Continental UltraContact UC7 vs Michelin Primacy 4 ST: The Ultimate Touring Showdown –> In the ever-evolving landscape of touring tires, two giants stand out among the rest, setting new standards in performance, safety, and durability. On one hand, Continental have the recently released Continental UltraContact UC7, a late 2022 entrant that has swiftly captured the attention of drivers and enthusiasts alike. This tire, which we have extensively covered, boasts significant upgrades from its predecessor, especially in wet conditions, showcasing Continental’s commitment to innovation and excellence.
On the other side of the ring stands the Michelin Primacy 4 ST, a tire that has long been regarded as the best in its class. With a stellar reputation for delivering unparalleled performance and reliability, the Primacy 4 ST has set a high bar in the touring segment, leaving competitors striving to catch up.
As these two titans collide, we are left to ponder: which tire will reign supreme in the APAC touring segment? Who will take the crown and etch their name in tire history? Join us as we delve deep into the features, performance, and capabilities of the Continental UltraContact UC7 and the Michelin Primacy 4 ST, and witness the epic battle unfold.
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Results: Continental UltraContact UC7 vs Michelin Primacy 4 ST
Results below were taken from our own 2023 Top Tire Review APAC Touring Tire Test with a total of 6 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Continental UltraContact UC7 vs Michelin Primacy 4 ST based on the relevant performance category. The Continental UltraContact UC7 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
For handling performances, the evaluation was done on the subjective evaluation and lap times. Note that for subjective evaluations, we consider 1 point to be equivalent to 10%. This means that if tire A receives a rating of 7 and tire B receives a rating of 8, tire B is deemed 10% better than tire A. For noise tests, an increase of 1 dB corresponds to a 10% change in rating. This reflects the logarithmic nature of decibel measurements. We centered our tire test on the BMW F30 equipped with brand-new 225/45 R18 tires, amidst the tropical setting of West Java, Indonesia, with temperatures ranging between 28-35°C.
Wet
When it comes to wet performance, both the Continental UltraContact UC7 and Michelin Primacy 4 ST demonstrate exceptional capabilities, though with subtle differences that could sway a discerning driver’s preference.
Starting with wet braking, the distances are remarkably close, with the Michelin Primacy 4 ST having a slight edge at 18.75 meters from 80 to 5 km/h, compared to the 18.84 meters required by the Continental UltraContact UC7. This minuscule difference underscores the impressive braking abilities of both tires, ensuring short stopping distances even in challenging wet conditions.
In subjective wet handling assessments, the Michelin Primacy 4 ST again takes a narrow lead with a rating of 7.7 out of 10, compared to the 7.5 rating of the Continental UltraContact UC7. Drivers may perceive the Primacy 4 ST as providing a slightly more confident and controlled experience during wet maneuvers.
However, when we turn our attention to objective wet handling performance measured through lap times, the Michelin Primacy 4 ST widens the gap with a faster lap time of 26.3 seconds, outperforming the UltraContact UC7’s time of 27.7 seconds. This indicates that the Primacy 4 ST might offer better agility and responsiveness in wet conditions.
Lastly, in terms of aquaplaning resistance, the Continental UltraContact UC7 showcases its strength with a higher slipping speed of 77.53 km/h, compared to the 76.81 km/h of the Michelin Primacy 4 ST. This suggests that the UltraContact UC7 may provide slightly better protection against aquaplaning, ensuring that the vehicle maintains better contact with the road surface even in heavy rain.
In summary, while both tires deliver commendable wet performance, the Michelin Primacy 4 ST generally provides a marginal shorter braking distances and better handling, whereas the Continental UltraContact UC7 offers superior resistance to aquaplaning. Ultimately, the choice between these two formidable options may come down to the specific priorities and preferences of the driver.
Primacy 4 ST :
- ~0% in wet braking
- +2% in wet handling (subj)
- +6% in wet handling (lap time)
- -1% in aquaplaning
Dry
When it comes to dry performance, the Continental UltraContact UC7 and Michelin Primacy 4 ST are closely matched, offering drivers a similar level of confidence and control.
In terms of dry braking, the differences between the two tires are minimal. The UltraContact UC7 requires 36.07 meters to come to a stop from 100 km/h, while the Primacy 4 ST needs 36.01 meters. This demonstrates that both tires excel in providing reliable braking performance on dry surfaces.
Subjective dry handling assessments reveal that both tires earn a commendable rating of 7.4 out of 10. However due to decimal averages, the Primacy 4ST had just that tiny fraction advantage. This signifies that drivers can expect a balanced and responsive handling experience, regardless of whether they opt for the Continental UltraContact UC7 or the Michelin Primacy 4 ST.
In objective dry handling performance measured through lap times, the Continental UltraContact UC7 shows a slight advantage with a faster time of 26.9 seconds compared to the Primacy 4 ST’s time of 27.4 seconds. This suggests that the UltraContact UC7 may offer slightly better agility and responsiveness in dry conditions, making it an appealing choice for those seeking optimal dry handling performance.
In summary, both tires deliver strong dry performance, with nearly identical braking capabilities and subjective handling scores. The Continental UltraContact UC7 gains a small edge in objective dry handling through faster lap times. Drivers can confidently choose either tire for excellent dry performance, depending on their individual preferences and priorities.
Primacy 4 ST :
- 0% in dry braking
- +1% in dry handling (subj)
- -2% in dry handling (lap time)
NVH (Noise Vibration & Harshness)
When it comes to NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) performance, both the Continental UltraContact UC7 and the Michelin Primacy 4 ST offer a high level of refinement, making them intriguing choices for drivers who prioritize a quiet and comfortable driving experience.
