Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Track Tires: In the quest for the ultimate one-size-fits-all tire, enthusiasts often ponder whether a single tire can truly excel on both road and track. The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 steps into the arena against dedicated track contenders—the Dunlop Direzza DZ03G, Yokohama A052, Yokohama Advan Neova AD09, Nankang AR-1, and Nankang CR-S—in a high-octane showdown on the race track. This duel promises to test the boundaries of performance, versatility, and endurance.
As we gear up for a clash that pits the all-rounder against the specialists, one question looms large: Can the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 outperform dedicated track tires? Get ready for an electrifying comparison that will challenge perceptions and maybe even redefine what we expect from our tires on the track.
Table of Contents
Results: Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Track day tires
Results below were taken from 2023 Tegiwa RWD Track Day Tyre Test with a total of 6 tires tested, The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Dunlop Direzza DZ03G vs Yokohama A052 vs Yokohama Advan Neova AD09 vs Nankang AR-1 vs Nankang CR-S based on the relevant performance category.
Note that since the primary goal was to see how well the tires perform on the track, dry handling lap time was used as an objective metric. The tire size of interest is 235/40R18 in the front and a 265/35R18 at the back which is a common setup for sports car like Mercedes-Benz SLC 300 AMG Line. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a F22 BMW M240i.
Dry
In the dry performance comparison of the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 against a lineup of dedicated track tires, it’s clear that the Pilot Sport 5 shows a commendable performance by finishing in the mid-pack, with a lap time identical to the Nankang AR-1 and outperforming the Nankang CR-S. This suggests that the Michelin Pilot Sport 5, despite being designed as a versatile tire suitable for both road and occasional track use, can hold its own in dry track conditions against more track-focused tires.
The Dunlop Direzza DZ03G led the pack with the fastest lap time, showing a specialization in dry track performance that outpaces the versatility-focused Michelin. Following closely were the Yokohama A052 and Yokohama Advan Neova AD09, both of which also edged out the Michelin in terms of lap time, reinforcing the idea that dedicated track tires have an edge in optimized dry track conditions.
However, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5’s performance is particularly impressive, given its design intent. It matched the lap time of the Nankang AR-1, a tire known for its track capabilities, and even surpassed the Nankang CR-S. This indicates that the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 offers a blend of road and track capabilities that does not significantly compromise on track performance, especially in dry conditions.
Subjectively, feedback highlighted the Pilot Sport 5’s balanced performance profile. Its ability to compete closely with dedicated track tires while still providing the benefits of a road tire — such as wet weather performance and daily driving comfort — makes it an appealing option for drivers who frequent both the road and the track. This versatility, coupled with its competitive lap times in dry conditions, underscores the Michelin Pilot Sport 5’s capability as a tire that bridges the gap between daily driving and track day excitement, offering a solid performance without the need to switch tires for different uses.
Pilot Sport 5 :
- +1.14 seconds slower than 1st place Dunlop Direzza DZ03G
- -0.2 seconds faster than last place Nankang CR-S
Wear
Based on the feedback after track day, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 (PS5) and Yokohama Advan Neova AD09 demonstrate superior wear characteristics when compared to the Yokohama A052, Nankang CR-S, and Nankang AR-1. This indicates that both the PS5 and AD09 offer longer mileage and, by extension, better durability, making them more suitable for drivers who prioritize tire longevity along with performance. The Yokohama A052, Nankang CR-S, and Nankang AR-1, while possibly offering certain performance advantages, tend to wear faster, suggesting they might be more focused on delivering peak performance at the expense of shorter overall lifespan.
- Mileage : Pilot Sport 5 & ADO9 >> A052 ,CSR & AR 1
Price
When comparing the prices of the tires in the specified size of 225/40R18, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5, priced at £118, emerges as the most cost-effective option among its peers. This offers a significant price advantage for those seeking a blend of performance and value.
The Dunlop Direzza DZ03G, the most expensive in this comparison, is priced at £282, which is substantially higher than the Pilot Sport 5. Similarly, the Yokohama Advan A052 is priced at £266, also positioning it at a higher price point compared to the Michelin.
Nankang’s offerings, the AR-1 and CR-S, are priced at £179 and £203, respectively. While they are more affordable than the Dunlop and Yokohama options, they still command a higher price than the Michelin Pilot Sport 5.
In summary, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 not only stands out for its performance and wear characteristics, as discussed earlier, but also offers the best value in terms of upfront cost. This combination of affordability, durability, and performance potentially makes it a compelling choice for drivers looking for an all-around tire that excels both on the road and during occasional track days.
Tire size: 225/40R18
Summary
As a tire expert who has seen countless tires come and go, tested them on tracks, and scrutinized their performances under various conditions, I’ve arrived at a nuanced conclusion regarding whether the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 can outperform dedicated track tires like the Dunlop Direzza DZ03G, Yokohama A052, Yokohama Advan Neova AD09, Nankang AR-1, and Nankang CR-S.
The Michelin Pilot Sport 5, while an exceptional tire in its own right, offering impressive versatility and performance for a road tire, does face limitations when pitted directly against dedicated track tires in their domain. Track tires are specifically designed with a singular focus: to deliver the utmost performance on the racetrack. They often sacrifice longevity and wet-weather handling to maximize grip, responsiveness, and speed in dry track conditions. In these areas, the specialization of track tires becomes evident, and they typically hold an edge over an all-rounder like the Pilot Sport 5.
However, the question isn’t just about outright performance. It’s about finding a balance that suits the needs of enthusiasts who may not want, or have the luxury, to switch between road and track tires. In this broader context, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 shines brightly. It offers commendable performance on the track for a tire that also excels in everyday driving conditions, including wet roads, where many track tires falter. Its wear characteristics and value proposition further bolster its appeal, making it an excellent choice for drivers seeking a single tire solution.
So, can the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 outperform dedicated track tires? On a purely performance-focused analysis, it may not always top the charts against specialized track tires designed for maximum track performance. Yet, when considering versatility, durability, and overall value, the Pilot Sport 5 presents a compelling case. It may not always outperform dedicated track tires on their turf, but it bridges the gap between the track and the road with remarkable proficiency. For many enthusiasts, this blend of performance and practicality is precisely what makes the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 a winner.
Dr Edwin Pang