Continental WinterContact TS 870 P vs Semperit Speed Grip 5: The Continental WinterContact TS 870 P, launched in 2021, faces off against the Semperit Speed-Grip 5, also released in 2021. As a premium tire, the TS 870 P aims to dominate with cutting-edge winter technology, while the Speed-Grip 5, positioned under Continental’s umbrella as a budget-friendly alternative, offers great value without compromising essential performance. This battle pits premium precision against budget brilliance, challenging the TS 870 P to defend its crown in the highly competitive middle European winter segment. Will the Speed-Grip 5’s bang-for-buck appeal be enough to disrupt Continental’s stronghold?
Table of Contents
Results: Continental WinterContact TS 870 P vs Semperit Speed Grip 5
Results below were taken from 2024 ADAC 17″ winter tire test with a total of 16 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Continental WinterContact TS 870 P vs Semperit Speed Grip 5 based on the relevant performance category. The Continental WinterContact TS 870 P was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Since we are talking about winter segment with both tires having the converted 3 peak mountain logo, the snow & ice performance was tested. The tire size of interest is a 215/55 R17 which is a common tire size for Honda HR-V & Audi SQ2. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a Volkswagen T-Roc.
Wet
The Continental WinterContact TS 870 P stops 1.3 meters shorter than the Semperit Speed-Grip 5 in wet braking, offering a slight edge in stopping power. However, the Speed-Grip 5 outperforms in straight-line aquaplaning resistance, managing 2.9 km/h more speed before losing grip. No big surprises here.
Speed Grip 5 :
- -4% in wet braking
- +4% in straight aquaplaning
Snow
The Semperit Speed-Grip 5 stops 0.1 meters shorter than the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P in snow braking. It also delivers better snow traction, with 8 Newtons more pulling force. With the advantage going to Semperit, we are surprised that the budget sister took the lead, albeit just slightly.
Speed Grip 5 :
- +1% in snow braking
- +4% in snow traction
Ice
The Continental WinterContact TS 870 P stops 0.7 meters shorter than the Semperit Speed-Grip 5 on ice, giving it a slight edge in icy conditions.
Speed Grip 5 :
- -4% in ice braking
Mileage & Abrasion
The big surprise comes in the form of mileage, with the Semperit Speed-Grip 5 providing undeniable value. It lasts 10,200 km longer than the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P, which has a total mileage of 43,300 km in comparison to the 53,500 km of the Semperit Speed-Grip 5. Additionally, the Semperit shows better durability, with 59 mg/km/t tread abrasion versus 64 mg/km/t for the Continental.
Speed Grip 5 :
- +24% in mileage
- +8% in abrasion
Dry
The Continental WinterContact TS 870 P stops 1.6 meters shorter than the Semperit Speed-Grip 5 in dry braking, showcasing better stopping power on dry roads.
Speed Grip 5 :
- -4% in dry braking
Price
The product positioning of premium and budget is clearly reflected in the pricing. The Continental WinterContact TS 870 P is priced at €171, while the Semperit Speed-Grip 5 costs €140, making the Semperit 22% cheaper.
Tire size: 215/55R17
- WinterContact TS 870 P : € 171
- Speed Grip 5 : € 140
Difference: -22% more cheaper for Speed Grip 5
Expert Conclusion
From my perspective as a tire expert, the Semperit Speed-Grip 5 offers exceptional value. It surprises with better snow traction, slightly shorter snow braking, and superior mileage, all while maintaining strong aquaplaning resistance. The Continental WinterContact TS 870 P excels with better wet and dry braking and edges ahead on ice, reflecting its premium positioning. However, with the Semperit delivering solid all-around performance at 22% lower cost, it presents an unbeatable value proposition for those seeking reliable winter performance without breaking the bank.
Dr Edwin Pang