Prices change daily — check the retailer for your size.
Bridgestone Potenza S001 vs Michelin Pilot Sport 4 — Compared (September 2026)
Our Relative Score blends 60% objective test data with 40% owner-review signal — so any two tires can be compared even if they were never tested on the same day.
Prices change daily — check the retailer for your size.
TireWheelGuide may earn a commission from purchases made via links on this page.
6 categories, side by side
Each bar is the Relative Score for that category. Expand a tile to see the test results and owner ratings behind it.
Dry
Why this score
| Source | Potenza S001 | Pilot Sport 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Professional tests (TWG score) | 83 | 89 |
| Tire Rack owners | 88 | 93 |
| Tyre Reviews owners | 83 | 90 |
| SimpleTire owners | 80 | – |
| Dry Braking (% of best) | 93% | 96% |
| Dry Handling (% of best) | 98% | 97% |
Wet
Why this score
| Source | Potenza S001 | Pilot Sport 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Professional tests (TWG score) | 91 | 87 |
| Tire Rack owners | 80 | 87 |
| Tyre Reviews owners | 69 | 87 |
| SimpleTire owners | 80 | – |
| Wet Braking (% of best) | 87% | 97% |
| Wet Handling (% of best) | 94% | 93% |
Comfort
Why this score
| Source | Potenza S001 | Pilot Sport 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Professional tests (TWG score) | 34 | 83 |
| Tire Rack owners | 80 | 83 |
| Tyre Reviews owners | 60 | 78 |
| SimpleTire owners | 80 | – |
Noise
Why this score
| Source | Potenza S001 | Pilot Sport 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Professional tests (TWG score) | 80 | 74 |
| SimpleTire owners | 80 | – |
Treadwear
Why this score
| Source | Potenza S001 | Pilot Sport 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Tire Rack owners | 62 | 67 |
| Tyre Reviews owners | 67 | 74 |
| SimpleTire owners | 80 | – |
Handling
Why this score
| Source | Potenza S001 | Pilot Sport 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Reviews owners | 74 | 84 |
| DriverReviews owners | 84 | 90 |
Scores at a glance
| Category | Bridgestone Potenza S001 | Michelin Pilot Sport 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Relative Score | 72 | 89 |
| Dry | 83 | 92 |
| Wet | 82 | 89 |
| Comfort | 45 | 87 |
| Noise | 80 | 81 |
| Treadwear | 67 | 88 |
| Handling | 74 | 94 |
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.
Tire A
Tire B
The professional test results behind the scores
Each result is shown as % of the best tire in that test. “Same test” rows are the strictest comparison: both tires were measured side by side.
| Discipline | Category | Tire A | Tire B | Δ | Both? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Braking | Dry | 93% #7/8 · 2018 Auto Bild 20 inch UHP Tyre Test | 96% #9/11 · 2019 Auto Bild Sports Car Tyre Test | -3.1 | Different tests |
| Dry Handling | Dry | 98% #6/8 · 2018 Auto Bild 20 inch UHP Tyre Test | 97% #2/9 · 2021 EVO Summer Tyre Test | +0.8 | Different tests |
| Rolling Resistance | Efficiency | 93% #7/8 · 2018 Auto Bild 20 inch UHP Tyre Test | 88% #12/20 · 2020 Auto Bild Summer Tyre Test | +4.5 | Different tests |
| Noise | Other | 100% #6/8 · 2018 Auto Bild 20 inch UHP Tyre Test | 99% #14/20 · 2020 Auto Bild Summer Tyre Test | +1.1 | Different tests |
| Price | Other | 83% #18/20 · 2020 Auto Bild Summer Tyre Test | 100% #10/10 · 2021 Auto Zeitung Summer UHP Tyre Test | -16.5 | Different tests |
| Value | Other | 100% #19/20 · 2020 Auto Bild Summer Tyre Test | 77% #10/20 · 2019 Auto Bild Summer Tyre Test | +23 | Different tests |
| Wear | Other | 62% #12/20 · 2020 Auto Bild Summer Tyre Test | 94% #2/20 · 2019 Auto Bild Summer Tyre Test | -32.2 | Different tests |
| Overall Ranking | Overall | 9% #11/20 · 2020 Auto Bild Summer Tyre Test | 100% #1/20 · 2019 Auto Bild Summer Tyre Test | -90.9 | Different tests |
| Straight Aqua | Straight | 93% #3/8 · 2018 Auto Bild 20 inch UHP Tyre Test | 95% #5/14 · 2021 Tyre Reviews UHP Summer Tyre Test | -1.7 | Different tests |
| Subj. Comfort | Subj | 70% #5/8 · 2019 Sport Auto 20 Inch UHP Tyre Test | 78% #5/10 · 2021 Auto Zeitung Summer UHP Tyre Test | -7.8 | Different tests |
| Subj. Dry Handling | Subj | 90% #2/8 · 2019 Sport Auto 20 Inch UHP Tyre Test | 90% #2/16 · 2018 Test World Summer Tyre Test | 0 | Different tests |
| Subj. Wet Handling | Subj | 78% #3/8 · 2019 Sport Auto 20 Inch UHP Tyre Test | 60% #6/10 · 2021 Auto Zeitung Summer UHP Tyre Test | +18 | Different tests |
| Total Cost of Ownership | Total | 0% #20/20 · 2020 Auto Bild Summer Tyre Test | 0% #16/20 · 2020 Auto Bild Summer Tyre Test | 0 | Same test |
| Wet Braking | Wet | 87% #7/8 · 2018 Auto Bild 20 inch UHP Tyre Test | 97% #5/45 · 2019 Summer 53 Tyre Braking Shootout | -9.5 | Different tests |
| Wet Handling | Wet | 94% #6/8 · 2018 Auto Bild 20 inch UHP Tyre Test | 93% #6/9 · 2021 EVO Summer Tyre Test | +1.6 | Different tests |
Pros, cons & observations
Themes extracted from owner reviews across retailers and review sites — not the opinion of TireWheelGuide.
