Continental WinterContact TS 870 vs Nokian Snowproof 2: The Continental WinterContact TS 870, launched in 2021, faces off against the Nokian Snowproof 2, which hit the market in 2023. This matchup pits the well-established Continental product, known for its consistent success in the Middle European winter segment, against Nokian, a true winter specialist renowned for its expertise in cold conditions. Will the newcomer from Nokian be able to challenge the dominance of the TS 870 in this ultimate winter battle? Let’s find out!
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Results: Continental WinterContact TS 870 vs Nokian Snowproof 2
Results below were taken from 2024 ADAC winter tire test with a total of 12 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Continental WinterContact TS 870 vs Nokian Snowproof 2 based on the relevant performance category. The Continental WinterContact TS 870 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Since we are talking about winter segment with both tires having the converted 3 peak mountain logo, the snow & ice performance was tested. The tire size of interest is a 205/55 R16 which is a common tire size for Toyota Corolla & Volkswagen Jetta. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a Volkswagen Golf.
Wet
In wet braking, the Continental WinterContact TS 870 stopped in 35.1 meters, while the Nokian Snowproof 2 took 36.4 meters, showing a 1.3-meter difference in favor of Continental. In straight-line aquaplaning, the TS 870 maintained stability at 84 km/h, outperforming the Snowproof 2, which managed 80.7 km/h—a difference of 3.3 km/h. Continental shows its strength in wet conditions.
Snowproof 2 :
- -4% in wet braking
- -4% in straight aquaplaning
Snow
In snow braking, the Continental WinterContact TS 870 stopped in 9.9 meters, while the Nokian Snowproof 2 needed 10.2 meters, giving Continental a 0.3-meter advantage. For snow traction, the TS 870 provided a pulling force of 229 N, compared to 222 N from the Snowproof 2, showing a difference of 7 N in favor of Continental. Snow advantage goes to the TS 870.
Snowproof 2 :
- -3% in snow braking
- -3% in snow traction
Ice
In ice braking, the Continental WinterContact TS 870 stopped in 18.3 meters, while the Nokian Snowproof 2 took 21.6 meters, showing a significant 3.3-meter advantage for Continental.
Snowproof 2 :
- -15% in ice braking
Mileage & Abrasion
In terms of mileage, the Continental WinterContact TS 870 offered a longer wear of 43,800 km compared to the Nokian Snowproof 2, which lasted 38,500 km—a difference of 5,300 km in favor of Continental. For abrasion, the TS 870 showed lower wear at 59 mg/km/t, while the Snowproof 2 had a higher rate of 62 mg/km/t. This demonstrates Continental’s higher level of target conflict management between wet braking and mileage, showcasing a significant technological leap.
Snowproof 2 :
- -12% in mileage
- -5% in abrasion
Dry
In dry braking, the Nokian Snowproof 2 stopped in 44.1 meters, while the Continental WinterContact TS 870 needed 44.7 meters, showing a 0.6-meter advantage for Nokian.
Snowproof 2 :
- +1% in dry braking
Noise
The Continental WinterContact TS 870 produced 71.1 dB of noise, while the Nokian Snowproof 2 generated 72.5 dB, resulting in a 1.4 dB difference. The difference is quite huge, giving Continental a noticeable advantage in noise reduction.
Snowproof 2 :
- -2% in exterior noise (-1.4 dB)
Fuel Consumption
Both the Continental WinterContact TS 870 and Nokian Snowproof 2 had identical fuel consumption at 5.1 l/100km, showing no difference in efficiency between the two tires.
Snowproof 2 :
- 0% in fuel consumption
Price
The Continental WinterContact TS 870 costs €105, while the Nokian Snowproof 2 is priced at €89, making the Snowproof 2 18% cheaper.
Tire size: 205/55R16
- WinterContact TS 870 : € 105
- Snowproof 2 : € 89
Difference: -18% more cheaper for Snowproof 2
Expert Conclusion
From my perspective as a tire expert, it’s clear that the Continental WinterContact TS 870 demonstrates dominance across multiple key performance areas—particularly in wet, snow, and ice. Its superior mileage, lower noise levels, and advanced target conflict management further solidify its position as a leading choice for winter driving. While Nokian offers some advantages, the TS 870’s overall performance showcases Continental’s technological leap and mastery in the winter tire segment.
Dr Edwin Pang