Continental Sport Contact 5

The Continental Sport Contact 5 is a Max Performance Summer tire designed to be fitted to Passenger Cars.

Tire review data from 216 tire reviews averaging 71% over 2,531,190 miles driven, and 28 tests with an average result of 2nd.

Dry Grip 86%
Wet Grip 82%
Road Feedback 79%
Handling 76%
Wear 51%
Comfort 73%
Buy again 53%

First On MarketJanuary 2011
Wheel Size17 - 22"
Width195 - 315mm
Profile35 - 65
Rolling ResistanceA - D
Wet GripA - B
Noise (dB)71 - 75
Winter RatingNot Winter Rated

The Sport Contact 5 is ranked 51st of 79 Summer Max Performance tires.

This tire replaced the Continental Sport Contact 3 and this tire has been replaced by the Continental Sport Contact 6.

Tests Included

28

Best Result

1st

Worst Result

8th

Average Result

2nd

Latest Tire Test Results

2020 Gute Fahrt SUV Summer Tire Test
2nd of 8 tires
  • No real weaknesses in the dry or wet handling or braking.
  • Average aquaplaning resistance, average comfort levels.
  • Very good - Continental win more tests than any other brand in Europe, and this was apparent with the excellent SportContact 5 even though it has now been replaced by the newer PremiumContact 6.
View Full Test >>
2017 Auto Bild UHP Tire Test
8th of 9 tires
  • Good resistance to aquaplaning, low rolling resistance, good levels of comfort
  • Average braking, slow steering, low stability on wet roads
  • Average
View Full Test >>
2017 Sport Auto UHP and Track Day Test
4th of 10 tires
  • Excellent in the wet, high resistance to aquaplaning, short braking and good handling in the dry
  • Poor comfort, high noise
  • Recommended
View Full Test >>

2020 Tire Tests

2017 Tire Tests

2016 Tire Tests

2015 Tire Tests

2014 Tire Tests

2013 Tire Tests

2012 Tire Tests

Reports

  • Continental ContiSportContact 5 Launched

    • SizeFuelWetNoise
    17 inch
    205/50 R 17 89 VCA71
    225/50 R 17 98 Y XLCA72
    225/45 R 17 91 YDB71
    225/45 R 17 91 YCB71
    225/45 R 17 91 VCB71
    225/50 R 17 94 YCA71
    225/50 R 17 94 WCB71
    215/45 R 17 91 W XLCA72
    215/45 R 17 91 W XLCA72
    225/45 R 17 91 WDB71
    225/45 R 17 91 WCB71
    225/50 R 17 94 WBB71
    225/50 R 17 94 WDA71
    18 inch
    225/40 R 18 92 Y XLDA72
    225/40 R 18 92 Y XLDB72
    245/40 R 18 93 YCA71
    235/60 R 18 103 VCB71
    245/45 R 18 96 WCA71
    245/45 R 18 96 WCA71
    245/40 R 18 97 Y XLDA72
    235/60R18 103 HCA71
    235/60R18 103 WCA71
    225/40R18 92 Y XLCB72
    245/45 R 18 96 WDA71
    235/60 R 18 103 HCA71
    225/40 R 18 92 W XLCB72
    235/60 R 18 103 VCB71
    245/40 R 18 93 YDA71
    245/45 R 18 96 WDA71
    235/60 R 18 103 VCB71
    245/45 R 18 100 W XLCB72
    255/35 R 18 94 Y XLDB73
    235/60 R 18 103 WCA71
    225/40 R 18 92 Y XLCB72
    245/45 R 18 96 YDA71
    245/40 R 18 97 Y XLCA72
    20 inch
    255/45R20 101 WCA72
    255/45 R 20 101 WCA72
    255/45 R 20 101 WDA72
    View All Sizes and EU Label Scores for the Continental Sport Contact 5 >>

    Questions and Answers for the Continental Sport Contact 5

    Ask a question
    April 22, 2016

    What is difference between Continental SC-5 and SC-5 XL? I drive BMW F10 528i.

    The XL denotes eXtra Load. The Sport Contact 5 XL will be a higher load rating than the non-XL tire and designed to carry extra loads at higher tire pressures.
    May 11, 2016

    With run-flats, not necessary for a spare. If intending to change to non run-flats, does that mean I would require 5 wheels/tires? If so, no location for the spare wheel.

    When switching from runflat tires (in the case of Continental the SSR range) to non runflats, it is a good idea to get a space saver wheel for your boot. An alternative option is a compressor and tire "slime", but these only temporarily fix very small punctures so aren't applicable in every deflation scenario.
    October 21, 2016

    Is it safe to mix Continental Sport Contact 5 M0 and Continental SportContact5 on the front wheels of my Mercedes C220 cdi? Are they compatible?

