Michelin X-Ice Snow vs Continental VikingContact 8: In this studless winter tire battle, we pit the newly launched 2024 Continental VikingContact 8 against the well-established Michelin X-Ice Snow. The VikingContact 8 steps into the arena with big shoes to fill, following in the footsteps of its highly successful predecessor, the VikingContact 7, which won multiple press tests. The question is, does the new VikingContact 8 have what it takes to dethrone the X-Ice Snow in terms of ice, snow, and wet performance? This showdown promises to be an exciting clash of innovation and winter expertise!
Table of Contents
Results: Michelin X-Ice Snow vs Continental VikingContact 8
Results below were taken from 2024 Vi Bilagare Friction Tire Test with a total of 7 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin X-Ice Snow vs Continental VikingContact 8 based on the relevant performance category. The Michelin X-Ice Snow being the older tire was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Note that for subjective ratings, 1 point is equivalent to 10%. So if tire A has a 4 point rating & tire B has a 3 point rating, tire A is better than tire B by 10%. The tire size of interest is a 225/45 R17 which is a common tire size for Audi S3 and BMW 1 series. The testing vehicle is a Volkswagen Golf.
Ice
When comparing the ice performances between the Continental VikingContact 8 and the Michelin X-Ice Snow, the X-Ice Snow proves to be slightly better in ice braking, stopping 1.28 meters sooner than the VikingContact 8. In terms of ice acceleration, the Michelin also takes the lead, reaching speed 0.91 seconds faster than the Continental. However, in ice handling, the VikingContact 8 shines with a faster lap time of 64.6 seconds, outperforming the X-Ice Snow by 3.2 seconds on a full ice lap.
VikingContact 8 :
- -11% in ice braking
- -11% in ice traction
- +5% in ice handling (lap time)
Snow
In snow performance, the Michelin X-Ice Snow has a slight edge in snow braking, stopping 0.22 meters shorter than the Continental VikingContact 8. However, in snow acceleration, the VikingContact 8 is marginally quicker, reaching speed 0.04 seconds faster than the X-Ice Snow. For snow handling, the Continental takes the lead with a faster lap time, completing the course 1.3 seconds quicker than the Michelin.
VikingContact 8 :
- -2% in snow braking
- +1% in snow traction
- +2% in snow handling (lap time)
Wet
In wet performance, the Michelin X-Ice Snow outperforms the Continental VikingContact 8 in wet braking, stopping 1 meter shorter. However, in wet handling, the VikingContact 8 completes the lap 0.5 seconds faster than the Michelin. When it comes to aquaplaning resistance, the Michelin excels, maintaining control at a speed 4.9 km/h higher than the Continental.
VikingContact 8 :
- -2% in wet braking
- +1% in wet handling (average lap speed)
- -8% in straight aquaplaning
Dry
In dry performance, the Continental VikingContact 8 slightly outperforms the Michelin X-Ice Snow in braking, stopping 0.37 meters shorter. However, when it comes to dry handling, both tires are evenly matched with identical subjective handling scores.
VikingContact 8 :
- +1% in dry braking
- 0% in dry handling (subjective)
Noise
In terms of exterior noise, the Continental VikingContact 8 is slightly quieter, producing 67.4 decibels compared to the Michelin X-Ice Snow’s 67.7 decibels, making a minimal difference of 0.3 decibels in favor of the Continental.
VikingContact 8 :
- ~0% in exterior noise (-0.3 dB)
Fuel Consumption
In terms of fuel consumption, the Continental VikingContact 8 is slightly more efficient, using 5.3 liters per 100 km compared to the Michelin X-Ice Snow’s 5.45 liters, resulting in a small advantage of 0.15 liters per 100 km for the Continental.
VikingContact 8 :
- +1% in fuel consumption
Price
In the 235/55 R17 size, the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 is priced at €235, while the Continental VikingContact 8 costs €258, making the VikingContact 8 9% more expensive than the Hakkapeliitta R5.
Tire size: 235/55 R17
- VikingContact 8 : € 258
Difference: +9% more expensive for VikingContact 8
Conclusion
As a tire expert, I can confidently say that both the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 and the Continental VikingContact 8 have distinct advantages, depending on what you’re prioritizing in winter tire performance.
The Hakkapeliitta R5 offers excellent value for money, with strong ice and snow performance at a lower price point. It’s a great choice for drivers who need reliable winter traction without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, the VikingContact 8, while more expensive, excels in ice handling, wet braking, and overall fuel efficiency. It also delivers a quieter ride and better lap times on both ice and snow. If you’re looking for a premium tire with superior handling across various winter conditions, the VikingContact 8 is worth the investment. Both tires are strong contenders, but the choice comes down to your specific needs and budget.
Dr Edwin Pang