Tests 80 · 28 tests Owners 63 · 735 reviews
Best test result: #1 of 52 in 2025 Summer Tyre Test Shootout (dry braking)
“Replacement tires. Bridgestone Potenza Sport. 8k miles. Fronts/Rears. WTF Bridgestone? Or is it me? No burnouts!”
Head-to-head
Updated
Bridgestone Potenza Sport vs Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S — Compared
Relative Score (0–100): the weighted average of the categories below, each 60% road tests and 40% owner reviews (comfort 40/60). Based on 28 + 27 road tests and 735 + 6,667 owner reviews. How we score
Pilot Sport 4 S is ahead, 83–73
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Tests 81 · 27 tests Owners 86 · 6,667 reviews
Best test result: #1 of 15 in 2021 Auto Bild 19 inch Summer Tyre Test (dry braking)
“A note about the pilot sport 4 S: in cold weather (below 5 degrees) even if it isn't icy, the tyre compound hardens and has dramatically reduced grip. They are excellent summer tyres though, good in the wet too. These days I run Uniroyal rainsport 5 and they're very good.”
Category by category
Relative Score per category, 0–100. Open “Why this score” for the tests and owner ratings behind it.
Key facts
- In 9 tests that measured dry braking for both, Potenza Sport won 6 and Pilot Sport 4 S won 3 (average 95% vs 98% of the best).
- In 9 tests that measured straight aquaplaning for both, Potenza Sport won 5 and Pilot Sport 4 S won 4 (average 96% vs 97% of the best).
- In 9 tests that measured rolling resistance for both, Potenza Sport won 0 and Pilot Sport 4 S won 9 (average 82% vs 90% of the best).
- In 8 tests that measured dry handling for both, Potenza Sport won 2 and Pilot Sport 4 S won 3 (average 99% vs 100% of the best).
- In 8 tests that measured wet braking for both, Potenza Sport won 3 and Pilot Sport 4 S won 5 (average 93% vs 95% of the best).
-
88
Dry
Pilot Sport 4 S +593Why this score
Source Potenza Sport Pilot Sport 4 S Professional tests (TWG score) · 27 / 25 tests 96 95 Reviews found online 74 92 Dry Braking (% of best) · 9 shared tests · wins 6–3 95% 98% Dry Handling (% of best) · 8 shared tests · wins 2–3 99% 100% Dry Handling (tester's mark) (% of best) · 4 shared tests · wins 1–1 96% 93% Dry (% of best) · 1 shared test · wins 0–1 84% 94% Subj. Elk Test (% of best) · 1 shared test · wins 0–0 90% 90% Dry Subj. Steering Response (% of best) · 1 shared test · wins 1–0 100% 90% Subj. Wet Circle (% of best) · 1 shared test · wins 1–0 90% 80% Potenza Sport: 60% × 96.3 + 40% × 74.4 = 88
Pilot Sport 4 S: 60% × 94.6 + 40% × 91.6 = 93
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86
Wet
Pilot Sport 4 S +288Why this score
Source Potenza Sport Pilot Sport 4 S Professional tests (TWG score) · 27 / 26 tests 95 86 Reviews found online 72 90 Curved Aquaplaning (% of best) · 4 shared tests · wins 3–1 94% 93% Straight Aquaplaning (% of best) · 9 shared tests · wins 5–4 96% 97% Wet Handling (tester's mark) (% of best) · 4 shared tests · wins 4–0 99% 85% Wet (% of best) · 1 shared test · wins 1–0 93% 88% Wet Lateral Stability (% of best) · 1 shared test · wins 1–0 100% 80% Wet Braking (% of best) · 8 shared tests · wins 3–5 93% 95% Wet Circle (% of best) · 4 shared tests · wins 3–1 99% 88% Wet Handling (% of best) · 8 shared tests · wins 7–1 99% 96% Potenza Sport: 60% × 94.8 + 40% × 72.4 = 86
