Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Nexen N Fera Sport SU2: Welcome to the ultimate tire showdown! In one corner, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5, launched in 2022, showcases the latest in high-performance innovation. In the other, the Nexen N Fera Sport SU2, launched in 2018, has proven its prowess on the road. Get ready for an epic battle in the ultra-high performance summer tire segment!
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Results: Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Nexen N Fera Sport SU2
Results below were taken from the 2023 AutoBild UHP 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 Nexen N Fera Sport SU2 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 Nexen N Fera Sport SU2. For wet braking, the Michelin stops in 40.6 meters, while the Nexen takes 42.5 meters, a difference of 1.9 meters. In wet handling, the Michelin averages 75.5 km/h compared to the Nexen’s 73.5 km/h. When it comes to straight aquaplaning resistance, the Michelin slips at 105.7 km/h, whereas the Nexen slips at 102.4 km/h.
N Fera Sport SU2 :
- -4% in wet braking
- -3% in wet handling (lap speed)
- -3% in straight aquaplaning
Dry
In dry conditions, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 slightly outperforms the Nexen N Fera Sport SU2. For dry braking, the Michelin stops in 34.1 meters, while the Nexen takes 34.6 meters, a difference of 0.5 meters. In dry handling, the Michelin averages a speed of 119.1 km/h, compared to the Nexen’s 116.8 km/h.
N Fera Sport SU2 :
- -1% in dry braking
- -2% in dry handling
Wear
In terms of mileage, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 significantly outlasts the Nexen N Fera Sport SU2. The Michelin can endure up to 55,600 kilometers, while the Nexen only manages 34,400 kilometers, a substantial difference of 21,200 kilometers in favor of the Michelin.
N Fera Sport SU2 :
- -38% in mileage
Noise
When it comes to exterior noise, the Nexen N Fera Sport SU2 is quieter than the Michelin Pilot Sport 5. The Nexen produces 72.3 dB of noise, while the Michelin is slightly louder at 73.8 dB, a difference of 1.5 dB in favor of the Nexen.
N Fera Sport SU2 :
- +2% in exterior noise (-1.5 dB)
Rolling Resistance
In terms of rolling resistance, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is more efficient than the Nexen N Fera Sport SU2. The Michelin has a rolling resistance of 8.09 N/kN, while the Nexen has a higher resistance at 8.86 N/kN, making the Michelin 0.77 N/kN more efficient.
N Fera Sport SU2 :
- -9% in rolling resistance
Price
In terms of price for the tire size 225/45 R18, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 costs €180, while the Nexen N Fera Sport SU2 is priced at €104. This makes the Nexen 73% cheaper than the Michelin.
Tire size: 225/45 R18
- Pilot Sport 5 : €180
- N Fera Sport SU2 : €104
Difference: -73% more cheaper for N Fera Sport SU2
Summary
As a tire expert, I can confidently state that the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is the clear winner despite its higher price. It offers superior performance in wet and dry conditions, with shorter braking distances and better handling. Additionally, its significantly longer mileage and more efficient rolling resistance make it a standout choice for those seeking top-tier performance and durability. While the Nexen N Fera Sport SU2 is budget-friendly and provides a quieter ride, the overall performance and longevity of the Michelin justify the investment.
Dr Edwin Pang