Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 vs Michelin Primacy 5: The all-new Michelin Primacy 5 has already proven its strengths against top contenders, and now it faces the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2. Interestingly, the P7 C2 already has a successor, the C3, out and tested, but the C2 is still here, ready to battle it out. Can the Primacy 5 continue its winning streak, or will the veteran P7 C2 prove it still has what it takes? Let’s find out!
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Results: Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 vs Michelin Primacy 5
The results presented here are from the UTAC/Aftonbladet Summer Tire Test, where 8 of the best summer tire models were selected plus an interesting addition of 4 all season tires. The accompanying graph provides a side-by-side comparison of the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 vs Michelin Primacy 5 across various performance categories, with the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 serving as the benchmark at 100%.
The tire size of interest is the 225/45R17 tire size, a popular choice for vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf & Toyota Corolla. For further insights into various tire sizes, feel free to consult our latest tire size table. The tests were conducted using a standard Audi A3 series as the test vehicle.
Wet
In wet conditions, the Michelin Primacy 5 stops 0.1 meters shorter than the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2, a minimal difference of close to 0%. However, the P7 C2 proves faster in wet handling, completing the lap 1.9 seconds quicker, translating to a 2% improvement in speed. Despite this, the Primacy 5 scores 1 point higher in subjective wet handling, reflecting an 5% better rating. Additionally, the Primacy 5 demonstrates superior straight-line aquaplaning resistance, outperforming the P7 C2 by 2 km/h, marking a 3% advantage. Overall, while the P7 C2 excels in handling speed, the Primacy 5 shows its strengths in braking, subjective handling, and aquaplaning.
Primacy 5 :
- ~0% in wet braking
- -2% in wet handling
- +5% in subj wet handling
- +3% in aquaplaning
Dry
In dry conditions, the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 stops 1.8 meters shorter than the Michelin Primacy 5, a significant difference of around 5%. Both tires receive identical scores of 9 points in subjective dry handling, indicating they perform equally well in terms of driver feel and control. Overall, while the P7 C2 clearly excels in dry braking, both tires are evenly matched when it comes to handling feedback.
Primacy 5 :
- -5% in dry braking
- 0% in dry handling
Wear
While mileage wasn’t directly tested in this comparison, we’re referencing data from previous tests. The Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 previously achieved 24,900 km, while the Michelin Primacy 4+ lasted 38,950 km. With the new Michelin Primacy 5 claiming a 22% increase in mileage over the Primacy 4+, we can estimate its lifespan at around 47,519 km. This means the Primacy 5 outlasts the P7 C2 by an impressive 22,619 km, representing a substantial 91% advantage in expected mileage.
Primacy 5 :
- +91% in mileage (estimated)
Noise
In terms of subjective noise, the Michelin Primacy 5 scores 1 point higher than the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2, reflecting an 11% improvement in perceived noise comfort. This indicates that the Primacy 5 is noticeably quieter, offering a more refined and comfortable ride compared to the P7 C2.
Primacy 5 :
- +5% in subjective noise
Rolling Resistance
In terms of rolling resistance, the Michelin Primacy 5 exhibits slightly lower resistance at 7.74 N/kN compared to the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2’s 7.9 N/kN, indicating a 2% improvement. This means the Primacy 5 is marginally more fuel-efficient, potentially contributing to lower energy consumption over time.
Primacy 5 :
- +2% in rolling resistance
Price
In the 225/45 R17 size, the Michelin Primacy 5 costs €119, while the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 is priced at €91. This makes the Primacy 5 €28 more expensive, representing a 31% higher cost compared to the P7 C2.
Tire size: 225/45 R17
- Cinturato P7 C2 : € 91
- Primacy 5 : € 119
Difference: +31% more expensive for Primacy 5
Summary
As a tire expert, I can confidently say that both the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 and the Michelin Primacy 5 have their unique strengths. The Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 excels in dry braking and wet handling speed, offering a more dynamic driving experience. On the other hand, the Michelin Primacy 5 stands out with superior wet braking, aquaplaning resistance, and noticeably quieter performance. Additionally, its impressive mileage significantly outlasts the P7 C2. While the Primacy 5 comes at a higher cost, it delivers a more balanced and refined performance, making it a strong contender for those prioritizing comfort and longevity.
Dr Edwin Pang