🔥 Hankook Ventus RS4 vs Yokohama Advan A052 — The Ultimate Semi-Slick Comparison for Track Enthusiasts
By Autosport Tyreworld Magill – Adelaide’s Motorsport Tyre Specialists
For drivers who demand extreme grip and track-ready performance, two tyres often dominate the discussion: the Hankook Ventus RS4 and the Yokohama Advan A052.
Both are highly respected in the enthusiast community, but they are engineered for very different strengths. This SEO-optimised comparison breaks down everything you need to know to pick the right tyre for your vehicle.
🚀 1. Quick Overview: RS4 vs A052
| Category | Hankook Ventus RS4 | Yokohama Advan A052 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | 200TW Semi-Slick | 200TW Extreme Performance Track Tyre |
| Grip Level | High | Very High |
| Heat Resistance | Exceptional | Good (but can overheat) |
| Longevity | Excellent | Short–Medium |
| Track Use | Long sessions | Sprint / Time Attack |
| Street Use | Acceptable | Limited |
| Wet Grip | Moderate | Weak–Moderate |
| Price | Mid | Higher |
🚀 2. Dry Grip & Cornering Performance
A052 — One of the Highest-Grip 200TW Tyres
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Massive dry traction
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Extremely fast warm-up
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Sharp cornering bite
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Popular in Time Attack & sprint racing
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Often 0.5–1.5 seconds a lap faster than RS4 (depending on setup)
RS4 — Less Peak Grip but More Consistency
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Strong and predictable dry performance
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More controlled breakaway at the limit
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Excellent stability during high-speed cornering
Verdict:
👉 Maximum peak grip → A052
👉 More predictable, stable grip → RS4
🚀 3. Heat Resistance & Track Consistency
RS4 — The Heat Fade Champion
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Almost no heat fade
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Handles 15–30 minute sessions easily
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Ideal for heavier cars: WRX, GTI, BMW M cars, Mustang
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Perfect for endurance-style track driving
A052 — Fast but Runs Hot
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Delivers huge grip early
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Works best in 2–6 lap attack stints
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Can overheat on longer sessions
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Grip drops when overheated
Verdict:
👉 Long sessions → RS4
👉 Short aggressive sessions → A052
🚀 4. Wear & Lifespan
RS4
✔ Extremely long-lasting
✔ Best cost-per-kilometre for semi-slicks
✔ Excellent for frequent track drivers
A052
⚠ Wears quickly
⚠ Soft compound trades life for performance
⚠ Not recommended for daily street use
Verdict:
👉 Longest life → RS4
👉 Performance-first → A052
🚀 5. Wet Performance
RS4
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Moderate wet capability
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Safe enough for street use
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Not ideal in heavy rain
A052
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Very limited wet performance
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Risk of hydroplaning
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Meant for dry grip, not rain
Verdict:
👉 If rain is possible → RS4 wins
🚀 6. Comfort, Noise & Daily Driving
RS4
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Firmer ride but manageable
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Acceptable noise for semi-slick
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Suitable for occasional daily use
A052
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Loud
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Harsh
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Not ideal for daily commuting
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Designed for performance only
Verdict:
👉 More street-friendly → RS4
🚀 7. Price & Value
RS4
💲 Mid price
🔥 Best long-term value
🔥 Best endurance performance
A052
💲 More expensive
🔥 Best for outright speed
🔥 Perfect for competition drivers
🔥 8. Which Should You Choose? (Quick Guide)
✔ Choose Hankook Ventus RS4 if you want:
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Long, consistent track sessions
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Best heat resistance in its class
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Predictable handling
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Extremely long tyre life
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Street + track flexibility
✔ Choose Yokohama A052 if you want:
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The fastest possible lap times
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Maximum dry grip
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Ultra-quick warm-up
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Short Time Attack sessions
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Pure track performance
🔥 9. Final Verdict
RS4 = Best all-round semi-slick for endurance, consistency and long-term value
A052 = Best for outright speed, short sessions and serious track competition
Both tyres excel — your choice depends on whether you value longevity (RS4) or peak performance (A052).
🔥 10. Buy RS4 & A052 at Autosport Tyreworld Magill
At Autosport Tyreworld Magill, we supply both the Hankook RS4 and the Yokohama A052 with professional fitting and track-focused advice.
We offer:
✅ Performance tyre installation
✅ Track & street alignment
✅ Wheel + tyre packages
✅ Expert fitment for WRX, GR86, GTI, Type R, Skyline, Mustang & more
📍 647 Magill Road, Magill SA 5072
📞 0452 641 023
🌐 autostw.com.au
🔥 11. FAQ
Is Yokohama A052 faster than RS4?
Yes — A052 usually delivers faster lap times.
Does RS4 last longer?
Absolutely. RS4 has one of the best lifespans among semi-slick tyres.
Are both tyres suitable for wet conditions?
RS4 is acceptable; A052 is not recommended for heavy rain.
Which tyre is better for daily use?
RS4 is more suitable.
Which tyre handles heat better?
RS4 by a large margin.