    While it is safe, it is not advised. Tires should always be matching pairs across the axle, and there could be modifications to the structure or compound of the MO version of the Sport Contact 5.
    October 20, 2016

    Is there a difference between Continental SportContact5 and Sport Contact 5 M0

    The MO version of the Sport Contact 5 has been specifically tweaked for Mercedes.
    July 2, 2022

    Hello! I’ve just bought an audi q3 40 tfsi quattro stronic with black line trim (sport suspension) with 40.000km and 3 years. Front tires are hankook ventus s1 evo3 XL AO (coming from factory-3 years old) and rear tires are continental sport contact 5 XL AO (new). With this configuration, ride is top notch with good roads but if it is in worse condition, suspension is too harsh and road noise is too high. What change do you advice me to do in front tires to have more confort and less noise? Maybe goodyear? Is true thar there is no problem with quattro traction in changing tires of only one axle? Thanks in advance!!!

    You didn't mention what wheel size you have but the SportContact 5 is a reasonably comfortable UHP tire so it's unlikely you'll see a huge improvement in comfort without changing wheel sizes.
    December 22, 2022

    Is the sport contact 5 have good grip for the dessert sand?

    As a summer tire it's unlikely the Sportcontact 5 will offer any meaningful grip on sand.
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    Size Price Range  
    225/40 R18 $137.96 - $194.96 (5 Prices) Compare Prices >>
    225/45 R17 $143.96 - $152.99 (3 Prices) Compare Prices >>
    225/45 R18 $190.96 - $211.99 (2 Prices) Compare Prices >>
    Available in 33 tire sizes - View all.

    Top 3 Continental Sport Contact 5 Reviews

    Given 61% while driving a Ford Focus ST3 2008 (225/40 R18 W) on a combination of roads for 5,000 average miles
    These tires came fitted to my wife's car, so when she needed 2 fronts replaced on MOT I stuck with the same on the rear, imagine my surprise when less than 5000 miles later the fronts were on the legal limits AGAIN!, and now the rears were done too. My wife does not drive like a boy racer either so the tires have not been thrashed. Performance wise I can not fault them but they are high end tires which are not cheap and wear out faster than my bank balance can keep up unfortunately, would not buy again on wear only (sorry).
    Helpful 304 - tire reviewed on April 16, 2016
    Given 53% while driving a Volkswagen Passat 2.0 TDi R Line Estate (235/45 R18) on mostly town for 120,000 easy going miles
    I had these tire on my two cars
    VWPassat B7 1.6D sedan and Passat B8 estate, they performed well on the B7, on the B8 they lasted 11 months or around 12k miles, after had to replace the front set, as worn out
    Helpful 27 - tire reviewed on October 5, 2024
    Given 80% while driving a Skoda Koadiaq RS (235/45 R20) on a combination of roads for 10,000 spirited miles
    Have had them as standard fitment on my Kodiaq vRS. Owned a diesel for 4 years which I traded in for a petrol vRS. On the diesel which is heavier by I guess 65 kgs (at the front), the tires lasted abt 26k kms and were down to 3mm. No track usage but driven spiritedly whenever possible. The grip is great, the breaking and feedback is great in both dry and wet. Inspires a lot of confidence to drive quick. Past the 4mm mark, the wet grip/handling starts getting compromised but can be fun aswell - the tail steps out easier. On the petrol too, the tires have the same characteristics. Have used them on track. Down to 5mm now after 16k kms. I did feel the wear is on higher side but given the other characteristics, its an even trade-off. Cannot comment how it compares to other high performance tires. Will probably try something else like Pilot Sport just to know the difference once the current set wears off.
    Helpful 23 - tire reviewed on October 25, 2024
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    Latest Continental Sport Contact 5 Reviews

    Given 83% while driving a MG ZT 135 CDTi (225/45 R18) on mostly motorways for 22,000 average miles
    I used these for 22k miles on the front of my car in all weathers. Grip is excellent in all conditions. They were noticeably quieter than the Michelin tires they replaced too. The only fault I can find is that they wore out far short of what I would expect and see from other brands. The treadwear rating is very low.
    Helpful 32 - tire reviewed on January 29, 2024
    Given 43% while driving a Kia Motors Optima (235/45 R18) on mostly motorways for 10,000 easy going miles
    These things will go empty your wallet like an addiction to flying a private jet.

    We had pirelli tires, they lasted about 32000miles. These tires which are premium allegedly have lasted 12 months and 11000 miles.

    They are not fitted to a drift car, but a kia diesel estate driven to work and back. Not used like a track car obviously.

    Also they handling is nowhere near comparable to the pirelli

    A genuine disgrace the length of time they have lasted.
    Helpful 36 - tire reviewed on January 23, 2024
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    Given 66% while driving a Suzuki Swift Sport 1.4 ZC33S (195/45 R17) on mostly town for 6,500 spirited miles
    Not the best tires to start on a Suzuki Swift Sport. (Zc33s)

    Continental in this case really disappointed me with these tires on this car.

    I used them mostly on town road, and sometimes on some mountain passes.

    The handling was really good in dry conditions and they were a lot comfortable.
    In wet conditions the tires didn't handle very well, in specific on roundabouts and some turns, they tend to understeer on wet conditions.

    I also had a turn on track (Modena Circuit) and the tires are ready to dump.

