Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S vs Hankook Ventus S1 Evo Z K129: In the world of Ultra-High Performance (UUHP) tires, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S and the Hankook Ventus S1 Evo Z K129 stand out as formidable contenders. Launched in 2017, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S has long been the benchmark for performance, delivering exceptional grip, handling, and longevity.
On the other hand, the Hankook Ventus S1 Evo Z K129, introduced in 2020, brings fresh competition to the segment with cutting-edge technology and design. The stage is set for an epic showdown: can the newcomer from Hankook dethrone the well-established champion, Michelin? The battle for supremacy in the UUHP segment is on!
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Results: Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S vs Hankook Ventus S1 Evo Z K129
Results below were taken from 2024 Autobild Sports Car UUHP Tire Test with a total of 7 tires tested, The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S vs Hankook Ventus S1 Evo Z K129 based on the relevant performance category. Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Note that for both wet & dry handling evaluation, the average lap speed was used instead of the standard lap time & subjective rating. The tire size of interest is a 265/35R19 at the front and 295/30R20 at the rear which is a common tire size configuration for Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG . You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT .
Dry
In the Ultra-High Performance (UUHP) tire segment, dry performance, especially handling, is paramount. When comparing the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S and the Hankook Ventus S1 Evo Z K129, the Michelin tire proves superior in both dry braking and dry handling. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S stops in 37.8 meters from 100 km/h, outperforming the Hankook’s 39.7 meters. This 1.9-meter difference can be critical in high-speed scenarios.
Furthermore, the Michelin tire excels in dry handling, achieving an average speed of 109.9 km/h compared to the Hankook’s 106.6 km/h. This 3.3 km/h advantage underscores the Pilot Sport 4 S’s dominance in delivering precise and confident handling on dry surfaces.
Ventus S1 Evo Z K129 :
- -5% in dry braking
- -3% in dry handling (average speed)
Wet
When it comes to wet performance, the Hankook Ventus S1 Evo Z K129 generally outperforms the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S in several key areas. In wet braking, the Hankook stops in 50.2 meters from 100 km/h, which is 3.2 meters shorter than the Michelin’s 53.4 meters. This significant difference highlights the Hankook’s superior wet braking capability. In wet handling, however, the Michelin slightly edges out the Hankook with an average speed of 76.6 km/h compared to 76.1 km/h. This small margin indicates that both tires perform similarly in wet handling scenarios.
For the wet circle test, the Michelin completes the lap in 11.14 seconds, faster than the Hankook’s 11.56 seconds, demonstrating better lateral grip in wet conditions. However, in straight-line aquaplaning resistance, the Hankook excels with a slipping speed of 99.5 km/h, surpassing the Michelin’s 94.4 km/h. This indicates that the Hankook tire can better resist hydroplaning at higher speeds, providing more stability in heavy rain conditions.
Ventus S1 Evo Z K129 :
- +6% in wet braking
- -1% in wet handling (average speed)
- -4% in wet circle
- +5% in straight aquaplaning
Exterior Noise
In terms of exterior noise performance, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S is noticeably quieter than the Hankook Ventus S1 Evo Z K129. The Michelin tire produces 71.2 dB of noise, while the Hankook generates 72.8 dB. This 1.6 dB difference means that the Michelin provides a quieter ride, which can significantly enhance driving comfort, especially on longer journeys.
Ventus S1 Evo Z K129 :
- -2% in exterior noise (+1.6 dB)
Rolling Resistance
In terms of rolling resistance, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S outperforms the Hankook Ventus S1 Evo Z K129. The Michelin tire has a rolling resistance of 8.11 N/kN, which is lower than the Hankook’s 8.55 N/kN. This 0.44 N/kN difference indicates that the Michelin offers better fuel efficiency and less energy loss, contributing to improved overall performance and economy.
Ventus S1 Evo Z K129 :
- -5% in rolling resistance
Price
When comparing prices for the tire size 265/35 R19, the Hankook Ventus S1 Evo Z K129 is significantly cheaper than the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S. The Michelin is priced at €341, while the Hankook costs €199. This means the Hankook is 71% less expensive than the Michelin, offering substantial cost savings for those prioritizing budget.
Tire size: 265/35 R19
- Pilot Sport 4 S: € 341
- Ventus S1 Evo Z K129 : € 199
Difference: -71% more cheaper for Ventus S1 Evo Z K129.
Summary
As a tire expert, I can say both the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S and the Hankook Ventus S1 Evo Z K129 have their distinct advantages. The Michelin excels in dry handling, providing superior control and slightly better wet handling, with a quieter ride and lower rolling resistance, making it a top choice for performance and comfort.
Dr Edwin Pang
On the other hand, the Hankook shines in wet braking and straight-line aquaplaning resistance, offering impressive safety in wet conditions. Additionally, its significantly lower price makes it an attractive option for those looking for high performance at a more affordable cost. Each tire has its strengths, and the best choice depends on your specific driving needs and budget.