Pilot Sport 4 S: 60% × 86 + 40% × 90.4 = 88
-
58
Comfort
Pilot Sport 4 S +2078Why this score
Source Potenza Sport Pilot Sport 4 S Professional tests (TWG score) · 4 / 6 tests 54 70 Reviews found online 61 84 Potenza Sport: 40% × 53.7 + 60% × 60.8 = 58
Pilot Sport 4 S: 40% × 70.4 + 60% × 83.5 = 78
-
43
Noise
Pilot Sport 4 S +2669Why this score
Source Potenza Sport Pilot Sport 4 S Professional tests (TWG score) · 23 / 20 tests 30 70 Reviews found online 63 ≈ 66 (est.) Interior Noise (% of best) · 1 shared test · wins 0–0 80% 80% Noise (% of best) · 5 shared tests · wins 0–4 97% 99% Exterior Noise (% of best) · 2 shared tests · wins 1–1 88% 85% Noise (tester's mark) (% of best) · 1 shared test · wins 0–1 90% 98% Potenza Sport: 60% × 30 + 40% × 62.9 = 43
Pilot Sport 4 S: 60% × 70.3 + 40% × 66.3 (est.) = 69
No owner ratings of noise for Pilot Sport 4 S. The owner half is the owners’ average (66): owners’ noise ratings barely follow the road tests, so the tests say nothing about how owners would rate it.
-
59
Treadwear
Pilot Sport 4 S +1372Why this score
Source Potenza Sport Pilot Sport 4 S Professional tests (TWG score) · 4 / 1 tests 71 70 Reviews found online 40 75 Potenza Sport: 60% × 71.3 + 40% × 39.6 = 59
Pilot Sport 4 S: 60% × 70.2 + 40% × 74.8 = 72
-
74
Handling (owners)
Pilot Sport 4 S +1690Why this score
Source Potenza Sport Pilot Sport 4 S Reviews found online 74 90 -
10
Efficiency
Pilot Sport 4 S +6272Why this score
Source Potenza Sport Pilot Sport 4 S Professional tests (TWG score) · 26 / 23 tests 10 72 Rolling Resistance (% of best) · 9 shared tests · wins 0–9 82% 90%
Scores at a glance
| Category | Bridgestone Potenza Sport | Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S |
|---|---|---|
| Relative Score | 73 | 83 |
| Dry | 88 | 93 |
| Wet | 86 | 88 |
| Comfort | 58 | 78 |
| Noise | 43 | 69 |
| Treadwear | 59 | 72 |
| Handling (owners) | 74 | 90 |
| Efficiency | 10 | 72 |
Higher is better. The Relative Score follows your weights below; category scores do not change.
Weight the categories that matter to you
Wet grip and treadwear start at “Important” — the two things buyers rank highest. Move the sliders and the scores update instantly.
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Recomputed
Headline score
73
/ 100
Potenza Sport
83
/ 100
Pilot Sport 4 S
The professional test results behind the scores
Per discipline: the average % of the best tire over every test both tires were in, and how many of those tests each one won. “Different tests” rows compare results from separate tests.
In the overall rankings of 10 tests that ran both, Bridgestone Potenza Sport finished ahead 2 times and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S 8 times.