    Now I have Toyos Tr1 and they are much better (on 16 rims)

    Totally a NOT buy.
    Specially for the non-economic price.
    Helpful 36 - tire reviewed on November 30, 2023
    Given 89% while driving a Saab Automobile 93 Aero TTid Sportwagon (180) (235/45 R18) on mostly motorways for 20 spirited miles
    Have used Conti Sp Contact 5's since I've had my Saab 10 years, I do mostly motorway miles, but I do drive both A and B roads. I'm a very enthusiastic driver who on occasions will go into a bend faster than you should, I'm still here because the car and tire combination is great especially in the wet, on motorways I pity people who get too close as amount of water displaced by tires is great, I change tires about every 16 months, or 15 - 18000 miles. I feel very confident using these tires, I have used other brands but these give me great confidence in any road/weather combination. I suppose tire choice is like car choice, you either love or hate them.
    Helpful 43 - tire reviewed on November 12, 2023
    Given 76% while driving a Mercedes Benz A210 (205/40 R17) on a combination of roads for 15,000 average miles
    Gives confidence at speed and in the wet. Copes well with urban potholes. One of the best low profile tires for this vehicle in this less common size. Deals well with higher power outputs - the grip only drops off once the tread depth reaches the wear markers. Wears very evenly.
    Helpful 40 - tire reviewed on March 2, 2023
    Given 59% while driving a Mercedes Benz E350 (275/35 R20) on a combination of roads for 12,000 average miles
    Both rear tires changed to Continental Sport Contact 5 in May 2021. Tread under 3mm by September 2022, only 12,000 miles. Premium brand that does not last. Never had a set of tires wear so quickly.
    Helpful 59 - tire reviewed on September 15, 2022
    Given 60% while driving a Audi Q5 (235/55 R19) on mostly town for 13,000 easy going miles
    Tires came factory fitted on Audi Q5 2litre diesel 13000 easy going miles, mainly town with some motorway .I have been pleased with the handling in wet and dry conditions, comfort and road noise good. Wear has been terrible especially on the front. Replacing now with mitchellin latitude sport 3 and hoping these have better wear!!
    Helpful 63 - tire reviewed on July 5, 2022
    Given 41% while driving a Peugeot 3008 (235/50 R19) on a combination of roads for 20,000 average miles
    Tires arrived with the Car from the factory. lasted 2 years and 20000miles , and not in a great condition at all.. wear condition is very high , and the tire became dry after a year and a half. almost all of them are dry (even thaw i park in the shade) and are not grippy at all.
    Helpful 49 - tire reviewed on June 8, 2022
    Mercedes Benz C63 AMG (235/40 R17) on a combination of roads for 6,000 spirited miles
    Grip in dry is good. At 4mm onwards, wet grip deteriorates badly, it's dangerous, you would not go 100km/h, only 80km/h to be safe, even then, you'll prefer not to use them. Wears quickly compared to other tires like Potenza RE002 & Re003, Pilot Sport 3 & 4, Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3. They are soft, and stone sticks to tires, even in basement carpark where no tires has ever picked up anything, this tire will stick any stone to it, as a result, i get lots of stones being flicked up and causing lots of paint chips under rear bumper, side skirt, even rear arch from front tires flicking stone down the side of the car. Soft but not as much grip as Pilot Sport 4 which aren't soft like this and last longer. These tires are also not comfortable at all, at 4mm and below, it's downright harsh, you feel like you're in a racecar, running over cateyes, you think you run over a sharp stone that is 5x higher.
    Helpful 57 - tire reviewed on April 6, 2022
    Given 76% while driving a Mercedes Benz 190 2.3 16 (255/50 R17) on mostly town for 2 spirited miles
    Average wet grip Performs well on dry roads Noise level below Average Handling good Brake distance on dry roads good Brake distance on wet roads Average
    Helpful 58 - tire reviewed on March 17, 2022
    Given 70% while driving a Opel Insignia B (235/50 R18) on mostly country roads for 15 average miles
    good tires but at 27,000 kilometres they will be done by 30,000. I don't believe these tires are particularly well suited to NZ roads, probably better on euro roads? with AWD you certainly get the grip and sure-footedness, but this does come at the price of tire wear. these are a summer tire, I might look for an all season tire next. just on here doing my research before I decide what I want instead of these
    Helpful 46 - tire reviewed on October 11, 2021
    Given 79% while driving a BMW BMW X1 (225/50 R17) on a combination of roads for 21,700 spirited miles
    I fitted these tires after a set of Yokohamas (great btw) to have a sporty tire that was also runflat and long lasting. They are a bit noisy, but generally all RFT tires are. Much more comfortable than the P7 Cinturato that came with the car. The tires were very good even at the end of their life, they dropped performance on the last 1000km at the rear especially (they were done). I only experienced a slight issue when hitting water with only one of the tire in a bend, the car unsettled and the traction control got confused for a second, but generally were very good on wet and acquaplaning so, maybe was a combination of tire-car-surface-speed. I would recommend them for 4WD cars such as mine, very progressive even when you push them.
    Helpful 48 - tire reviewed on September 9, 2021