In the world of touring tires, the showdown between the Michelin Primacy 4 and Dunlop SP Sport LM705 is nothing short of epic! This battle of the behemoths is where premium performance meets the road, offering drivers unparalleled experiences in comfort, durability, and control. Each tire, a masterclass in its own right, promises to elevate your driving journey, making every mile a testament to the prowess of their engineering.
Will the refined technology and proven track record of Michelin’s Primacy 4 carry the day, or will the innovative design and exceptional value of Dunlop’s SP Sport LM705 redefine what we expect from touring tires? Buckle up, as we delve into this high-octane duel of the touring segment, where only the best will make your journey unforgettable!
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Results: Michelin Primacy 4 vs Dunlop SP Sport LM705
Results below were taken from 2023 YiChe Touring Tire Test with a total of 10 tires tested, The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin Primacy 4 vs Dunlop SP Sport LM705 based on the relevant performance category. The Michelin Primacy 4 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 205/55R16 which is a common tire size for Toyota Corolla & Nissan Almera. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a Volkswagen Golf.
Wet
When it comes to navigating wet conditions, both the Michelin Primacy 4 and Dunlop SP Sport LM705 showcase impressive performances, but with noticeable differences that set them apart. In wet braking scenarios from 80 to 0 km/h, the Michelin Primacy 4 takes the lead by stopping 5.11 meters shorter than the Dunlop SP Sport LM705. This difference is crucial for safety, especially in sudden downpours or slippery roads.
In terms of wet handling, which measures how well the tires can maintain grip and control while navigating through wet roads, the Michelin Primacy 4 again edges out with an average speed of 77.8 km/h compared to Dunlop’s 74.9 km/h. This indicates that the Primacy 4 offers slightly better stability and grip in wet conditions.
Looking at the performance on a wet circle, which tests the tire’s ability to handle tight turns on wet asphalt, the Michelin Primacy 4 completes an average lap just 0.3 seconds faster than the Dunlop SP Sport LM705. While the difference might seem small, it’s a testament to the Michelin’s superior grip and handling in wet conditions.
Lastly, when facing the threat of aquaplaning, where water between the tire and road surface can lead to a loss of control, the Michelin Primacy 4 demonstrates a higher average slipping speed of 77.3 km/h compared to the Dunlop’s 74.69 km/h. This higher resistance to aquaplaning by the Michelin indicates a better ability to disperse water and maintain contact with the road surface.
In summary, while both tires offer commendable wet performance, the Michelin Primacy 4 consistently outperforms the Dunlop SP Sport LM705 across various wet conditions tests, providing drivers with enhanced safety, control, and confidence on wet roads.
SP Sport LM705 :
- -10% in wet braking
- -4% in wet handling (average speed)
- -3% in wet circle
- -3% in straight aquaplaning
Dry
When we switch our focus to how the Michelin Primacy 4 and Dunlop SP Sport LM705 perform under dry conditions, the battle remains fiercely competitive, yet clear distinctions emerge. On dry surfaces, braking performance is critical for safety and precision driving. Here, the Michelin Primacy 4 demonstrates its prowess by stopping from 100 km/h to 0 km/h in 37.2 meters, which is 1.8 meters shorter than the Dunlop SP Sport LM705. This advantage signifies not just superior stopping power but also a heightened sense of security in sudden stop scenarios.
Moving on to dry handling, which gauges a tire’s ability to navigate turns, maintain stability, and respond to steering at higher speeds on dry roads, the Michelin again shows its edge. With an average speed of 116.4 km/h in dry handling tests, the Primacy 4 outpaces the Dunlop SP Sport LM705, which clocks in at 114.4 km/h. This difference highlights the Michelin’s enhanced grip and agility, offering drivers a more connected and responsive driving experience.
In essence, in dry conditions, the Michelin Primacy 4 slightly but consistently outshines the Dunlop SP Sport LM705, providing a tighter, more controlled ride with better stopping distances and handling speeds. These factors combine to deliver a driving experience that is not only safer but also more enjoyable for those behind the wheel.
SP Sport LM705 :
- -5% in dry braking
- -2% in dry handling (average speed)
Interior Noise
When considering the comfort aspect of tire performance, particularly the level of interior noise, both the Michelin Primacy 4 and Dunlop SP Sport LM705 exhibit remarkably similar characteristics. On smooth asphalt at a speed of 100 km/h, the interior noise produced by the Michelin Primacy 4 measures at 67.3 decibels (dB), while the Dunlop SP Sport LM705 produces slightly less noise at 67.2 dB.
This marginal difference of just 0.1 dB is virtually imperceptible to the human ear, indicating that both tires excel in providing a quiet and comfortable ride. In the realm of reducing cabin noise, it’s clear that both Michelin and Dunlop have engineered their tires to ensure that drivers and passengers alike can enjoy a serene driving experience, with the noise level being almost identical between the two.
SP Sport LM705 :
- ~0% in exterior noise (-0.1 dB)
Rolling Resistance
The Michelin Primacy 4 showcases a lower rolling resistance at 7.78 N/kN compared to the Dunlop SP Sport LM705’s 8.02 N/kN. This minor difference of 0.24 N/kN means the Michelin tire is slightly more energy-efficient, potentially offering better fuel economy and a reduced environmental impact over time. Essentially, the Michelin Primacy 4 demands less energy to move, making it a marginally more eco-friendly option between the two.
SP Sport LM705 :
- -3% in rolling resistance
Price
The Dunlop SP Sport LM705, priced at AUD 209, is notably more affordable than the Michelin Primacy 4, which costs AUD 319 for the same tire size (225/50R17). This makes the Dunlop tire 53% cheaper than its Michelin counterpart, offering a significant cost advantage for those looking for a more budget-friendly option without venturing into the realm of premium pricing.
Tire size: 225/50R17
- Primacy 4: AUD 319
- SP Sport LM705 : AUD 209
Difference: -53% more cheaper for SP Sport LM705
Summary
From my perspective as a tire expert, the Michelin Primacy 4 emerges as the clear victor over the Dunlop SP Sport LM705. Despite its higher price, the Primacy 4’s superior performance in wet and dry conditions, shorter stopping distances, and better handling make it a safer and more reliable choice. Its lower rolling resistance also suggests better fuel efficiency and a smaller environmental impact. While both tires offer similar comfort levels regarding interior noise, the overall advantages of the Michelin Primacy 4 in safety and performance solidify its position as the top choice for drivers who prioritize excellence in their tire selection.
Dr Edwin Pang