| Discipline | Category | Potenza Sport | Pilot Sport 4 S | Δ | Head-to-head |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry | Dry | 84% | 94% | −10.2 | 0–1 in 1 shared test Newest: 2023 AUTO Straßenverkehr 2023 Summer Tire Test R18 · 225/40R18 |
| Dry Braking | Dry | 95% | 98% | −3.0 | 6–3 in 9 shared tests Newest: 2025 EVO Summer Tyre Test · 235/35 R19 |
| Dry Handling | Dry | 99% | 100% | −0.4 | 2–3 in 8 shared tests Newest: 2025 EVO Summer Tyre Test · 235/35 R19 |
| Dry Handling (tester's mark) | Dry | 96% | 93% | +2.8 | 1–1 in 4 shared tests Newest: 2025 EVO Summer Tyre Test · 235/35 R19 |
| Dry Subj. Steering Response | Dry | 100% | 90% | +10.0 | 1–0 in 1 shared test Newest: 2023 AUTO Straßenverkehr 2023 Summer Tire Test R18 · 225/40R18 |
| Subj. Elk Test | Dry | 90% | 90% | 0.0 | 0–0 in 1 shared test Newest: 2023 AUTO Straßenverkehr 2023 Summer Tire Test R18 · 225/40R18 |
| Subj. Wet Circle | Dry | 90% | 80% | +10.0 | 1–0 in 1 shared test Newest: 2023 AUTO Straßenverkehr 2023 Summer Tire Test R18 · 225/40R18 |
| Curved Aquaplaning | Wet | 94% | 93% | +0.4 | 3–1 in 4 shared tests Newest: 2025 EVO Summer Tyre Test · 235/35 R19 |
| Straight Aquaplaning | Wet | 96% | 97% | −1.4 | 5–4 in 9 shared tests Newest: 2025 EVO Summer Tyre Test · 235/35 R19 |
| Wet | Wet | 93% | 88% | +5.5 | 1–0 in 1 shared test Newest: 2023 AUTO Straßenverkehr 2023 Summer Tire Test R18 · 225/40R18 |
| Wet Braking | Wet | 93% | 95% | −2.0 | 3–5 in 8 shared tests Newest: 2024 Autobild Sportscars Summer TIre Test R20 · 295/30R20 |
| Wet Circle | Wet | 99% | 88% | +10.8 | 3–1 in 4 shared tests Newest: 2024 Autobild Sportscars Summer TIre Test R20 · 295/30R20 |
| Wet Handling | Wet | 99% | 96% | +2.6 | 7–1 in 8 shared tests Newest: 2025 EVO Summer Tyre Test · 235/35 R19 |
| Wet Handling (tester's mark) | Wet | 99% | 85% | +14.1 | 4–0 in 4 shared tests Newest: 2025 EVO Summer Tyre Test · 235/35 R19 |
| Wet Lateral Stability | Wet | 100% | 80% | +20.0 | 1–0 in 1 shared test Newest: 2023 AUTO Straßenverkehr 2023 Summer Tire Test R18 · 225/40R18 |
| Comfort (tester's mark) | Comfort | 90% #7/7 · Top Tire Review 2026 UHP Tyre Test: Big Brands vs Challengers | 84% #6/8 · 2026 Autobild Sports Cars Summer Tyre Test | – | Different tests |
| Exterior Noise | Noise | 88% | 85% | +3.3 | 1–1 in 2 shared tests Newest: 2024 Autobild Sportscars Summer TIre Test R20 · 295/30R20 |
| Interior Noise | Noise | 80% | 80% | 0.0 | 0–0 in 1 shared test Newest: 2023 AUTO Straßenverkehr 2023 Summer Tire Test R18 · 225/40R18 |
| Noise | Noise | 97% | 99% | −1.7 | 0–4 in 5 shared tests Newest: 2024 Sports Car Tyre Test · 265/35 R19 |
| Noise (tester's mark) | Noise | 90% | 98% | −8.2 | 0–1 in 1 shared test Newest: 2024 EVO Summer Tyre Test · 235/35 R19 |
| Rolling Resistance | Efficiency | 82% | 90% | −7.6 | 0–9 in 9 shared tests Newest: 2025 EVO Summer Tyre Test · 235/35 R19 |
| Also published by the testers (not in the score) | |||||
| Price | Cost | 57% | 48% | +8.9 | 3–1 in 4 shared tests Newest: 2023 Sport Auto UHP Tyre Test · 225/40 R18 |
| Road Rating (tester's mark) | Other | 95% | 100% | −4.8 | 0–1 in 1 shared test Newest: 2025 EVO Summer Tyre Test · 235/35 R19 |
| Overall Ranking | Overall | #1/9 | #5/9 | – | 2–8 in 10 shared tests Newest: 2025 EVO Summer Tyre Test · 235/35 R19 |
Pros, cons & observations
Themes extracted from owner reviews found online — not the opinion of TireWheelGuide.
