Bridgestone Potenza Sport vs Falken Azenis FK520: In the ultra-high performance tire segment, a fierce battle is brewing between two top contenders: the Bridgestone Potenza Sport and the Falken Azenis FK520. Launched in 2021, the Potenza Sport quickly became a benchmark for performance enthusiasts, delivering exceptional grip, handling, and stability.
Meanwhile, the Azenis FK520, which hit the market in 2022, has been making waves with its innovative design and cutting-edge technology. As these two titans clash, drivers can expect an exhilarating showdown, with each tire pushing the limits of performance and redefining what’s possible on the road. Buckle up for a thrilling ride as we dive into this epic tire rivalry!
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Results: Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S vs Falken Azenis FK520
Results below were taken from 2023 Sport Auto UHP Tire Test with a total of 11 tires tested, The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S vs Falken Azenis FK520 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 225/40R18 which is a common tire size for Audi A3 & Volkswagen Golf . You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a Audi S3 Sportback.
Dry
In the ultra-high performance tire segment, dry performance is crucial, often determining the tire’s suitability for both spirited road driving and track day usage. When comparing the Bridgestone Potenza Sport and the Falken Azenis FK520, their dry braking capabilities are identical, both bringing a car from 100 km/h to a standstill in 35.2 meters.
However, the Potenza Sport edges out slightly in dry handling, achieving an average speed of 101.1 km/h compared to the FK520’s 100.6 km/h. This slight advantage in dry handling makes the Potenza Sport a marginally better choice for drivers seeking top-tier performance on dry surfaces.
Azenis FK520 :
- 0% in dry braking
- ~0% in dry handling (average speed)
Wet
In the wet performance comparison, the Falken Azenis FK520 slightly outperforms the Bridgestone Potenza Sport in wet braking, stopping a car from 100 km/h in 24.5 meters compared to the Potenza Sport’s 25.4 meters. However, in wet handling, the Potenza Sport is superior, maintaining an average speed of 88.7 km/h, significantly faster than the FK520’s 83.1 km/h.
On the wet circle test, the Potenza Sport demonstrates a higher cornering speed at 8.81 m/s, while the FK520 achieves 8.3 m/s. When it comes to straight aquaplaning, the FK520 excels with a maximum slipping speed of 80.6 km/h, marginally better than the Potenza Sport’s 79.3 km/h. In curved aquaplaning, the FK520 shows a slight edge with a maximum lateral acceleration of 3.47 m/sec² compared to the Potenza Sport’s 3.38 m/sec².
Overall, while the FK520 offers better wet braking and aquaplaning resistance, the Potenza Sport shines in wet handling and cornering stability.
Azenis FK520 :
- +4% in wet braking
- -6% in wet handling (average speed)
- -6% in wet circle
- +2% in straight aquaplaning
- +3% in curved aquaplaning
Exterior Noise
When comparing exterior noise performance, the Falken Azenis FK520 is slightly quieter than the Bridgestone Potenza Sport, producing 71.3 dB compared to the Potenza Sport’s 71.6 dB. This marginal difference in noise levels indicates that both tires provide a relatively similar and quiet driving experience, with the FK520 having a slight edge in reducing exterior noise.
Azenis FK520 :
- ~0% in exterior noise (-0.3 dB)
Rolling Resistance
In terms of rolling resistance, the Falken Azenis FK520 outperforms the Bridgestone Potenza Sport, with a lower rolling resistance of 8.6 N/kN compared to the Potenza Sport’s 10.2 N/kN. This indicates that the FK520 is more efficient, potentially leading to better fuel economy and less energy loss during driving.
Azenis FK520 :
- +19% in rolling resistance
Price
When comparing prices for the 265/35 R19 tire size, the Falken Azenis FK520 is significantly more affordable at €88, while the Bridgestone Potenza Sport is priced at €228. This makes the Azenis FK520 approximately 160% cheaper than the Potenza Sport, offering a much more budget-friendly option without compromising on performance.
Tire size: 265/35 R19
- Pilot Sport 4 S: € 228
- Azenis FK520 : € 88
Difference: -160% more cheaper for Azenis FK520.
Summary
As a tire expert, I find the Bridgestone Potenza Sport and Falken Azenis FK520 each offer distinct advantages. The Potenza Sport excels in dry handling and wet stability, making it ideal for drivers seeking top-tier performance and cornering prowess. On the other hand, the FK520 shines with superior wet braking, lower rolling resistance, and a quieter ride, all at a significantly lower price. Both tires are exceptional in their own right, catering to different priorities and driving needs.
Dr Edwin Pang