Comparison: Continental PremiumContact 7 vs. Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs. Firestone Roadhawk 2

When comparing the Continental PremiumContact 7 and the Michelin Pilot Sport 5, test results and lab summaries point to two of the best summer tyres available — but with clear, consistent differences. Our aggregated rating gives the PremiumContact 7 97% and the Pilot Sport 5 95%, and independent tests mostly place the Continental narrowly ahead.

Test positions across major magazines show a repeating pattern: SportAuto ranked the PremiumContact 7 1st and the Pilot Sport 5 2nd; AutoZeitung placed Continental 2nd vs Michelin 4th; ACE and AutoBild also put Continental one rank above Michelin in their comparisons (Autobild: 5 vs 6; ACE: 2 vs 3). These consistent placements underline that the Continental is the marginal overall winner in mixed test conditions.

Strengths — Continental PremiumContact 7

• Wet performance and aquaplaning: repeatedly highlighted as one of the best in wet braking and aquaplaning resistance (both longitudinal and cross) in SportAuto, AutoBild and TyreReviews.


• Low rolling resistance and efficiency: excellent economy figures and low noise in independent labs.


• Balanced ride and comfort: praised for precision, predictable handling and good comfort levels — a very well-rounded touring summer tyre.

Weaknesses — Continental PremiumContact 7

• Performance drop as the tyre wears: some tests (TyreReviews) noted wet braking falls off more when worn compared with rivals.


• Slightly less “sporty” steering feel than the predecessor for drivers seeking raw engagement.


• Higher price vs average competitors.

Strengths — Michelin Pilot Sport 5

• Durability and tread life: consistently the longest-wearing tyre in comparative tests (TyreReviews), making it a great choice if mileage and longevity matter.


• Dry performance and progressive handling: shortest dry braking distances in some tests and excellent steering precision; very engaging on dry roads.


• Very consistent across conditions with a solid balance between grip and comfort.

Weaknesses — Michelin Pilot Sport 5

• Marginally weaker wet grip and corner aquaplaning resistance versus the Continental — some testers report less reserve in wet cornering.


• Generally higher purchase cost; in a few evaluations reviewers also noted a firmer, slightly harsher rolling feel and occasional “prelling” sensation.

Practical verdict: if your priority is all‑round safety in wet conditions, the Continental PremiumContact 7 is the safer pick — it narrowly wins more head‑to‑head tests and offers superior aquaplaning resistance and wet braking. If you prioritise tread life, consistent dry performance and a more sporting character, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is an excellent alternative that rewards high-mileage drivers.

Neither tyre has an announced replacement model at this time. Read more on each tyre pages: Continental PremiumContact 7 and Michelin Pilot Sport 5. Manufacturer info: Continental and Michelin.