In terms of pass-by noise, the Michelin Primacy 4 ST takes the lead with a lower decibel rating of 69.9 dB compared to the UltraContact UC7’s 70.7 dB. This indicates that the Primacy 4 ST generates slightly less noise when your vehicle passes by, contributing to a quieter environment for pedestrians and other road users.
However, when it comes to interior noise, the UltraContact UC7 demonstrates an advantage with a lower reading of 71.7 dB compared to the Primacy 4 ST’s 72.7 dB. This suggests that the UltraContact UC7 may provide a quieter cabin for its occupants, resulting in a more serene and comfortable driving experience.
Subjective comfort and noise assessments yield similar scores for both tires, with both the Continental UltraContact UC7 and the Michelin Primacy 4 ST receiving commendable ratings. These scores indicate that drivers and passengers are likely to find both tires equally comfortable and quiet, further enhancing the overall driving experience.
In summary, the Michelin Primacy 4 ST excels in pass-by noise, offering a quieter experience for those outside the vehicle. On the other hand, the Continental UltraContact UC7 provides a quieter interior environment, ensuring enhanced comfort for passengers. Both tires score well in subjective comfort and noise evaluations, making them intriguing options for drivers seeking a refined NVH performance, with the choice potentially hinging on whether one prioritizes noise inside the cabin or external pass-by noise.
Primacy 4 ST :
- +8% in pass by noise (-0.8 dB)
- -9% in interior noise (~+1 dB)
- +1% in subjective comfort
- 0% in subjective noise
Rolling Resistance
In the realm of rolling resistance, a crucial factor that directly influences fuel efficiency and the effective range of electric vehicles, both the Continental UltraContact UC7 and Michelin Primacy 4 ST demonstrate commendable performances. However, there are noteworthy distinctions that can sway the preferences of environmentally conscious drivers and those behind the wheel of electric vehicles.
The Michelin Primacy 4 ST showcases its efficiency with a lower rolling resistance coefficient of 7.8 N/KN, indicating that it requires less energy to roll, subsequently leading to potential savings in fuel consumption or an extended range for electric vehicles. In today’s automotive landscape, with the surge in popularity of electric vehicles, a tire’s rolling resistance has become an even more critical parameter, making the Primacy 4 ST an attractive option for those seeking to maximize their vehicle’s efficiency and range.
On the other hand, the Continental UltraContact UC7, while slightly behind with a rolling resistance coefficient of 8.3 N/KN, still offers a respectable level of efficiency that aligns with the demands of modern driving. .
In conclusion, while both tires provide efficient rolling resistance performances, the Michelin Primacy 4 ST holds a slight edge, particularly for drivers of electric vehicles and those who prioritize fuel efficiency. The rise of electric vehicles has placed a spotlight on the importance of tire efficiency, making the lower rolling resistance of the Primacy 4 ST a notable advantage.
Primacy 4 ST :
- +6% in rolling resistance
Price
When it comes to purchasing tires, price plays a significant role in the decision-making process. In the case of the Continental UltraContact UC7 and Michelin Primacy 4 ST in the size 225/45 R18, there is a notable difference in their cost that warrants attention.
Tire size: 225/45 R18
- UltraContact UC7: RM 580
- Primacy 4 ST : RM 678
Difference: +15% more expensive for Primacy 4 ST
The UltraContact UC7, priced at RM 580, presents itself as a more budget-friendly option, providing a range of commendable tire characteristics at a lower price point. This makes it an attractive choice for drivers looking to balance performance with cost-effectiveness.
On the other hand, the Michelin Primacy 4 ST carries a heftier price tag of RM 678, making it 15% more expensive than the UltraContact UC7. While the Primacy 4 ST offers exceptional performance, especially in wet conditions, and a refined NVH experience, the substantial price difference cannot be overlooked.
For budget-conscious consumers or those who prioritize value for money, the Continental UltraContact UC7 stands out as the more economical option, delivering a balanced performance across various parameters without breaking the bank. However, for those willing to invest more for the renowned quality and performance of Michelin tires, and perhaps prioritize specific tire characteristics where the Primacy 4 ST excels, the higher cost might be justifiable.
Ultimately, the choice between these two tires will depend on the individual’s priorities, budget, and willingness to pay a premium for the specific advantages offered by the Michelin Primacy 4 ST.
Summary
Having meticulously examined the Continental UltraContact UC7 and Michelin Primacy 4 ST across various performance parameters, it is evident that both tires bring their unique strengths to the table, catering to different preferences and needs.
The Continental UltraContact UC7 stands out for its affordability, providing a balanced and commendable performance in both wet and dry conditions at a more budget-friendly price point. With its superior resistance to aquaplaning and a quieter interior noise level, it ensures a safe and comfortable driving experience, particularly appealing to those who prioritize cabin comfort and cost-effectiveness.
On the other hand, the Michelin Primacy 4 ST, despite its higher price tag, justifies its cost with exceptional wet handling capabilities and a lower rolling resistance coefficient. These attributes not only translate to superior safety and control in challenging wet conditions but also contribute to fuel efficiency and extended range for electric vehicles, aligning seamlessly with the evolving automotive landscape.
From a tire expert’s perspective, while the Continental UltraContact UC7 is a strong contender offering great value, the Michelin Primacy 4 ST ultimately takes the crown in this duel. Its overall package is superb especially performances in wet conditions, coupled with its efficiency advantages, make it a top choice for discerning drivers who seek the best in class tire performance, even if it comes at a premium.
Dr Edwin Pang