Continental ContiSportContact 5P
Take control with the Continental ContiSportContact 5P. This max-performance summer tire for sports cars and performance sedans delivers quick steering, confident wet braking, and composed cornering in warm weather. A sticky compound, rigid outer shoulders, and an asymmetric tread help put power down while staying stable at speed. Popular sizes like 255/35R19 and 235/35R19 91Y are available, with select XL, OE markings such as MO or AO, and SSR run-flat options, and it is not intended for winter use, so switch to dedicated winter tires as temperatures drop.
Key features of the ContiSportContact 5P
The ContiSportContact 5P uses an asymmetric tread to balance dry and wet grip. Wide outer shoulder blocks resist squirm under load for crisp turn-in, and a continuous center rib steadies the car in a straight line. Deep circumferential grooves help move water away to cut hydroplaning. The summer compound warms quickly for dependable grip, with many sizes offered in XL load, OE markings like MO or AO, and SSR run-flat variants.
On-road performance in dry and wet
Built for warm weather, the ContiSportContact 5P focuses on precise handling and strong braking. On dry pavement, the rigid shoulders and solid center rib help maintain contact under hard acceleration and cornering. In the wet, wide grooves and lateral channels clear water for steady grip through puddles. Like all summer tires, traction falls off as temperatures near freezing, so plan to switch once cold weather arrives.
Sizes, load/speed ratings, and fitment
Match your ContiSportContact 5P to the size on your door-jamb label and owner manual. The lineup spans popular fitments such as 255/35R19, 235/35R19 91Y, 265/30R20 94Y, and 295/35R21, with many options carrying a Y speed rating and XL load for added stability. Look for OE codes such as MO for Mercedes-Benz or AO for Audi, and consider SSR run-flat versions only if your vehicle and wheels are compatible. When in doubt, confirm load index, speed rating, and any OE code against your vehicle requirements.
Pricing and value
As a premium max-performance summer tire, the ContiSportContact 5P is priced by size, load and speed rating, and specs like OE markings or SSR construction. Larger diameters and XL or run-flat versions typically cost more. In return, you get sharp steering, confident wet grip, and stable high-speed manners. To stretch your investment, add an alignment at install, rotate every 5-7k miles, maintain proper pressure, and avoid hard driving until the tire is warm.
Comparison and shopper guidance
Choosing a performance tire comes down to what you value most, from steering feel and wet grip to comfort, tread life, and price. The ContiSportContact 5P leans toward responsive handling and confidence in warm, wet conditions, with OE-tuned choices and SSR availability in select sizes. If you track the car or want the sharpest responses, newer designs may suit you better. If longer tread life is the priority, alternatives that focus on wear can make sense, so compare current pricing, sizes, and fitment codes before you decide.
ContiSportContact 5P vs SportContact 6
The SportContact 6 is the newer sibling aimed at ultimate responsiveness and high-speed stability. The ContiSportContact 5P delivers a refined balance of grip, steering precision, and comfort, and it may be more accessible on price in certain sizes. Pick the 6 if you want razor-sharp feedback for spirited driving or occasional track days. Choose the 5P if you need confident dry and wet performance with OE-tuned fitments and potential SSR availability, then compare your exact size, rating, and budget.
ContiSportContact 5P vs Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
Both target drivers who want control in warm weather. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S is often praised for its blend of grip and potential tread life. The ContiSportContact 5P emphasizes precise steering and strong wet confidence, and it offers OE-marked and SSR variants that may fit certain vehicles better. Your best pick will depend on size availability, pricing, and whether you need OE codes or run-flat capability.
Installation and care tips
For the best experience, install the ContiSportContact 5P as an axle pair or full set and request a fresh alignment. Allow 300 to 500 miles for break-in as the mold release wears off. Maintain OE-recommended pressure, rotate every 5-7k miles, and watch for uneven shoulder wear. In cold climates, switch to winter tires, and if you use SSR run-flat versions, make sure TPMS works and follow repair guidance after a zero-pressure event.
