Firestone Destination MT Vs. M/T2 Tires: In-depth Differences

Welcome to the face-off between two top-of-the-line all-terrain tires: the Firestone Destination MT and the M/T2. Both models are reputable in the world of off-roading enthusiasts and for good reason.

Yet, to truly understand which model will better suit your needs, we must delve deeper into the nuances that differentiate these two beasts.

A Brief Comparison Table

Feature	Firestone Destination MT	Firestone Destination M/T2
Tread Design	Symmetric with alternating shoulder lugs and deep center lugs	Aggressive with high void-to-lug ratio, stepped inside notches, and 23-degree attack angles
Durability	Three-ply sidewall, resistant to punctures and cuts	Three-ply sidewall, stone ejectors, and enhanced hydroplaning resistance
Snow Traction	Good snow performance	Carries the 3PMSF symbol indicating better snow traction
Road Noise	Lower compared to MT2	Higher compared to MT
Price	Generally lower	Generally higher

Firestone Destination MT: An Oldie But Goodie

Firstly, let’s shine some light on the original Firestone Destination MT.

This model has long been celebrated by off-road aficionados for its robust construction, uncompromising traction, and impressive durability.

Pros:

1. Outstanding Traction: The Destination MT, with its aggressive tread design and deep lugs, delivers excellent traction on mud, rock, gravel, and even in the snow. It’s your surefire companion for off-roading adventures.
2. Impressive Durability: Designed with a three-ply sidewall and high resistance against punctures and cuts, this tire offers high durability, promising years of service.
3. Smooth Ride: Despite its rugged exterior, the MT provides a smooth and relatively quiet ride on highways and city roads. The blend of comfort with ruggedness is a significant plus.

Cons:

1. Limited Sizes: The Destination MT is available in fewer sizes compared to its younger sibling, which could be a drawback for drivers with certain vehicle types.
2. Older Technology: Being an older model, the Destination MT doesn’t boast some of the latest technology that the MT2 does, which may impact performance in certain conditions.

Also Read: Problems With TreadWright Tires.

Firestone Destination M/T2: The Upgraded Off-Road Beast

The Firestone Destination M/T2 is the newer model and it came into the market guns blazing, ready to take its place as the tire of choice for off-roaders. This updated version showcases a series of improvements over the original MT.

Pros:

1. Enhanced Traction: The MT2 has been engineered with advanced technology, featuring 23-degree attack angles, for even better traction on all surfaces – be it mud, rock, sand, or snow.
2. Superior Durability: While retaining the three-ply construction, the MT2 also boasts stone and mud rejectors, helping to keep the tread clear and enhancing the tire’s lifespan.
3. Greater Size Range: The MT2 is available in a more comprehensive size range, catering to a wider variety of vehicles.

Cons:

1. Higher Price: The MT2 is generally more expensive than the MT. This could be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers.
2. Increased Road Noise: While the MT2 offers excellent off-road performance, it does come with a bit more road noise than its predecessor when on paved surfaces.

Key Differences between Firestone Destination MT and M/T2 Tires

While both the Firestone Destination MT and M/T2 tires are engineered for off-roading and share a lot in common, their subtle yet significant differences can affect their overall performance and your experience behind the wheel.

Let’s drill down on these distinctions.

• Tread Design

The first key difference lies in the tread design.

The original MT sports a symmetric tread design, featuring alternating shoulder lugs and deep center lugs, which significantly contributes to its traction capabilities.

On the other hand, the MT2 has an even more aggressive tread design with high void-to-lug ratio and stepped inside notches, significantly enhancing its mud and snow traction.

It also employs 23-degree attack angles (a common attribute in agricultural tires) to offer more pulling power.

• Durability and Tread Life

Both tires boast three-ply sidewalls for exceptional durability. However, the M/T2 steps up the game with stone ejectors that help prevent stone drilling and increase the tire’s lifespan.

It also includes tread lugs that enhance self-cleaning ability and resistance to hydroplaning.

• Snow Traction

Though both models perform well in snowy conditions, the M/T2’s advanced design allows it to carry the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol. This symbol means it meets required performance criteria in snow testing to be considered severe snow service-rated.

• Road Noise

While both tires inevitably create more road noise than all-season tires, given their aggressive tread designs, users have reported that the MT2 is a bit noisier on the pavement than the original MT.

This could be due to its more aggressive tread blocks that create more vibrations.

• Pricing

The MT2, with its improved traction, durability, and snow rating, comes at a higher price than the MT. Although the exact cost can vary depending on the size and retailer, you should expect to pay a premium for the M/T2’s enhanced capabilities.

Also Read: Is Maxxis Dissector Better Than DHR2 Tire?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Final Thoughts

The face-off between the Firestone Destination MT and M/T2 tires isn’t necessarily about which is better overall. It’s about which tire better suits your needs. Both models boast excellent performance in off-road conditions but with subtle differences.

While the MT provides a quieter ride, the M/T2 excels in harsh conditions. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for making an informed decision that you won’t regret.

So, buckle up, and enjoy the ride, knowing that either way, Firestone has got you covered!