Continental ContiSportContact 5
Built for spirited driving in warm weather, the Continental ContiSportContact 5 blends sharp handling with everyday comfort. Its summer compound and asymmetric tread deliver confident cornering and short stopping distances in the dry and the wet. A tuned contact patch helps it wear evenly and maintain consistent performance over time. Select fitments offer Continental SSR run flat and ContiSeal puncture sealing, and it should not be used in snow, ice, or near freezing temperatures.
Key features and technology
An asymmetric tread puts large outer shoulder blocks to work for lateral grip and stable cornering, while wide circumferential grooves help clear water. The warm weather compound bites quickly and supports confident braking as temperatures rise. A reinforced casing and optimized block stiffness keep the contact patch flat under load, promoting precise steering and even wear. In select sizes, SSR run flat construction allows limited mobility after a pressure loss, and ContiSeal can help seal small tread punctures.
Dry and wet performance
On dry pavement the ContiSportContact 5 feels planted and responsive, with quick turn in and calm mid corner behavior from its rigid outer shoulders. Braking is reassuring thanks to the high grip summer compound and a stable footprint. In wet conditions, wide longitudinal grooves and lateral channels move water away to cut hydroplaning risk, and the compound stays compliant for dependable traction in summer rain. Ride and noise are well controlled for a performance tire, but you will get the best results by keeping pressures set correctly and avoiding cold weather use.
Sizes, fitment, and options
The ContiSportContact 5 is offered in popular enthusiast sizes, including 225/40R18 and 255/35R19. Always confirm the exact size, load index, and speed rating on your driver door placard or in the owner manual, and match OE specs for proper handling and safety. Some sizes are available with SSR run flat mobility, while select fitments offer ContiSeal for added puncture protection. If your vehicle came from the factory on run flats, choose SSR or consult a professional before switching constructions.
Price and buying guidance
Price varies by size, load and speed rating, and whether you choose SSR or ContiSeal options. Larger diameters, higher speed ratings, and specialty constructions typically cost more. For value, purchase a complete set, budget for a quality alignment, and maintain correct pressures to protect performance and tread life. Shop early in peak seasons and check date codes to ensure fresh inventory.
How the ContiSportContact 5 compares
Shoppers often compare the ContiSportContact 5 with newer or more track leaning designs. The 5 targets real world balance, mixing warm weather grip with daily comfort and wet road confidence. If you want sharper responses or the latest generation tech, newer alternatives in the lineup may suit you, but many drivers will prefer the 5 for its easygoing street manners.
ContiSportContact 5 vs ContiSportContact 5P
Both are summer performance tires, but the ContiSportContact 5P typically serves higher output cars and prioritizes razor sharp response. The ContiSportContact 5 is tuned for everyday sporty driving, with a bit more emphasis on ride refinement and wet confidence. For a daily driver that sees spirited back roads, the 5 is often the more comfortable match. If ultimate steering immediacy and high speed stability matter most, the 5P can be the better fit, with the tradeoff of a firmer ride.
ContiSportContact 5 vs ContiSportContact 6
The ContiSportContact 6 is the newer generation with higher limits and updated construction. The ContiSportContact 5 remains a strong choice for balanced handling, comfort, and wet road assurance, and it can be easier to find in certain OE oriented sizes. If you want the latest grip and your size is available, the 6 offers a step up in outright performance. If you value a proven blend of comfort and summer traction, the 5 continues to deliver a satisfying drive.
ContiSportContact 5 vs Michelin Pilot Sport 4
Both the ContiSportContact 5 and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 target enthusiastic street use with strong dry and wet traction and a daily friendly ride. The ContiSportContact 5 leans into confident wet braking and ride composure. The Pilot Sport 4 is often praised for steering precision and broad size coverage. Priorities vary by vehicle and size, so compare ratings and feedback for your exact fitment.
Reviews and who it suits
Owners praise the ContiSportContact 5 for sure footed grip in the dry and the wet, predictable handling, and agreeable road manners for a performance tire. Many report short stopping distances in warm conditions and a ride that works for daily commuting. Like all summer tires, performance drops sharply as temperatures near freezing, and it should not be used in snow or on ice. Choose it if you want a confident, refined summer upgrade for spirited street driving, then protect your investment with proper alignment, rotations, and tire pressures.
