Pirelli P Zero PZ5 vs Falken Azenis FK520 – Ultra-High Performance Face-Off! The all-new Pirelli P Zero PZ5 has exploded onto the UUHP scene, stunning the competition by outperforming even top guns like the Continental SportContact 7 in recent benchmark tests. Now, it sets its sights on the Falken Azenis FK520 — a proven value-packed performer with sharp handling and strong wet grip. Can Falken hold the line, or will Pirelli’s revamped champion continue its rampage through the UUHP ranks? The battle for ultra-high performance dominance begins now.
Table of Contents
Results: Pirelli P Zero PZ5 vs Falken Azenis FK520
The results presented here are from the Tyre Review’s Best Performance Tyres For 2025 Test, where 7 of the best UUHP tire models were selected. The accompanying graph provides a side-by-side comparison of the Pirelli P Zero PZ5 vs Falken Azenis FK520 across various performance categories, with the Bridgestone Potenza Sport serving as the benchmark at 100%.
The tire size of interest is the 225/40R18 tire size, a popular choice for vehicles like the BMW 3 series Audi A4. For further insights into various tire sizes, feel free to consult our latest tire size table. The tests were conducted using a standard Volkswagen Golf as the test vehicle.
Wet
In wet braking, the Pirelli P Zero PZ5 stops 0.09 meters earlier than the Falken Azenis FK520, a close to 0% shorter distance. During wet handling, the Pirelli completes the lap 0.99 seconds faster, translating to a 1% quicker time. In subjective wet handling, the Pirelli scores 0.5 points higher, or roughly 3% better in driver confidence and control. However, in straight-line aquaplaning, the Falken edges ahead by 1.5 km/h, a 2% higher resistance to hydroplaning.
In conclusion, the Pirelli P Zero PZ5 slightly outperforms the FK520 in braking and handling, offering sharper wet grip, while the Falken retains a small edge in aquaplaning resistance.
Azenis FK520 :
- ~0% in wet braking
- -1% in wet handling
- -3% in subjective wet handling
- +2% in aquaplaning
Dry
In dry braking, the Pirelli P Zero PZ5 stops 0.42 meters shorter than the Falken Azenis FK520, a 1% improvement in stopping distance. In dry handling, the Pirelli is 1.5 seconds faster around the course, making it 2% quicker overall. Subjectively, the Pirelli scores 0.75 points higher in handling feel, which is an 4% advantage in driver-rated precision and response.
In conclusion, the Pirelli P Zero PZ5 clearly outperforms the FK520 in all dry performance aspects, delivering shorter stops, faster lap times, and sharper handling feedback.
Azenis FK520 :
- -1% in dry braking
- -2% in dry handling
- -4% in subjective dry handling
Comfort & Noise
In subjective comfort, the Pirelli P Zero PZ5 scores 0.5 points higher than the Falken Azenis FK520, offering a 3% smoother ride experience. However, in exterior noise levels, the Falken is 0.5 dB quieter than the Pirelli, which translates to roughly a 1% lower noise level.
Azenis FK520 :
- -3% in subjective comfort
- +1% in exterior noise (-0.5 dB)
Rolling Resistance
Both the Pirelli P Zero PZ5 and the Falken Azenis FK520 record identical rolling resistance values at 8.9 N/kN, meaning there’s no difference in energy efficiency between the two.
Azenis FK520 :
- 0% in rolling resistance
Price
In size 225/40 R18, the Falken Azenis FK520 is €13 cheaper than the Pirelli P Zero PZ5, making it 14% more affordable.
Tire size: 225/40 R18
- P Zero PZ5 : € 104
- Azenis FK520 : € 91
Difference: -14% more cheaper for Azenis FK520.
Summary
As a tire expert, I’d say the Pirelli P Zero PZ5 is the clear winner. It delivers better performance in both wet and dry conditions, with sharper handling, shorter braking, and superior driving feel. While the Falken Azenis FK520 offers strong value and slightly lower noise, the PZ5’s overall grip and control make it the superior ultra-high performance choice.
Dr Edwin Pang