Nokian Powerproof vs Fulda SportControl 2: Powerproof and the SportControl 2 are both summer tires that are designed for excellent wet and dry traction. However, when we tested the 245/45R18 size of both, we found some major differences.
When it comes to the traction of these tires, the Powerproof performs remarkably well due to its narrower grooves, a higher number of sipes, and compact shoulders. However, it is unable to outperform the SportControl 2 in hydroplaning resistance because of its lower void ratio. This article will also cover some other prominent differences between both the tires which will help you make a well-informed decision. So, let’s start!
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
Detailed Comparison of Nokian Powerproof and Fulda SportControl 2
Specially designed for passenger cars, SUVs, and 4x4s, Nokian features asymmetric pattern along with 2 outer shoulders. The ribs and the shoulders are separated by 4 circumferential grooves. In addition to this, there are numerous sipes spread all over the tread.
Fulda SportControl 2 shoulders are not as compact as its rival along with farther placed tread blocks. The shoulders are separated by deep grooves. However, just like the Powerproof, there are no lateral grooves present. But this does not hinder the tire’s performance when it comes to hydroplaning resistance.
Grip Comparison
Grip is directly proportional to the contact patch. Here, the dry braking distance of Powerproof is 35.9m. This braking distance is shorter than its competitor because these tires feature a higher contact patch. This is what makes them a better option in comparison. On the other hand, the wet braking distance of the tires is estimated at 54.3m. This is also better than the SportControl 2 due to the numerous and deep sipes found all over the tread pattern. Since these tires have excellent grip on wet and dry roads, they will keep the vehicle stable during sharp speeding and turning.
While the performance of SportControl 2 is not that effective when it comes to the grip. Since these tires feature a relatively lower contact patch, their grip on dry roads is compromised. For this reason, we found their dry braking distance higher than its counterpart at 37.4m. Talking about wet grip of these tires, it is not entirely poor. However, with a wet braking distance of 54.6m, it still lags a bit behind. So, when it comes to the grip contest, Powerproof is the clear winner.
Handling Comparison
If you want to determine the handling performance of the tires, you must look at their shoulders. A tire with more compact shoulders and closely packed shoulder blocks will be able to finish lap faster. With an average speed of 98.3 km/H, we found the Powerproof’s performance on dry surfaces remarkable. Its compact shoulders and closely packed shoulder blocks help it improve its handling and it takes less time for completion of a stage. Moreover, with an average speed of 80.9 km/h, performance of this tire on wet surfaces is remarkable as well.
Conversely, when it comes to the dry handling of the SportControl 2, it does not perform as effectively as its counterpart on dry and wet surfaces. The tire features wider shoulders and farther placed tire blocks. As a result, its performance on dry and wet surfaces is reduced. For this reason, it has a dry and wet speed of 97.2 and 80.3 km/h respectively which is less than the Powerproof. So, it will take more time for finishing a lap on both dry and wet surface.
Hydroplaning Resistance
When we tested both the tires for their hydroplaning resistance, we found that the Powerproof was unable to outperform its opponent. That’s because these tires feature a lower void ratio due to their narrower grooves. Resultantly, they become vulnerable to hydroplaning.
In comparison, the SportControl 2 has wider circumferential grooves for better hydroplaning resistance. Thus, these grooves provide the tire with the capability to pass through a greater volume of water. For this reason, the vehicle can get through the flooded roads smoothly.
Rolling Resistance
It is the force required to keep the tire moving on a road’s surface. The higher the contact patch, the more force it will need to roll on the road. Not only this, but due to the higher rolling resistance, the tire will require more fuel as well. Since the contact patch of the Powerproof is relatively higher here, it will also require more force to roll on the road. As a result, its rolling resistance increases leading to lower fuel efficiency.
Comparatively, the SportControl 2 will face a lower rolling resistance because of its lower contact patch. That’s because the lower contact patch implies that less area of tread will touch the road. As a result, the tire will require less force to roll. Since the rolling resistance of these tires is lower as compared to their opponents, their fuel efficiency will be higher making them a better option.
Comfort Comparison
When it comes to the summer tires, all of them pay more attention to noise reduction and ride comfort. However, when it comes to these two tires, Powerproof is a more comfortable option. That’s because it features narrower grooves which allow fewer air particles to get stuck inside the them. Due to lesser space available, the air will not strike will tread. As a result, less noise will be produced.
On the flip side, the SportControl 2 possesses wider grooves than the Powerproof. So, there will be more space for air to strike back-forth and as a result, the tire will produce more noise. So, these tires can be a bit uncomfortable option to drive the vehicle with.
Durability & Treadwear
In the case of the Powerproof, as it has higher contact patch, its tread will wear out faster as compared to its competitor. These tires are manufactured using high-quality materials which make them durable. However, they are not as durable as the Powerproof in comparison. Due to the faster treadwear and lower durability, there will be a decrease in the mileage of these tires as well.
In comparison, due to the higher void ratio of SportControl 2, its tread wear will be lower. Moreover, the special silica-based tread compound is a highly refined material that adds more to the durability of these tires. Other than that, there is a stiff coupling on the carcass that reduces the chances of puncture. With the combination of lower treadwear and higher durability, the drivers get an increase in the mileage too.
Price Comparison
Powerproof is a higher-priced article due to its excellent traction and comfort. However, its performance is not that effective when it comes to hydroplaning resistance due to its lower void ratio. So, if you are in search of an affordable tire that offers better hydroplaning and rolling resistance, and higher durability, then the SportControl 2 is something worth considering.
To Conclude
- Powerproof has better grip.
- The wet and dry handling of Nokian is much better.
- SportControl 2 offers more hydroplaning resistance.
- Rolling resistance of Fulda SportControl 2 is lower that leads to improved fuel efficiency.
- Powerproof creates less noise.
- Tread of SportControl 2 will wear out slower as compared to its counterpart.
- Nokian Powerproof is a higher-priced tire.