Tire A Potenza Sport
Pros
- Outstanding dry and wet grip
- Precise, telepathic steering response and feedback
- Excellent braking performance
Cons
- Fast tread wear and short lifespan
- High road noise
- Firm, sometimes harsh ride quality over bumps
Tire B Pilot Sport 4 S
Pros
- Exceptional grip and predictable handling in both dry and wet conditions
- Noticeable reduction in road noise and improved ride comfort compared to competitors and run-flats
- Sharper steering response and improved cornering stability
Cons
- High initial purchase price
- Rapid tread wear reported by some aggressive drivers and track users
- Soft sidewalls can cause a slightly vague or laggy initial response during rapid steering transitions
What real owners are saying
From Reddit, forums and review threads. Not part of our score
Tire A
Mixed
Bridgestone Potenza Sport
The community praises the Bridgestone Potenza Sport for its exceptional dry and wet grip, sharp steering response, and value pricing compared to competitors. However, users frequently highlight drawbacks such as fast tread wear and poor durability when used for track days, along with some complaints regarding lower fuel economy and narrower physical dimensions.
r/fordfusion
·2 upvotes ·2026-09-16
“Just replaced my set of Potenza Sport AS. 2 side wall failures with 70% tread left. Replaced them with Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 4s. Michelin's are a much better riding tire than the Bridgestones. A little more road noise though.”
mustang6g.com
·2023-04-05
“Just moved to set a set of CSC7's. 265/35/20 and 305/30/20. They were a really good price. I moved from the Bridgestone Potenza Sport which is also a great tyre, but it becomes unpredicatable sub 12ºC or so, which is a shame. So far, the Conti's have been great and I'm keen to see how they handle the supercharger. The latest reviews of the CSC7 are really good - scooping all the top spots. Sadly the PS4S is old in comparison now, which can be seen in recent reviews with the new Goodyeaar Eage F1 Asymetric 6 and Pirelli P Zero PZ4 often ranking above the Michelin in test scores. That's not to say the Michelin has suddenly become bad - it is still a great tyre, it is just that there are now alternatives out there; most likely why the new Pilot Sport S 5 is coming soon.”
r/mazda6
·29 upvotes ·2023-04-08
“Trying Bridgestone Potenza Sports for summers with simple Spirt Edition A19 wheels Last fall I put Blizzaks WS90s on the stock rims, and had a confident time this winter. I love the stock Mazda rims and intended to swap on a set of performance summer tires. However decide to go with aftermarket wheels that match the stock as much as I could afford, so here they are. 19X8 SPORT EDITION A19 DARK GREY 225/45R-19 BRIDGESTONE POTENZA SPORT I love the look of the new rims maybe even more than the stock now that they are on simple as they are. Will have to see how the tires behave. I may decide to go back to a set of Conti DwS HiPer All-Seasons next year. Read more”
Top themes
#Steering response and feel#Dry and wet grip#Tread wear and longevity#Track performance limitations#Price and value
Based on 93 community posts
Tire B
Positive
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S
The community widely regards the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S as a benchmark max-performance summer tire, praising its outstanding dry and wet grip, stability, and daily driving refinement. Common criticisms focus on its premium price, rapid tread wear on high-powered heavy vehicles or hot track sessions, and significantly reduced grip in cold weather. Many enthusiasts consider it an ideal street tire, though some note softer sidewalls compared to predecessors or recommend dedicated track tires for hard circuit driving.
