinturato CN36, which was the first Pirelli sports car tyre to use steel belts.
Ten years later, the Porsche 911 evolved into the G model, which in turn gave rise to the 911 Turbo, equipped with the Cinturato P7, a tyre originally developed for rally races. It was the first ultra-low-profile tyre to be introduced with its lower sidewall relative to the tread width and previously unseen aspect ratio. This significantly increased grip when cornering.
Subsequent generations of the 911 were fitted with the P Zero Rosso, giving the perfect balance between high performance, comfort and low road noise. This ensured safe sporty driving even at high speeds.
Then in 2005, the sixth generation arrived in the form of the Porsche 911 (type 997), for which the P Zero is also available, with further joint development projects currently underway to develop new tyres for classic Porsche models.
Author Bio:
Simon Burrell is a UK-based motoring and travel journalist and editor, a member of the Guild of Motoring Writers and former saloon car racing driver.
Photographs courtesy of Pirelli
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