Budget vs Premium Tires: Are Expensive Tires Worth It?

The Emergence of Budget Tires and the Role of China

Budget vs Premium Tires: The tire market has evolved considerably over the past few decades, offering a wide range of options for consumers with different needs and budgets. While many drivers opt for premium tires from well-known brands like Michelin, Continental, or Goodyear, an increasing number of consumers are turning to budget tires as a more affordable alternative.

Budget tires, as the name implies, are designed to be cost-effective. These tires typically come at a significantly lower price point compared to premium tires. They are particularly attractive to drivers who are looking for a temporary solution or who don’t have the means or desire to invest in more expensive tires. While budget tires may not offer the same level of performance or durability as their premium counterparts, they are still subject to strict safety standards and can be a viable option for many drivers.

China plays a significant role in the production of budget tires. Over the past few years, Chinese tire manufacturers have gained a strong foothold in the global market, primarily due to their ability to produce tires at a lower cost. These cost savings are achieved through a combination of factors, including lower labor and material costs, as well as economies of scale. As a result, many budget tires available in the market today are manufactured in China or other countries where production costs are lower.

It’s worth noting that the quality of budget tires can vary widely. Some Chinese manufacturers have made substantial investments in research and development, improving the quality of their products. Others may cut corners to reduce costs, which can impact the performance and durability of the tires. It is essential for consumers to do their research and read reviews before purchasing budget tires, regardless of their country of origin.

Double-Coin is one such Chinese brand that has made a name for itself in the budget tire market. The company offers a range of tires for various applications, including passenger cars, trucks, and industrial vehicles. The Double-Coin DC99 is one of the company’s popular budget tire models for passenger cars. While it may not have the same features as a premium tire like the Continental PremiumContact 7, it is still worth considering for drivers who are looking for an affordable option.

In conclusion, budget tires, including those from China, have become increasingly popular among consumers looking for a more affordable option. While they may not offer the same level of performance or durability as premium tires, they are still a viable choice for many drivers. However, it is essential to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase. In the following chapters, we will take a closer look at the specific features and performance of the Continental PremiumContact 7 and Double-Coin DC99 to help you make an informed decision.

Factors That Differentiate Budget Tires From Premium Tires

As we delve deeper into the world of tires, it is essential to understand the key factors that set premium and budget tires apart. This chapter explores those differences, focusing on aspects such as materials, technology, performance, and longevity.

1. Materials and Construction Premium tires often use advanced materials and sophisticated construction techniques to improve performance and durability. For example, high-quality rubber compounds with special additives may provide enhanced grip, especially in wet conditions. These tires also frequently incorporate features such as reinforced sidewalls for better stability and cornering performance. In contrast, budget tires, including the Double-Coin DC99, might use less advanced materials and simpler construction methods. These cost-saving measures can affect the overall quality and performance of the tire.
   
2. Technology and Innovation Premium brands like Continental invest heavily in research and development to create innovative tire technologies. These advancements can improve various aspects of the tire, such as traction, handling, and fuel efficiency. The Continental PremiumContact 7, for instance, incorporates innovative tread patterns and rubber compounds to enhance grip and stability. Budget tires may not benefit from the same level of technological innovation due to cost constraints. As a result, they might not offer the same level of performance or safety features as premium tires.
   
3. Performance Premium tires are generally designed to deliver superior performance across various conditions, including wet, dry, and snowy roads. Their advanced materials and technology result in better handling, cornering, and braking performance. Premium tires can also offer a quieter and more comfortable ride. Budget tires, on the other hand, might not provide the same level of performance. While they still meet safety standards, they may not offer the same degree of precision and control as premium tires.
   
4. Longevity and Durability Premium tires typically last longer than budget tires, thanks to their high-quality materials and construction. Their advanced rubber compounds can provide better resistance to wear and tear, extending the lifespan of the tire. Moreover, premium tires often come with longer warranties, reflecting the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability. Budget tires, like the Double-Coin DC99, may have a shorter lifespan due to the use of less advanced materials and construction methods. They may also come with shorter warranties, reflecting the manufacturer’s expectations regarding their durability.
   
5. Price The most apparent difference between budget and premium tires is the price. Premium tires, with their advanced technology and materials, come at a higher cost. Budget tires, like those from Double-Coin, offer a more affordable alternative, but they may not provide the same level of performance, longevity, or features.

In conclusion, several factors differentiate budget and premium tires, including materials, technology, performance, longevity, and price. While premium tires like the Continental PremiumContact 7 offer superior performance and durability, budget tires like the Double-Coin DC99 can be an attractive option for those on a tight budget. In the next chapters, we will explore the specific features and performance of these two tire models in greater detail.

Budget vs Premium Tires : Continental PremiumContact 7 vs Double Coin DC99

Results below were taken from 8 Cheap Tyres VS 1 Premium Tyre test with a total of 9 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Continental PremiumContact 7 vs Double Coin DC99 based on the relevant performance category. The Continental PremiumContact 7 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.

Since we are talking about summer segment, the full range of wet & dry test was tested. The tire size of interest is a 205/55 R16 which is a common tire size for Volkswagen Golf (2018) and the Toyota Corolla Altis (2018). You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a standard VW Golf. The testing vehicle is a Volkswagen Golf.

