Hankook Ventus S1 Evo3 vs Falken Azenis FK510: Both are max-performance summer tires that provide superior performance. However, to pick a winner, we made various tests with the same size (235/40R19).
The overall traction of FK510 is better due to its higher contact patch, numerous sipes, and compact shoulders. However, the hydroplaning resistance of Evo3 is superior because of its wider grooves. In this article, we will also discuss some other factors that will decide which tire is the clear winner. Excited? Let’s begin!
Examine the treads on these tires closely. They hold the key to knowing which to choose. In fact if you visit my "tread design" page, picking the right tire would never bother you.
Table of Contents
Side By Side Comparison
Hankook Ventus S1 Evo 3
Falken Azenis FK510
S1 Evo3 features an asymmetrical tread design with two block columns and one central rib sandwiched between its shoulders.
There are a total of four grooves which are deeper than its competitor. In addition to this, there are quite deep sipes present on its central part.
But, the sipes are lesser in number when compared to FK510. The shoulders of these tires are broad with closely placed blocks and the number of sipes on the shoulders is also less.
Falken FK510 also features an asymmetrical tread design with grooves running along with its tread.
The grooves are narrower in comparison and divide the tire between three block columns and two shoulders.
The compact shoulders are closely packed and the sipes are in an inclined portion on the central part and also extend a bit inward.
On the other hand, sipes on the shoulders are deeper and greater in number.
Grip Comparison
When it comes to the grip comparison, the Evo3 has relatively wider grooves.
The contact patch becomes limited due to wider grooves and as a result, the braking distance is increased. For this reason, the efficiency of these tires on dry roads is reduced.
Coming to the wet performance of these tires, it is also lesser than their competitor. That’s because the sipes found on the tread’s central part are less in number. Therefore, the wet braking distance of the tires increases, and their grip on wet roads is also compromised.
As for the FK510, it features a comparatively higher contact patch.
As a result, the tread comes more in contact with the road and its dry braking distance is reduced.
This leads to a higher grip on dry surfaces. The same performance is translated into wet roads as well.
Numerous sipes found on the tread help in maintaining the grip on wet roads pretty well. For this reason, the vehicle can maintain a firm grip on wet roads even at high speeds.
Handling Comparison
The handling of any tire is determined by its shoulders. Here, the FK510 features open shoulders as compared to the Evo3. As a result, the time taken by the vehicle to complete a lap will increase and its dry handling performance will be compromised. However, its wet handling is superb due to numerous sipes present on its shoulder lugs that wipe away water very efficiently.
The Evo3 is the clear winner of the handling contest here due to its closely packed shoulder blocks. The compact shoulders allow the tire to complete a lap on dry roads much faster. The same can’t be said for wet handling. The lesser number of sipes found on the shoulder of these tires make them lose to their competitor. That’s because the time taken by the vehicle to complete a lap on wet roads will increase.
Comparison of Hydroplaning Resistance
When tested for hydroplaning resistance, the Evo3 performs better because of its deep circumferential grooves. Due to this, the tire’s capacity to disperse water increases and it can remain in contact with the road in wet conditions. In addition to this, even though the sipes are lesser in number, they are quite deep. This aids the tire more on wet surfaces.
On the flip side, the void ratio of the FK510 is lower than its competitor. Thus, even though it contains numerous sipes, its performance in evacuating the water is reduced. So, the tire is put at the risk of hydroplaning and the vehicle might also lose control.
Comparison of Rolling Resistance
Rolling resistance is a huge factor that can affect the fuel consumption of a vehicle. The lower the rolling resistance of a tire, the lesser fuel consumption. As a result, the vehicle will emit fewer carbon emissions. Evo3 here has a lower rolling resistance due to its lower contact patch. This means that the tire will require less energy to roll and as a result, its fuel efficiency will increase.
On the other hand, FK510 has a higher rolling resistance due to its higher contact patch. This will lead to more friction between the tread and the road and the energy required to overcome this friction will also increase. Thus, more fuel will be utilized which will reduce the fuel efficiency.
Comfort Comparison
If you are in search of a comfortable tire for your vehicle, then we would not suggest going for the Evo3 as it produces more noise comparatively. Since these tires feature wider grooves, there is a lot of space for the air molecules to get trapped inside them. When these air particles strike against the wall of the grooves, they produce a lot of noise which can be a major discomfort for many people.
In comparison, FK510 produces less noise. That’s because it possesses narrower grooves and as a result, there is not much space for the air particles to get inside. This is what makes these tires relatively quieter.
Durability & Treadwear
Evo3 possesses a higher void ratio which reduces its contact patch. Since the contact patch of the tire is lower, the rate of the treadwear will be lower as well. Moreover, these tires are manufactured using high-quality materials such as silica-based tread compounds. So, the coupling of the carcass is stiffened and the users get a highly refined tire. This adds more to their durability.
Conversely, FK510 features a lower void ratio and therefore, its contact patch is increased. As a result, there will be more treadwear as compared to its competitor. Even though high-quality material is used in the manufacturing of these tires as well, they are not as durable as their rival. So, Evo3 is the clear winner here.
Price
When it comes to the price of the tires, the Evo3 is a higher-priced tire due to its excellent hydroplaning resistance, increased fuel efficiency, and durability. But its performance lacks a bit in terms of grip. On the other hand, FK510 is a much affordable option that provides remarkable traction and comfort. However, you may choose which tire you want based on your requirements.
Summary
- Both are summer tires.
- Dry and wet grip of the FK510 is better.
- The wet handling of FK510 is also more efficient.
- Evo3’s performance is better on flooded roads.
- The rolling resistance of Evo3 is lower than its competitor.
- Fk510 is a more comfortable tire due to its narrower grooves.
- Hankook Ventus is a more durable option than the Azenis.
- FK510 is a more affordable option.
