Comparison: Semperit Speed-Life 3 vs. Michelin Primacy 4+ vs. Michelin Pilot Sport 5

Semperit Speed-Life 3 and Michelin Primacy 4+ are both summer tyres aimed at everyday drivers, but they deliver very different results in independent tests. The Primacy 4+ is a touring tyre from Michelin, while the Speed-Life 3 is Semperit’s value-oriented option from Semperit. Our overall ratings reflect that gap: Michelin 76% vs Semperit 47%.

Test results at a glance

• Autobild (55 tyres): Michelin 5th (also praised for very low exterior noise), Semperit 23rd.


• ADAC (50 tyres): Michelin 3rd, Semperit 19th.


• Autoklub ČR (19 tyres): Michelin 2nd, Semperit 10th.

What the tests say

• Michelin Primacy 4+: Frequently described as very balanced with high performance potential. Reviewers highlight good handling on dry and wet roads, short dry braking distances, and an excellent projected mileage with strong economy. Autobild also singled it out for low exterior noise. No notable weaknesses were reported in ADAC’s 2024 summary.


• Semperit Speed-Life 3: Praised for good wet-road safety, very high predicted tread life, low abrasion, and solid efficiency. However, multiple tests note it’s not fully balanced with clear weaknesses on dry roads (dry handling and drivability), and ADAC pointed to a weaker environmental balance versus top rivals.

Strengths and weaknesses

• Michelin Primacy 4+
  
  
  
  • Strengths: Balanced dry/wet performance, precise handling, short dry braking, very high mileage and economy, quiet exterior noise.
  
  
  • Weaknesses: None consistently reported in the 2024 test cycle.
  
  
  
  


• Semperit Speed-Life 3
  
  
  
  • Strengths: Wet grip and safety, efficiency, low wear, long life for the price.
  
  
  • Weaknesses: Dry handling and overall balance lag behind premium competitors; environmental rating not top-tier.
  
  
  
  

Head-to-head verdict
If you prioritize all-round safety and comfort, the Michelin Primacy 4+ is the clear winner in comparative tests, delivering a rare mix of wet and dry grip, quietness, and standout longevity. The Semperit Speed-Life 3 remains a sensible budget-conscious choice with good wet performance and high mileage, but its dry-road shortcomings keep it mid-pack in major rankings.

Model lifecycle

• Michelin Primacy 4+ has been replaced by the newer Michelin Primacy 5, which continues the brand’s comfort and longevity focus.


• Semperit Speed-Life 3: No direct successor is currently listed on our site.

Bottom line: For drivers seeking the best overall result in summer tyre tests, choose Michelin Primacy 4+. For those prioritizing value, wet safety, and long wear and willing to accept modest dry-handling performance, Semperit Speed-Life 3 is a reasonable alternative.