🔥 Hankook Ventus RS4 vs Nankang AR-1 — Which Semi-Slick Tyre Is Right for Your Track Setup?

By Autosport Tyreworld Magill – Performance & Motorsport Tyre Experts

When discussing high-performance semi-slick tyres, two popular options frequently come up among track enthusiasts and time-attack drivers: the Hankook Ventus RS4 and the Nankang AR-1.

Both offer exceptional dry grip and track-focused capability, but they are engineered with different strengths, behaviours, and performance priorities.

This SEO-focused comparison breaks down everything you need to know before choosing RS4 or AR-1.

🚀 1. Quick Overview: RS4 vs AR-1

🚀 2. Dry Grip & Cornering Performance

Nankang AR-1 — Maximum Dry Grip

The AR-1 is designed for raw performance:

• Extremely high peak grip

• Very stiff sidewalls

• Instant steering response

• Built for Time Attack and aggressive driving

Hankook RS4 — High Grip but More Predictable

The RS4 offers:

• Strong dry traction

• Very stable cornering

• Progressive, forgiving behaviour

• Surprisingly high limits for a 200TW tyre

Verdict:
👉 Fastest lap potential → AR-1
👉 Most predictable grip curve → RS4

🚀 3. Heat Behaviour & Consistency

RS4 – Class-Leading Heat Tolerance

• Amazing resistance to heat fade

• Perfect for long 15–30 min track sessions

• Popular for endurance-style driving

• Maintains consistent lap times

AR-1 – High Grip, Higher Heat Load

• Designed for intense sessions

• Strong heat capability, but soft compound works hard

• Will fade slightly after sustained abuse

• Best for short, intense stints (5–10 mins)

Verdict:
👉 Longer sessions → RS4
👉 Short explosive laps → AR-1

🚀 4. Wear & Lifespan

RS4 — Best Longevity in Semi-Slick Category

• Very durable compound

• Long lifespan even with repeated track use

• Lower long-term cost

AR-1 — Faster Wear = Higher Grip

• Soft, sticky compound

• Wears faster, especially on heavier cars

• Not ideal for daily commuting

Verdict:
👉 Best lifespan → RS4
👉 Best performance, but shorter life → AR-1

🚀 5. Wet Performance

RS4

✔ More tread grooves
✔ Acceptable light wet grip
✔ Safer for street driving

AR-1

⚠ Limited wet traction
⚠ Best kept for dry weather
⚠ High hydroplaning risk

Verdict:
👉 If rain is possible → choose RS4

🚀 6. Comfort, Noise & Street Use

RS4

• Harder sidewall = firmer ride

• Acceptable noise level for semi-slick

• Can be used daily

AR-1

• Loud

• Harsh

• Pure track behaviour

• Not suitable for street use

Verdict:
👉 Daily friendliness → RS4

🚀 7. Price & Value

RS4

💲 Mid-range price
🔥 Exceptional lifespan → best long-term value

AR-1

💲 Slightly higher price
🔥 Massive performance → best value for fast lap times

🔥 8. Which Should You Choose? (Quick Guide)

✔ Choose Hankook Ventus RS4 if you want:

• Long track sessions

• Resistant to heat fade

• Long lifespan

• Predictable handling

• Street + track dual use

• Best cost per kilometre

✔ Choose Nankang AR-1 if you want:

• Maximum dry grip

• Fastest possible lap times

• Stiff, sharp performance feel

• Short Time Attack sessions

• Pure track focus

• A tyre close to motorsport slick performance

🔥 9. Final Verdict

RS4 = Best all-round track tyre for endurance, longevity, and mixed-use driving.
AR-1 = Best pure performance tyre for Time Attack and maximum dry grip.

Both are excellent, but they serve different driving styles.

🔥 10. Buy RS4 & AR-1 at Autosport Tyreworld

At Autosport Tyreworld Magill, we supply both Hankook RS4 and Nankang AR-1 with full installation, balancing, and performance advice.

We offer:
✅ Professional performance alignments
✅ Street + track setup consultation
✅ Wheel & tyre packages
✅ Fitment guidance for WRX, GTI, Type R, GR86, Skyline, S15, Mustang & more

📍 647 Magill Road, Magill SA 5072
📞 0452 641 023
🌐 autostw.com.au

🔥 11. SEO FAQ (Boost Google Ranking)

Is Nankang AR-1 faster than the Hankook RS4?

Generally yes — AR-1 provides higher peak dry grip.

Which tyre lasts longer?

RS4, by a large margin.

Are both tyres suitable for wet driving?

RS4 is acceptable; AR-1 is not recommended in heavy rain.

Which tyre is better for daily driving?

RS4, due to better comfort and lower noise.

Which warms up faster?

AR-1 warms up very quickly, ideal for short competitive runs.