I am at near 18k on my star specs, 9 full track days and a handfull of autocross's as well. Not even at the wear bars. If you run alot of camber and rotate them often while running them in the low 30's as far as pressure is concerned on the street they will do last along time.

 

http://www.michelinman.com/tire-sele...r-sport-tires/

 

235-45-17 by comparison (online browzing)

Michelin Pilot Super Sports are 22 lbs (max load 1609 -same as re-11's)
Dunlop Direzza Z1 Star Specs are 27 lbs (max load 1433 lbs.)
I ordered the Super Sports today
: )

I don't know if max load equates to stiffer sidewalls, but I hope so

 

I'd try the new Michelin's, I read a great article about a month back in my PCA magazine about their performance compared to other top brands.

 

I would say if money is no object try the Michelin's but I'd wait until Tire rack tests them personally. The Star Spec's have a proven track record...