Last Updated on March 5, 2025
Battle of the Best- Continental ExtremeContact Sport vs Michelin Pilot Sport 4S – Which Rides the Roads Better
High-performance tires are always exciting because they embody the latest in tire technology and rubber compound, and they evolve along with automotive technology and the latest performance cars. For a long time, the most well-respected and dominant street performance tire was the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S. However, the Continental ExtremeContact Sport emerged as a worthy contender; performing well on both track and street.
In this article, we’re answering two big questions: Which tire is better? And, what is the best summer tire for performance cars in 2025? The best way to find that out is to pit Continental vs. Michelin high-performance tires against each other and see who comes out on top.
What To Know When Buying High-Performance Tires?
High-performance tires are designed to extract the maximum grip, handling, and braking power from your vehicle. Based on this, you should be purchasing your next set based on the characteristics, thread life, and design that would be most compatible with your wheels.
If you track your car, you’ll need super-aggressive and sticky tires. However, if you drive on public roads, you’ll need a grippy tire, which can handle wet conditions, everyday traffic, and highway driving. The tire will give you what you need when you want it but will be perfectly docile in normal conditions. So, let’s see which one is the winner, Michelin or Continental.
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S vs. Continental ExtremeContact Sport
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S is an ultra-high-performance summer tire designed for sports cars, high-performance sedans, and supercars. It aims to deliver exceptional dry and wet traction, precise handling, and extended tread life.
Specifications:
- Type: Max Performance Summer Tire
- Available Sizes: 17 to 22 inches
- Load Index: Varies by size
- Speed Rating: Y (up to 186 mph)
- Treadwear Rating: 300
- Traction Rating: AA
- Temperature Rating: A
Features:
- Bi-Compound Technology: This technology utilizes two different rubber compounds on the inner and outer sections of the tread to optimize performance.
- Dynamic Response Technology: A hybrid belt of aramid and nylon ensures optimal transmission of steering instructions to the road.
- Premium Touch Sidewall: Enhances the aesthetic appeal with a velvet-like finish.
- High-Silica Content: Improves wet grip and braking performance.
- Pricing: From $233 per tire.
Continental ExtremeContact Sport
The Continental ExtremeContact Sport is a max-performance summer tire engineered for sports cars, performance sedans, and powerful crossovers. It focuses on delivering excellent wet and dry traction, responsive handling, and a comfortable ride.
Specifications:
- Type: Max Performance Summer Tire
- Available Sizes: 15 to 20 inches
- Load Index: Varies by size
- Speed Rating: W (up to 168 mph) and Y (up to 186 mph)
- Treadwear Rating: 340
- Traction Rating: AA
- Temperature Rating: A
Features:
- SportPlus™ Technology and +Silane Additives: This combination improves handling on wet roads, braking performance, extending the tread life overall.
- Asymmetric Tread Design: The larger tread blocks on the outer shoulders and a continuous center rib for improved handling and steering response.
- QuickView Performance Indicators: Molded into the tread to visually indicate the tire’s suitability for dry and wet conditions.
- Pricing: From $160 per tire.
Comparison
- Dry Performance: The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S offers exceptional dry handling and steering precision, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
- Wet Performance: The Continental ExtremeContact Sport excels in wet conditions, prviding superior damp braking and hydroplaning resistance.
- Comfort and Noise: The Pilot Sport 4S provides a more comfortable and quieter ride compared to the ExtremeContact Sport.
- Tread Life: Both tires offer a 30,000-mile treadwear warranty, but the ExtremeContact Sport has a higher treadwear rating (340 vs. 300), suggesting a potentially longer tread life.
- Price: The pricing difference is significant, and Continental is much more affordable than Michelin.
Why Tires Easy Is The Best Place For Shopping For High-Performance Tires
Besides being bonafide tire fans and experts, Tires Easy offers fantastic deals with the best prices and terms. This includes a 45-day return policy, free delivery, and a wide range of high-quality, high-performance rubber tires. What sets us apart is our vast network of 1000+ trusted tire installers, like Pep Boys and Monro, with free shipping to their locations. Tires Easy has almost 2000 installer locations in the U.S., and the number is constantly rising. If you opt for this service (free shipping and installation), you’ll get a fantastic deal that is tough to beat. With over 7 million tires sold, Tires Easy is the best choice on the market.
Conclusion
Both the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S and the Continental ExtremeContact Sport are top-tier max-performance summer tires. Instead of them being in competition, they equally excel in different areas – making them both winners. If you prioritize superior dry handling, steering precision, and a comfortable ride, choose the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S. If you want outstanding wet traction, hydroplaning resistance, longer tread life, and a more budget-friendly option – the Continental ExtremeContact Sport is the best option for you.
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