Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Kumho Ecsta PS71: The Michelin Pilot Sport 5, launched in 2022, represents the latest in Michelin’s pursuit of ultra-high-performance tire technology. In contrast, the Kumho Ecsta PS71, introduced in 2016, has steadily built its reputation over the years. With recent advancements and impressive press test results, Kumho is poised to challenge the dominance of the Pilot Sport 5. Could this be the moment where the Kumho Ecsta PS71 emerges as a serious contender in the ultra-high-performance segment? Let’s delve into this thrilling matchup.
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Results: Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Kumho Ecsta PS71
Results below were taken from the 2023 AutoBild Summer Test while includes an amazing 50 tires from its preliminary braking rounds. Only 20 tires made it through to the final round and a full detail evaluation was completed with these 20 tires. The wet & dry handling performances are evaluated objectively using the average lap speed rather than the preferred subjective ratings.
The graph above shows the comparison between Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Kumho Ecsta PS71 based on the relevant performance category. The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark. The tire size of interest is 225/45 R18 which is a common tire size for Mercedes-Benz C 200 and Kia Stinger . You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle of choice is a BMW 3 series.
Wet
In wet conditions, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 outperforms the Kumho Ecsta PS71. It stops 1 meter shorter during wet braking (40.6m vs. 41.6m), providing a crucial safety margin. In wet handling, it navigates faster with an average speed of 75.5 km/h compared to the PS71’s 74.6 km/h, offering better control in curves.
For straight aquaplaning, the Pilot Sport 5 slips at 105.7 km/h, maintaining better traction than the PS71 at 103.7 km/h. Overall, while the Kumho delivers solid wet performance, the Michelin’s slight advantages in braking, handling, and aquaplaning make it the superior choice for wet driving conditions.
Ecsta PS71 :
- -2% in wet braking
- -1% in wet handling (lap speed)
- -2% in straight aquaplaning
Dry
In dry conditions, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 demonstrates superior performance compared to the Kumho Ecsta PS71. When braking from 100 km/h to a stop, the Pilot Sport 5 stops in 34.1 meters, a meter shorter than the PS71’s 35.1 meters, giving it an edge in stopping distance. For dry handling, the Pilot Sport 5 achieves an average speed of 119.1 km/h, slightly higher than the Ecsta PS71’s 118.4 km/h. This indicates the Pilot Sport 5 offers better grip and stability at high speeds. Overall, the Michelin tire consistently shows better dry performance, providing shorter braking distances and slightly improved handling over the Kumho.
Ecsta PS71 :
- -3% in dry braking
- -1% in dry handling
Wear
When it comes to mileage, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 far surpasses the Kumho Ecsta PS71. The Pilot Sport 5 offers an impressive wear performance, lasting up to 55,600 kilometers, which is a significant 16,800 kilometers more than the Ecsta PS71’s 38,800 kilometers. This substantial difference means the Michelin tire not only lasts longer but also offers better value over time.
The large gap in wear performance highlights a common conflict in tire design: balancing wet performance with durability. While both tires perform well in wet conditions, the Pilot Sport 5 achieves superior longevity without compromising its wet performance, making it a more balanced choice overall.
Ecsta PS71 :
- -30% in mileage
Noise
In terms of exterior noise, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is quieter than the Kumho Ecsta PS71. The Pilot Sport 5 produces 73.8 decibels of noise, making it 1.5 decibels quieter than the Ecsta PS71, which generates 75.3 decibels. This difference means the Michelin tire offers a noticeably quieter ride, contributing to a more comfortable driving experience.
Ecsta PS71 :
- -2% in exterior noise (+1.5 dB)
Rolling Resistance
The Kumho Ecsta PS71 has a slightly lower rolling resistance at 8.06 N/kN compared to the Michelin Pilot Sport 5’s 8.09 N/kN. This means the Ecsta PS71 is slightly more efficient, potentially offering better fuel economy. However, the difference is minimal, making both tires nearly equal in rolling resistance performance.
Ecsta PS71 :
- ~0% in rolling resistance
Price
In the 225/45 R18 size, the Kumho Ecsta PS71 is significantly cheaper than the Michelin Pilot Sport 5. The Ecsta PS71 costs €140, while the Pilot Sport 5 is priced at €177. This makes the Ecsta PS71 approximately 26% less expensive, offering a more budget-friendly option compared to the higher-priced Michelin tire.
Tire size: 225/45 R18
- Pilot Sport 5 : €177
- Ecsta PS71 : €140
Difference: -26% more cheaper for Ecsta PS71.
Summary
As a tire expert, I observed that the Kumho Ecsta PS71 and the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 were almost evenly matched in both wet and dry performance. Both tires showcased strong braking, handling, and aquaplaning capabilities. However, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 truly stands out with its superior mileage, lasting significantly longer than the Kumho Ecsta PS71.
Despite the Kumho’s competitive pricing and performance, the Michelin’s durability and overall balanced performance make it the clear winner in this comparison. For drivers seeking a tire that excels not only in immediate handling and braking but also in long-term value, the Pilot Sport 5 proves its worth.
Dr Edwin Pang