Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Continental PremiumContact 7
Michelin and Continental are among the world's leading tire manufacturers and stand for innovative technologies in the premium segment. The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 was launched in 2020 as the successor to the successful Pilot Sport 4, while Continental launched the PremiumContact 7 in 2021 as the latest generation of the PremiumContact series. Choosing the right summer tire is crucial for driving safety, comfort and economy, as these factors significantly influence the driving experience. This comparative article analyzes both tire models in detail to provide drivers with an informed basis for their decision.
235/45 R18 98Y XL
In stock
235/45 R18 98Y XL
In stock
Michelin Pilot Sport 5 advantages
- Outstanding dry grip thanks to optimized rubber compound with functionalized elastomers
- Precise steering response and sporty handling with dynamic driving style
- High mileage thanks to resistant tread and even wear
- Reduced rolling resistance for improved fuel efficiency
- Excellent braking performance on dry roads with short braking distances
- Excellent wet grip thanks to innovative tread design with optimized grooves
- Low rolling noise for increased driving comfort
- Strong aquaplaning resistance due to effective water drainage
- Good lateral guidance in bends thanks to stiffened sidewall
- Even wear over the entire service life
Michelin Pilot Sport 5 disadvantages
- Higher purchase price in the premium segment
- Limited availability in smaller tire dimensions
- Harder suspension at low temperatures
- Less sporty characteristics for dynamic driving
- Higher rolling resistance compared to specialized eco tires
- Lower mileage with very sporty driving style
Michelin PILOT Sport 5 tyres
All sizes
Continental Premiumcontact 7 tyres
All sizes
| Feature |
Michelin Pilot Sport 5 |
Continental PremiumContact 7 |
| Tire type |
summer tire |
summer tire |
| Width (mm) |
195-325 |
185-275 |
| Height (%) |
25-65 |
35-70 |
| Type of construction |
Radial |
Radial |
| inch |
16-22 |
15-21 |
| Load index |
82-112 |
82-107 |
| Speed index |
V, W, Y, ZR |
T, H, V, W, Y |
| Rim protection |
Partially available |
Available |
| Run-flat tires |
Not available |
Not available |
| Reinforced / XL |
Available |
Available |
| C tires |
Not available |
Not available |
| Fuel efficiency (EU label) |
A-C |
A-C |
| Wet grip (EU label) |
A-B |
A-B |
| Noise class / noise level |
A-B / 68-72 dB |
A-B / 67-72 dB |
- Asymmetric tread design: Optimized contact patch for improved traction and even pressure distribution on the road surface
- Modern silica rubber compound: High-quality material composition for optimum balance between grip, wear and rolling resistance
- EU tire label class A or B: High ratings in the categories of fuel efficiency and wet grip according to European standards
- Reinforced sidewall: Robust construction for increased stability when cornering and lateral guidance
- Optimized tread depth: Factory tread depth of 8mm for maximum durability and safety
- Temperature-resistant construction: Heat-resistant materials for consistent performance even at high temperatures
- Precision manufacturing: High-quality production standards for consistent quality and concentricity
- Environmentally friendly production: Sustainable manufacturing processes with a reduced CO2 footprint
| Feature |
Michelin Pilot Sport 5 |
Continental PremiumContact 7 |
| Tread pattern |
Sporty oriented block structure |
Comfort-oriented groove design |
| Rubber compound |
Functionalized elastomers |
Silica-Plus technology |
| Main strength |
Dry grip and sportiness |
Wet grip and comfort |
| Mileage |
Up to 20% higher mileage |
Standard mileage |
| Rolling resistance |
Very low rolling resistance |
Low rolling resistance |
| Wet grip |
Good wet grip |
Excellent wet grip |
| Dry grip |
Excellent dry grip |
Good dry grip |
| Special features |
Dynamic Response Technology |
ContiSilent technology available |
Conclusion
The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 and Continental PremiumContact 7 represent different philosophies in the premium segment of summer tires. The Pilot Sport 5 impresses with its sporty orientation with excellent dry grip and precise steering, making it ideal for sporty drivers and vehicles with higher performance. The PremiumContact 7, on the other hand, focuses on comfort and wet grip, making it the optimal choice for drivers who value driving comfort and safety in changing weather conditions. Both tires offer excellent quality and performance in their respective strengths, so the decision depends primarily on individual driving preferences and operating conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which tire offers better fuel efficiency?
The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 has a lower rolling resistance and more often achieves EU label class A fuel efficiency. This can lead to savings of up to 0.2 liters per 100 kilometers. The Continental PremiumContact 7 is also in the good range, but achieves the top rating less frequently.
How do the braking distances differ on wet roads?
The Continental PremiumContact 7 shows shorter braking distances in the wet and consistently achieves EU label class A or B for wet grip. The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 also offers good wet grip, but is slightly behind the Continental model in extreme wet conditions. Both tires meet high safety standards.
Which tire is quieter when driving?
The Continental PremiumContact 7 is basically optimized for low noise development and achieves values from 67 dB. ContiSilent technology is available as an option, which further reduces rolling noise. At 68-72 dB, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is in the normal range for sports tires.
How long do the tires last under normal use?
The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 offers up to 20% higher mileage and reaches 50,000-60,000 kilometers under normal driving conditions. The Continental PremiumContact 7 has a mileage of around 45,000-55,000 kilometers. Both values can vary depending on driving style and vehicle type.
Are both tires suitable for electric vehicles?
Both tire models are suitable for electric vehicles and are available in XL reinforcement. The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 offers advantages in terms of range thanks to its lower rolling resistance. The Continental PremiumContact 7 scores with lower noise levels, which is particularly appreciated by electric vehicles.
Which tire is better suited to sporty driving?
The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is specially developed for sporty driving and offers superior dry grip and precise steering response. It is available in sizes up to 22 inches and achieves speed indices up to ZR. The Continental PremiumContact 7 is more comfort-oriented.
Are there differences in the availability of different sizes?
The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is available in a wider range of 16-22 inches and widths up to 325mm, which makes it attractive for sports cars and SUVs. The Continental PremiumContact 7 covers the 15-21 inch range with widths up to 275mm and focuses on common passenger car dimensions.
25 August 2025 (updated) 
