Nokian Powerproof vs Zline

Nokian Powerproof vs Zline: Both Powerproof and Zline are summer tires developed for excellent performance even in extreme temperatures.

However, upon testing the 224/40R18 size of both tires, we found the dry and wet grip of Zline more powerful due to its higher contact patch and multiple sipes on central blocks.

On the other hand, the hydroplaning resistance of Powerproof is more remarkable because of its wide grooves. Let’s dig in a bit more about both of these tires in this article!

Detailed Comparison of Nokian Powerproof and Zline

Nokian Powerproof features an asymmetric design separated by 4 wide circumferential grooves. One tread blocks column and two ribs are sandwiched between the shoulders. The shoulders of the tire are broad and numerous sipes can be found on them. However, the sipes on the central part are not effective enough.

Nokian Zline features an asymmetrical tread pattern as well. The central blocks of the tire are sandwiched between two compact outer shoulders. In addition to this, the shoulders are also compact. Even though the sipes on the shoulders are ineffective in comparison, the numerous sipes found on the central part compensate for this shortcoming.

Grip Comparison

Powerproof was not able to outperform Zline when tested for dry grip capabilities, yet it still displayed decent performance. This tire features a relatively higher void ratio and as a result, lacks grip on dry surfaces. Since it has less contact with the road comparatively, so it results in a higher braking distance. In terms of wet grip, the performance of this tire is not much impressive. The sipes on the tire are not enough to wipe away the water effectively. This will increase the wet braking distance and the tire will be more prone to slipping.

Conversely, the performance of Zline is superior under dry conditions because of its narrower grooves which allow a respectable area of tread to come in contact with the road. This reduces the dry braking distance and as a result, the drivers get a better dry grip. In addition to this, the numerous sipes provide it with adequate space for the water to pass through its tread. This results in a lower braking distance making it a preferable option for wet gripping as well.

Handling Comparison

Powerproof features broad shoulders and wider grooves which reduces its dry handling capabilities. Therefore, the vehicle’s speed will decrease while steering and as a result, the time taken to complete a lap will increase. However, the same is not the case with wet handling. The sipes on the shoulders are incredibly deep. So, the time required by the vehicle to complete a lap on wet roads will reduce making it superior to its competitor.

On the other hand, the compact shoulders of Zline allow the tire to enjoy good contact with the road which results in less time for the completion of a lap. However, the same performance is not translated into wet handling. The sipes on the shoulders are not effective so the time to complete a lap on wet track in increased. And as a result, its wet handling is compromised.

Comparison of Hydroplaning Resistance

When tested for hydroplaning resistance, Powerproof displayed good hydroplaning resistance because of its wider grooves that offer a higher capacity to disperse water.

In comparison, Zline struggles a bit when it comes to hydroplaning resistance. That’s because it features a lower void ratio and the sipes on the tread are also lesser in number. So, there are more chances that the tire will lose grip in flooded conditions.

Comparison of Rolling Resistance

Here, Powerproof features a lower contact patch; hence, its rolling resistance will be lower as well. Since lesser force will be required to move the tire, fuel efficiency will also increase.

On the other hand, the higher contact patch of Zline increases its rolling resistance. As greater force is required to roll the tire and overcome the friction, it will also decrease the fuel efficiency of the vehicle.

Comfort Comparison

The noise level of Powerproof is much higher since it possesses wider grooves. As a result, a greater number of air particles will get stuck inside and strike the walls of the tire. This will lead to more noise production which reduces its comfort level.

In comparison, Zline features narrower grooves. So, there is not much space for the air particles to strike back and forth within the walls of the tire. Since there is less space, so it produces less noise as well. This increases the overall comfort of these tires.

Treadwear & Durability

In the case of Powerproof, the higher void ratio of the tire reduces its contact patch resulting in lower treadwear. The tire is also manufactured using silica-based tread compound which is a highly refined material. In addition to this, the carcass has a stiff coupling which results in a much durable tire. When the higher durability is combined with the lower treadwear, the users get much better mileage as well.

Comparatively, due to the higher contact patch of Zline there is more treadwear as compared to its counterpart. Although the stiff sidewall along with the special U-shaped tread compound makes the tire durable, it is not as durable as the Powerproof.

Price

Nokian Powerproof is a lower-priced tire with excellent wet traction, hydroplaning resistance, lower rolling resistance, lower treadwear, and higher durability. However, Nokian Zline outperforms it when it comes to dry traction and comfort. But, it is on the pricier side. So, you may choose whichever tire you want based on your requirements.

Summary

• Both are summer tires.
• Dry and wet grip of Zline is better.
• Dry handling of Zline is superior and wet handling of Powerproof is more effective.
• Hydroplaning resistance of Powerproof is better.
• Zline features a higher rolling resistance making it less fuel-efficient.
• Nokian Zline produces less noise due to its narrower grooves.
• Powerproof offers increased mileage due to higher durability and lower treadwear.
• The price of Zline is higher than Powerproof.