Wet

Wet performance is a critical aspect to consider when choosing tires, as it significantly impacts safety and handling in rain and other wet conditions. In this chapter, we will compare the wet performance of the Continental PremiumContact 7 and the Double Coin DC99 using the provided test results.

• Wet braking is a key indicator of a tire’s performance in wet conditions. The Continental PremiumContact 7 has a wet braking distance of 31.58 meters, which is relatively short and suggests strong braking performance on wet surfaces. On the other hand, the Double Coin DC99 has a wet braking distance of 46.04 meters, which is considerably longer than the PremiumContact 7 and indicates less effective braking on wet surfaces.

• Wet handling tests assess how well a tire can navigate a wet track based on the lap time, taking into account factors like grip, stability, and steering response. The Continental PremiumContact 7 completed the wet handling test in 84.85 seconds, showing good grip and handling on wet surfaces. Meanwhile, the Double Coin DC99 took 96.27 seconds to complete the wet handling test, indicating a slower performance than the PremiumContact 7 and suggesting less effective handling on wet surfaces.

• Subjective wet handling involves experienced drivers evaluating the tire’s performance based on their experience while driving on a wet track. The Continental PremiumContact 7 scored a perfect 10 out of 10 points, indicating that drivers feel confident and secure while driving on wet surfaces with these tires. In contrast, the Double Coin DC99 scored only 5 out of 10 points, suggesting that drivers might not feel as confident when using these tires on wet surfaces.

• The wet circle test measures a tire’s lateral grip on a wet surface by determining the time it takes to complete a lap around a wet circular track. The Continental PremiumContact 7 completed the wet circle in 11.5 seconds, showcasing good lateral grip on wet surfaces. The Double Coin DC99 took longer, at 12.8 seconds, to complete the wet circle, indicating less lateral grip on wet surfaces compared to the PremiumContact 7.

• Straight aquaplaning tests measure the speed at which a tire begins to lose contact with the road due to water on the surface, leading to a loss of control. The Continental PremiumContact 7 has a slipping speed of 74.91 km/h, indicating better resistance to aquaplaning. The Double Coin DC99 has a slipping speed of 64.55 km/h, suggesting less resistance to aquaplaning compared to the PremiumContact 7.

• The curved aquaplaning test assesses the maximum centripetal acceleration a tire can handle on a wet, curved track before losing grip. The Continental PremiumContact 7 achieved a maximum centripetal acceleration of 3.3 m/sec², indicating good grip and stability on wet curves. In comparison, the Double Coin DC99 achieved a maximum centripetal acceleration of 2.3 m/sec², indicating less grip and stability on wet curves compared to the PremiumContact 7.

In conclusion, the Continental PremiumContact 7 outperforms the Double Coin DC99 in all wet performance tests, including wet braking, handling, and aquaplaning resistance. These results suggest that the PremiumContact 7 offers better safety, grip, and stability on wet surfaces compared to the DC99. Therefore, drivers looking for superior wet performance might consider investing in the Continental PremiumContact 7.

DC99:

• -31% in wet braking
• -12% in wet handling (lap time)
• -25% in wet handling (subjective)
• -10% in wet circle
• -14% in straight aquaplaning
• -30% in curved aquaplaning

Dry

Dry performance is another crucial consideration when evaluating tires, as it affects a vehicle’s handling, braking, and overall driving experience under normal weather conditions. In this chapter, we will compare the dry performance of the Continental PremiumContact 7 and the Double Coin DC99 based on the provided test results.

• In the dry braking test, the Continental PremiumContact 7 has a braking distance of 35.27 meters, which is relatively short and suggests effective braking performance on dry surfaces. On the other hand, the Double Coin DC99 has a braking distance of 39.62 meters, which is longer than the PremiumContact 7 and indicates less effective braking on dry surfaces.

• The dry handling test evaluates a tire’s ability to navigate a dry track based on lap time, considering factors like grip, stability, and steering response. The Continental PremiumContact 7 completed the dry handling test in 51.73 seconds, showcasing good grip and handling on dry surfaces. In comparison, the Double Coin DC99 took slightly longer at 53.39 seconds to complete the dry handling test, indicating a slower performance and suggesting less effective handling on dry surfaces.

• Subjective dry handling involves experienced drivers providing their evaluations of a tire’s performance based on their experience driving on a dry track. The Continental PremiumContact 7 scored a perfect 10 out of 10 points, indicating that drivers feel confident and secure while driving on dry surfaces with these tires. In contrast, the Double Coin DC99 scored only 3 out of 10 points, suggesting that drivers might not feel as confident or secure when using these tires on dry surfaces.

In conclusion, the Continental PremiumContact 7 outperforms the Double Coin DC99 in all dry performance tests, including dry braking, handling, and subjective evaluations. These results suggest that the PremiumContact 7 offers better safety, grip, and stability on dry surfaces compared to the DC99. Drivers looking for superior dry performance might consider investing in the Continental PremiumContact 7.

