Michelin Alpin 6 vs Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3: The Michelin Alpin 6, launched in 2018, is set to be replaced by the Alpin 7 in 2024, but before that, it’s time for one last test against a worthy contender. Enter the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3, a newcomer launched in 2023 with many years left in its tank. It’s a classic showdown between two middle European winter titans—let’s see which one comes out on top!
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Results: Michelin Alpin 6 vs Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3
Results below were taken from 2024 ADAC winter tire test with a total of 12 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin Alpin 6 vs Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 based on the relevant performance category. The Michelin Alpin 6 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 Michelin Alpin 6 and Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 are nearly identical, with just a 0.1-meter difference, favoring the Alpin 6 at 35.4 meters compared to 35.5 meters. However, in straight-line aquaplaning, there’s a significant difference: the UltraGrip Performance 3 reaches 83.1 km/h, outperforming the Alpin 6’s 77.2 km/h by 5.9 km/h, indicating much better aquaplaning resistance.
UltraGrip Performance 3:
- ~0% in wet braking
- +8% in straight aquaplaning
Snow
In snow braking, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 stops slightly faster, taking 10.1 meters compared to the Michelin Alpin 6’s 10.3 meters, giving a 0.2-meter advantage. However, in snow traction, the Michelin Alpin 6 shows superior pulling force at 236 N, outperforming the UltraGrip Performance 3, which measures 231 N.
UltraGrip Performance 3:
- +2% in snow braking
- -2% in snow traction
Ice
In ice braking, the Michelin Alpin 6 stops in 20.8 meters, slightly outperforming the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3, which takes 21.2 meters—a 0.4-meter advantage for the Alpin 6.
UltraGrip Performance 3:
- -2% in ice braking
Mileage & Abrasion
In terms of mileage, the Michelin Alpin 6 lasts longer, with a lifespan of 53,200 km compared to 49,100 km for the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3, giving it a 4,100 km advantage. Regarding abrasion, the Michelin has a lower rate at 48 mg/km/t, while the Goodyear is at 57 mg/km/t, indicating that the Michelin wears down more slowly.
UltraGrip Performance 3:
- -8% in mileage
- -16% in abrasion
Dry
In dry braking, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 stops in 44.2 meters, outperforming the Michelin Alpin 6, which takes 45.5 meters—an advantage of 1.3 meters for the Goodyear.
UltraGrip Performance 3:
- +3% in dry braking
Noise
In terms of exterior noise, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 is slightly quieter at 71.2 dB compared to the Michelin Alpin 6’s 71.9 dB, giving a 0.7 dB noise advantage to the Goodyear.
UltraGrip Performance 3:
- +1% in exterior noise (-0.7 dB)
Fuel Consumption
For fuel consumption, both the Michelin Alpin 6 and the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 are equal, with each achieving 5.2 liters per 100 km, showing no difference in fuel efficiency between the two.
UltraGrip Performance 3:
- 0% in fuel consumption
Price
In the 195/60 R15 size, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 costs €93, which is 22% cheaper compared to the Michelin Alpin 6 at €113.
Tire size: 195/60 R15
- Alpin 6: € 113
- UltraGrip Performance 3: € 93
Difference: -22% more cheaper for UltraGrip Performance 3
Expert Conclusion
As a tire expert, I’d conclude that both the Michelin Alpin 6 and the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 have their strengths. The Michelin Alpin 6 excels in snow traction and has better longevity, making it an ideal choice for drivers prioritizing winter capability and durability. On the other hand, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 stands out with its superior aquaplaning resistance, better dry /snow braking, lower noise levels, and more affordable price, offering great value for those looking for all-around performance with a budget-friendly option.
Dr Edwin Pang