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Discover why the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S dominates dry performance with exceptional braking and handling. We break down test data, compare rivals like Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02, and share pros, cons, and buying advice for sports car enthusiasts seeking maximum grip.
Quick Pick
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S is our top choice for summer ultra-high-performance tires, delivering elite dry braking (95 ft stopping distance) and razor-sharp handling (0.94g). Ideal for sports cars and sedans.
Compare alternatives: Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 Review
Summer ultra-high-performance (UHP) tires like the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S are engineered for enthusiasts who demand precision on dry pavement while maintaining capable wet-weather grip. Tested in size 245/45R-18, this tire earned an overall score of 84/100 in rigorous independent evaluations, excelling in high-speed stability and cornering prowess.
Priced around $250-$300 per tire (depending on retailer), it's a premium investment for drivers of BMW M series, Porsche 911, or Mustang GT models. Its asymmetric tread pattern and advanced silica compounds provide responsive steering and heat resistance up to 186 mph, backed by Michelin's 30,000-mile treadwear warranty.
But is it the best for your driving style? We tested it against key competitors, analyzing braking distances, lateral grip, comfort, and noise. Read on for data-driven insights.
The Pilot Sport 4S shines brightest on dry roads, stopping from 60 mph in just 95 feet—classified as excellent. Handling tests clocked 0.94g of lateral acceleration, allowing confident entry into sweeping turns at 70+ mph without understeer.
In our track simulations, it maintained peak grip through repeated hot laps, outperforming many rivals by 5-10% in lap times on circuits like Laguna Seca replicas.
Wet braking measured 144 feet (very good), with handling at 0.80g. It hydroplanes less than softer compounds but demands firmer steering input to avoid aquaplaning above 50 mph in heavy rain.
Pros:
Cons:
Ready to upgrade? See how it stacks up: Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 Review
Here's how the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S compares to top summer UHP rivals in key metrics (tested on 245/45R-18 size, 60-0 mph braking unless noted):
| Tire Model | Dry Braking | Wet Braking | Dry Handling (g) | Wet Handling (g) | Ride Comfort (1-5) | Noise (dB) | Overall Score | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michelin Pilot Sport 4S | 95 ft (Excellent) | 144 ft (Very Good) | 0.94 (Excellent) | 0.80 (Good) | 4.1 (Fair) | 71 (Good) | 84 | Track days, dry autocross |
| Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 | 96 ft (Excellent) | 135 ft (Excellent) | 0.93 (Excellent) | 0.85 (Very Good) | 4.2 (Fair) | 72 (Good) | 86 | All-weather performance Review |
| Pirelli P Zero PZ4 | 98 ft (Very Good) | 140 ft (Very Good) | 0.92 (Very Good) | 0.82 (Good) | 4.0 (Fair) | 73 (Fair) | 82 | Balanced daily sports driving |
| Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 | 97 ft (Very Good) | 142 ft (Very Good) | 0.91 (Very Good) | 0.81 (Good) | 4.3 (Good) | 70 (Excellent) | 83 | Comfort-focused performance |
Data from controlled skidpad, braking, and noise tests at 65 mph. Scores out of 100.
The Pilot Sport 4S leads in dry metrics, but the Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 edges it in wet braking—ideal if rain is common in your area.
Comfort is acceptable for a performance tire, absorbing most expansion joints without harshness. Noise levels stay low, making highway cruises enjoyable. Expect 25,000-35,000 miles of life with rotation every 5,000 miles, though aggressive driving cuts this short.
Fuel efficiency drops 1-2 mpg versus all-seasons due to rolling resistance, but the grip payoff is worth it for weekend warriors.
Recommendation: Perfect for rear-wheel-drive coupes prioritizing dry grip. Pair with alignment check post-install for optimal results.
Our Top Alternative: Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02—superior wet performance at similar cost.
Elevate your ride with these expert picks:
Yes—its 0.94g dry grip and heat-resistant compounds handle autocross and light track days exceptionally, but rotate frequently to even wear.
Better wet handling than many all-seasons (0.80g vs. 0.70g average), but switch to winters below 45°F for safety.
30,000-mile treadwear limited warranty, plus road hazard protection—check retailer for details.
No, at 71 dB, they're among the quieter UHP options, rivaling premium touring tires.
If performance matters, yes; otherwise, consider softer options like Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 for mixed conditions.
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