The Bridgestone Potenza S001 is a polarizing performance tire that excels in dry-weather handling and steering precision but frequently disappoints users regarding comfort and wet-weather confidence. While many drivers appreciate its stiff sidewalls and sporty feedback, a significant portion of the user base reports excessive road noise, rapid tread wear, and unpredictable traction in damp or cold conditions.
Pros
- Excellent dry-weather grip and cornering stability.
- Sharp, responsive steering feedback and turn-in precision.
- Strong rim protection due to robust sidewall construction.
- Predictable performance when pushed in warm, dry environments.
Cons
- High levels of road noise and cabin drone, especially as the tire wears.
- Poor wet-weather performance, with many reports of sudden traction loss and hydroplaning.
- Rapid and uneven tread wear, often failing to meet mileage expectations.
- Harsh ride quality, particularly on rough or uneven road surfaces.
Observations
- Owners of lightweight sports cars like the Mazda MX-5 frequently report that the tire feels too stiff and lacks the necessary wet-weather compliance for the chassis.
- Drivers of high-torque vehicles (e.g., VW Golf GTI, BMW 340i) often note significant wheel spin and traction control intervention in the wet.
- Users with 18-inch and 19-inch fitments frequently complain about the harshness and noise, noting that the tire transmits every road imperfection into the cabin.
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 is widely regarded as a premier high-performance summer tire, praised for its exceptional wet-weather traction and balanced daily-driving characteristics. While many users report a significant improvement in ride quality and noise levels compared to OEM run-flats or older performance tires, some enthusiasts note a softer sidewall that can feel less precise or 'darty' during aggressive cornering compared to dedicated track-focused rubber.
Pros
- Class-leading wet weather grip and hydroplaning resistance
- Excellent balance of comfort and road noise reduction for a performance tire
- Predictable and progressive handling characteristics
- Strong dry-weather traction and braking performance
- Significant upgrade over OEM run-flat tires in terms of ride quality
Cons
- Softer sidewalls can lead to a less 'sharp' or 'darty' steering feel
- Tread wear can be rapid, particularly with spirited driving or on high-torque vehicles
- Performance can drop off noticeably as tread depth decreases
- Higher price point compared to many competitors
- Some reports of increased road noise as the tire ages
Observations
- Tesla and EV owners frequently report a measurable decrease in range due to higher rolling resistance compared to OEM 'eco' tires.
- Users with heavy, high-torque vehicles (e.g., tuned sedans, performance wagons) often praise the tire's ability to put power down, though this comes at the cost of faster rear-tire wear.
- Drivers switching from run-flat tires on luxury vehicles (BMW, Audi, Mercedes) consistently report a transformative improvement in ride comfort and cabin noise.
What real owners are saying
From Reddit, forums and review threads. Not part of our score
Bridgestone Potenza S001
Community opinion on the Bridgestone Potenza S001 is divided, with some users praising their dry grip and stability, while many others criticize their rapid wear, stiffness (especially run-flat variants), noise, and cracking issues. Owners frequently compare them unfavorably to alternatives like Michelin or Pirelli, though budget-friendly deals tend to draw occasional interest.
“Mount all 4 tires Bridgestone Potenza S001 215/45R20 on i3s stock rims 5.5” front 15mm spacers and 6.5” rear After much convincing I have mounted all four tires of the same size purchased on TireRack for $83 each on i3s stock staggered rims. Smooth and stable. Looking gooddddddd!”