DC99:

• -11% in dry braking
• -3% in dry handling (lap time)
• -35% in dry handling (subjective)

Rolling Resistance

Rolling resistance is an essential factor to consider when evaluating tires, as it directly affects a vehicle’s fuel efficiency and overall energy consumption. Lower rolling resistance can contribute to better fuel economy, while higher rolling resistance can lead to increased fuel consumption. In this chapter, we will compare the rolling resistance of the Continental PremiumContact 7 and the Double Coin DC99 based on the provided test results.

The rolling resistance test measures the force required to keep a tire rolling at a constant speed. The results are typically presented in terms of Kilo Newton per Newton (kN/N), with lower values indicating better performance. The Continental PremiumContact 7 has a rolling resistance of 8.38 kN/N, indicating a lower resistance level and suggesting better fuel efficiency compared to tires with higher rolling resistance values. On the other hand, the Double Coin DC99 has a rolling resistance of 8.63 kN/N, which is slightly higher than the PremiumContact 7. This suggests that the DC99 might contribute to marginally increased fuel consumption compared to the PremiumContact 7.

In conclusion, the Continental PremiumContact 7 outperforms the Double Coin DC99 in terms of rolling resistance, with a difference of 0.25 kg/t. While both tires have relatively similar rolling resistance values, the PremiumContact 7 offers slightly better fuel efficiency due to its lower rolling resistance. Drivers looking for better fuel economy and overall energy efficiency might consider investing in the Continental PremiumContact 7.

DC99:

• -3% in rolling resistance

Comfort & Noise

NVH, or Noise, Vibration, and Harshness, is a critical factor when evaluating tires. It influences the overall driving experience and comfort levels of the vehicle’s occupants. In this chapter, we will compare the NVH performance of the Continental PremiumContact 7 and the Double Coin DC99 based on the provided test results.

• The subjective comfort test involves experienced drivers assessing the tire’s performance based on their overall driving experience and comfort levels. The Continental PremiumContact 7 scored 9.2 out of 10 points, indicating a high level of comfort and a smooth driving experience. The Double Coin DC99 scored slightly lower at 9 out of 10 points, still showcasing a comfortable driving experience, but slightly less than the PremiumContact 7.

• The exterior noise test measures the amount of noise a tire generates while in motion. The Continental PremiumContact 7 has a noise level of 72 dB, which falls within the average range for tire noise. In contrast, the Double Coin DC99 has a noise level of 70.2 dB, which is lower than the PremiumContact 7 by a significant 1.8 dB. This indicates a quieter ride and a notable improvement in noise reduction compared to the PremiumContact 7.

In conclusion, while both tires offer a comfortable driving experience, the Double Coin DC99 manages to outperform the Continental PremiumContact 7 in terms of noise reduction, with a significant difference of 1.8 dB. This suggests that the DC99 offers a quieter ride compared to the PremiumContact 7, which can contribute to a more pleasant driving experience. Drivers looking for a comfortable and quiet tire might consider the Double Coin DC99 as a viable option.

DC99:

• -1% in comfort
• +3% in noise (-1.8 dB)

Price

Price is an important consideration when choosing tires, especially for drivers on a budget or those looking for good value for their money. In this chapter, we will compare the prices of the Continental PremiumContact 7 and the Double Coin DC99 for the specific tire size of 205/55 R16.

The Continental PremiumContact 7 is priced at €86 per tire, placing it in the mid to upper range of tire prices. This higher price reflects the tire’s premium features, such as enhanced performance, comfort, and safety. On the other hand, the Double Coin DC99 is priced at a more affordable €46 per tire, nearly half the cost of the PremiumContact 7. This budget-friendly price is one of the key advantages of the DC99 and makes it an attractive option for drivers looking for economical tire choices.

Tire size: 205/55 R16

• PremiumContact 7: € 86

• DC99: € 46

Difference: -87% more cheaper for DC99

The price difference between the two tires is substantial, with the DC99 being 87% cheaper than the PremiumContact 7. This significant price gap makes the DC99 a clear winner in the budget segment.

Summary

In this article, we explored the differences between the premium Continental PremiumContact 7 and the budget-friendly Double Coin DC99 tires, examining their performance, comfort, and price. While the Continental PremiumContact 7 outperforms the Double Coin DC99 in wet and dry conditions, the DC99 offers a quieter ride due to its lower noise level. Nevertheless, the PremiumContact 7 has slightly better rolling resistance, which can lead to improved fuel efficiency. Price-wise, the Double Coin DC99 is significantly cheaper, being 87% less expensive than the PremiumContact 7. While this may seem attractive, it’s essential to remember that the overall performance of the DC99 is not on par with the PremiumContact 7.

Considering the performance discrepancies and the potential risks associated with choosing budget tires, it is recommended not to opt for budget options like the Double Coin DC99. The safety and performance of premium tires like the Continental PremiumContact 7 far outweigh the initial cost savings of budget tires.

In conclusion, although the Double Coin DC99 may be an affordable option, it is crucial to prioritize safety, performance, and comfort when choosing tires. Investing in premium tires like the Continental PremiumContact 7 is recommended for a safer and more satisfying driving experience.