The Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 and Continental WinterContact TS 870 P bring the heat in the SUV winter tire segment, both proudly carrying the 3-peak mountain snowflake certification. The UltraGrip Performance 3, launched in 2023, takes aim at winter dominance, while the TS 870 P, introduced in 2021, has already earned a reputation as a trusted performer. It’s a clash of titans: can Goodyear’s latest technology outmatch Continental’s proven expertise? Buckle up as we explore which tire truly delivers in the snow, wet, and beyond!
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Results: Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 vs Continental WinterContact TS 870 P
Results below were taken from 2024 ADAC 17″ winter tire test with a total of 16 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 vs Continental WinterContact TS 870 P based on the relevant performance category. The Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 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 215/55 R17 which is a common tire size for Honda HR-V & Audi SQ2. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a Volkswagen T-Roc.
Wet
In wet braking, the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P stops 1 meter earlier at 34.6 meters compared to the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3, which takes 35.6 meters to stop. However, in straight-line aquaplaning, the UltraGrip Performance 3 holds an edge with a higher slipping speed of 77.4 km/h, outperforming the TS 870 P at 75.8 km/h.
TS 870 P :
- +3% in wet braking
- -2% in straight aquaplaning
Snow
In snow braking, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 stops 0.4 meters earlier at 9.7 meters compared to the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P, which takes 10.1 meters to stop. For snow traction, the UltraGrip Performance 3 delivers better pulling force at 234 N, outperforming the TS 870 P’s 222 N.
TS 870 P :
- -4% in snow braking
- -5% in snow traction
Ice
In ice braking, the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P stops 1 meter earlier at 16.6 meters compared to the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3, which takes 17.6 meters to stop.
TS 870 P :
- +6% in ice braking
Mileage & Abrasion
When it comes to mileage, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 has a huge advantage, lasting 14,200 km longer with a wear life of 57,500 km compared to the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P, which wears out at 43,300 km. The UltraGrip Performance 3 also shows significantly better abrasion resistance, losing only 55 mg/km/t, while the TS 870 P loses 64 mg/km/t, highlighting Goodyear’s superior durability.
TS 870 P :
- -25% in mileage
- -14% in abrasion
Dry
In dry braking, both the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 and the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P deliver identical performance, stopping at exactly 42.9 meters.
TS 870 P :
- 0% in dry braking
Price
For the 215/55R17 size, the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P is slightly cheaper at €157, making it 1% more affordable than the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3, priced at €159.
Tire size: 215/55R17
- UltraGrip Performance 3 : € 159
- WinterContact TS 870 P : € 157
Difference: -1% more cheaper for TS 870 P
Expert Conclusion
As a tire expert, both tires showcase their strengths in key areas. The Continental WinterContact TS 870 P excels in wet and ice braking, stopping earlier and providing superior safety in those conditions. Meanwhile, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 performs better in snow braking, snow traction, and aquaplaning resistance, offering well-rounded winter capabilities.
However, the real game-changer is Goodyear’s significantly better mileage, lasting 14,200 km longer with lower abrasion. This makes the UltraGrip Performance 3 the better overall choice for drivers seeking longevity and value without compromising performance.
Dr Edwin Pang