“Replacing Bridgestone Potenza s001 RunFlats with Primacy 5 vs. PS5. Suggestions? I drive a VW Jetta which only has 160 Hp. I do occasionally really enjoy some spirited driving or taking aggressive turns. My considerations are that I do really care about Comfort and road noise and so that leads me towards the Primacy 5. At the same time, I don't think the power of my car justifies the PS5. My question is basically, I've online that for runflats to be runflats they have really stiff sidewalls, which might be contributing to the current feel of my car and I wonder if, even though everything else about the Potenza s001 is quite worse compared to the Primacy 5, I wonder if I will miss the stiff sidewall? And just because of that should I consider the PS5?”
“Brand New Bridgestone Potenza S001 Tyres worn after 10k mileage? So I got 4 brand new tyres last June from Costco, 255/35 R19. I only drive locally, occasional trips to another city. 10k mileage later, my front two tyres flagged up on my recent MOT as : Nearside Front Tyre worn close to legal limit/worn on edge CHANGE ASAP (5.2.3 (e)) Offside Front Tyre worn close to legal limit/worn on edge EDGED (5.2.3 (e)) Seems surprising to me as I don't drive crazy, occasional spirited driving. 2011 Audi s5. is this normal? Thinking of getting another brand this time for the front two tyres. Car is a quattro but same types on same axis should suffice? Any recommendations on tyres? Read more”
“I put the Potenza S001 tires on the rear of my i3s with that Tire Rack deal but I didn't think they would fit on the 5.5 inch rims. I think the rears are 6.0".”
Based on 16 community posts
Michelin Pilot Sport 4
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 (and its variants) is widely praised by the community as a massive upgrade over stock run-flats and budget tires, offering exceptional dry and wet grip, precise steering feel, and improved ride comfort. While users frequently note trade-offs in tread life due to the softer rubber compound, and higher pricing, it remains a top-tier recommendation for spirited street driving and performance cars.
“Surprised by Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires - 2024 M440i Hey, BMW community. A year ago, I was lucky enough to order a 2024 M440i GC Xdrive. Spent hours driving different BMW's, tweaking my order sheet before my allocation was filled. Got the adaptive suspension, with 19's on Pirelli run-flats. After a few months, my San Remo GC was delivered. GREAT car. Now with ~17k miles, it was time for a routine service. And, apparently, new rear tires. Decided to just replace them all at the dealer. Went with what they recommended; Michelin Pilot Sport 4 (Star marked). What an upgrade! Steering feel, precision, comfort AND quiet. Anyone on the fence about the Pilot Sport 4 - highly recommended. Read more”
“Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires are noisy (a followup) I have been asked on this sub if the PS4 tires on my wife’s Bolt are noisy, and I wasn’t sure how to answer. Well, we made two 60-mile round trips this past weekend, mostly on highways with 55 and 70 mph speed limits, and I have to say that the tires are kind of noisy. Certainly not as quiet as EV-oriented tires are. The grip is fantastic, so we really like them. If you are sensitive to noise, though, these Max Performance class tires are probably not for you.”
“I just installed A/S PS4 from Michelin on my BRZ recently & man they are so nice. How quiet it is, is wow, night and day. They handle quite nice except when it's still cold (sub 40F) on highway, traction control triggers but it may bc I'm lowered and yet to do my alignment. I don't know compared to stock, I was on Falken prior. I am using different tire set-up then stock however. I have 245/35 at the front and 265/35 in rear. My only regret is not going up to 40 on the sidewall for more meat. This is on 18" wheels.”
“Those are Pilot sport 4 (all season). If it had s after the 4 it would be the summer high performance version. I put the pilot sport 4 on wife's GTI autobahn 2016. Great handling tire, stiff side walls, not the smoothest ride but best overall.”
Based on 117 community posts
Specs side by side
| Attribute | A · Bridgestone Potenza S001 | B · Michelin Pilot Sport 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Summer Max Performance tires | Summer Max Performance tires |
| Vehicle type | Passenger Car / Crossover | Passenger Car / Crossover |
| Sizes available | 15 | — |
| Rim diameters | 17″ – 21″ | — |
| Tread depth | 8/32″ | — |
| UTQG | 280 A A | — |
| Sidewall | Blackwall | — |
| Max pressure | 50 psi | — |
Which one should you actually buy?
Bridgestone
Michelin
Winner: Michelin Pilot Sport 4 — better comfort, treadwear and handling. It leads or ties in every category we score.
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 scores 87 vs 45 on comfort.
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 scores 88 vs 67 on treadwear.
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 scores 94 vs 74 on handling.
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 scores 92 vs 83 on dry.
How do we compare tires?
Every category score blends two independent signals. 60% comes from professional tire tests (braking distances, lap times, noise measurements) normalized against the best tire in each test and weighted toward recent tests. 40% comes from thousands of owner reviews collected from retailers and review sites. When a tire has only one of the two, we use what exists and say so.
Community buzz from Reddit and forums is shown for context only — it never changes the score.