r/WRXSTi
·149 upvotes ·2025-07-09
“New tires Pilot Sport 4s got some new Pilot Sport 4s in 245/40/18. way different to my yokohama advan AS+. a lot more grip, obviously. very minimal to no sidewall flex. very good tires. i had pilot sport 3's on my 2013 hatchback wrx back in the day. feels good to get back on some good tires again. Read more”
r/TyreReviews
·41 upvotes ·2026-03-17
“Am I the owner of the newer PS4s?😁 Hello everyone, new in the sub and just want to share my love for the Pilot Sport 4s. This is the third set and I love it. To me they are the perfect compromise beetween performance anche tyre wear. Last set last me 43k km, I do lot of highway and some spirited drive when possibile. I also had a set of Sport Contact 7, awesome grip, to me better than the PS4s, almost too much for my stock Golf. They also wear out faster. I saw yesterday the review of Potenza Sport Evo and they promise very week, maybe next time I’ll try!”
r/TeslaModelS
·1 upvote ·2025-03-27
“I was running pilot sport 4s on my MS. (19” wheels) I was lucky to get 13,000-14,000. I just switched to Kumho Majesty 9’s for about 1/3 the price. Currently have 4,000 miles on them and just to rotated. Fingers crossed I can get 13,000 miles out of them.”
Top themes
#Wet and dry grip#Track day durability#High price vs alternatives#Tread life and wear#Cold weather performance#Sidewall stiffness and comfort
Based on 208 community posts
Specs side by side
| Attribute | A · Bridgestone Potenza Sport | B · Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Summer | Summer |
| Vehicle type | Passenger Car / Crossover | Passenger Car / Crossover |
| Sizes available | 128 | 110 |
| Rim diameters | 16″ – 24″ | 17″ – 22″ |
| Tread depth | 7 - 10/32″ | — |
| UTQG | 200 - 320 A - AA A | 300 A - AA A |
| Sidewall | Black Side Wall - Raised Black Lettering | — |
| Max pressure | 50 - 51 psi | — |
| Sizes in common | 71 | 71 |
Which one should you actually buy?
73
/ 100
Bridgestone Potenza Sport
83
/ 100
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S
Winner: Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S — better efficiency, noise and comfort. It leads or ties in every category we score.
Pick tire B
You want lower fuel or energy use
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S scores 72 vs 10 on efficiency.
Pick tire B
You want a quieter cabin
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S scores 69 vs 43 on noise.
Pick tire B
You want the most comfortable ride
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S scores 78 vs 58 on comfort.
Pick tire B
You enjoy sharp, responsive handling
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S scores 90 vs 74 on handling.
Pick tire A
Your priority is wet handling
Bridgestone Potenza Sport won 7 of 8 shared wet handling tests.
Tire A · Bridgestone Potenza Sport
Tire B · Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S
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Potenza Sport or Pilot Sport 4 S?
Which is better in the wet, Potenza Sport or Pilot Sport 4 S?
Neither, by our numbers: 86 vs 88 on the wet score, within 3 points.
Which grips better on dry roads, Potenza Sport or Pilot Sport 4 S?
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S, 93 vs 88 on our dry score.
Which is quieter, Potenza Sport or Pilot Sport 4 S?
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S, 69 vs 43 on our noise score.
Which is more comfortable, Potenza Sport or Pilot Sport 4 S?
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S, 78 vs 58 on our comfort score.
Which lasts longer, Potenza Sport or Pilot Sport 4 S?
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S, 72 vs 59 on our treadwear score.
Which rolls more easily, Potenza Sport or Pilot Sport 4 S?
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S, 72 vs 10 on our efficiency score.
How do we compare tires?
Every category score blends two independent signals. 60% comes from professional tire tests (braking distances, lap times, noise measurements), each result compared with every other tire in the same test and newer tests counting more. 40% comes from owner reviews found online, adjusted for how generously each site rates. Both use one scale: the average tested tire gets 70, the best 100. When a tire has only one of the two, the missing half is estimated from the other and the score stays closer to average; with no road test and fewer than five owner reviews it gets no score yet.
Handling is the exception: road tests measure it inside the dry and wet scores, so its own row comes from owner ratings only and starts as less important.
Community buzz from Reddit and forums is shown for context only — it never changes the score. Full methodology