Choosing the right high-performance all-season tire can be as challenging as navigating a tight corner at high speed. Whether you’re torn between the Pirelli P Zero (PZ4) and the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3, each offering distinct advantages depending on your driving conditions, this article will help steer you in the right direction.
The Pirelli P Zero (PZ4) excels in dry conditions with superior traction and handling, while the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 provides better comfort, noise control, and overall longevity. Both are high-performance all-season tires, but they cater to slightly different driving preferences.
In this article, we will compare the Pirelli P Zero (PZ4) and the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 across various performance categories including wet and dry conditions, comfort, and treadwear. Additionally, we will look at other competitive options in the high-performance all-season tire market to give you a comprehensive overview.
Pirelli P Zero (PZ4)
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
7.9 of 10
Wet Weather
8.2 of 10
Winter Weather
N/A
Tread Wear
6.2 of 10
Dry Weather
9.1 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.2 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 300
UTQG Traction Rating: AA
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
None
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.1 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.2 of 10
Cornering: 9.0 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.2 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.0 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: N/A
Heavy Snow Grip: N/A
Ice Grip: N/A
Comfort Level: 8.3 of 10
Road Noise: 8.1 of 10
The Pirelli P Zero (PZ4) is a renowned player in the high-performance all-season tire category, favored for its impressive handling and stability on dry surfaces. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its performance across various parameters and an honest look at its pros and cons.
Key Performance Measurements
Wet Performance:
- Hydroplaning Resistance (8.1): This score suggests that while the PZ4 performs adequately in wet conditions, it isn’t the top performer against hydroplaning. This means the tire maintains decent contact with wet roads, though caution is advised during heavy rainfalls.
- Wet Traction (8.2): It offers fair traction in wet conditions, ensuring a stable ride in light to moderate rain but might not provide the best grip during more severe weather scenarios.
Dry Performance:
- Corner Stability (9.0): The PZ4 shines when it comes to maintaining stability in corners, especially at high speeds, making it a solid choice for spirited driving.
- Dry Traction (9.2): With excellent traction on dry roads, this tire supports robust acceleration and effective braking, contributing to a safer and more responsive driving experience.
- Steering Response (9.0): It reacts promptly and precisely to steering inputs, which is crucial for navigating through traffic and avoiding road hazards effectively.
Comfort:
- Ride Quality (8.4): The PZ4 is designed to absorb road imperfections, providing a ride that is comfortable enough for most users, though it is not the softest in its class.
- Noise (8.2): It performs reasonably well in minimizing road noise, offering a relatively quiet ride that enhances overall vehicle comfort, although not leading the category.
Treadwear (6.2): This is where the PZ4 falls short. A treadwear rating of 6.2 indicates that these tires might wear down faster than many of its competitors, potentially leading to earlier replacement and higher long-term costs.
Pros
- Exceptional Dry Performance: The PZ4’s superior dry traction and corner stability are its standout features, making it ideal for driving in climates where rain is infrequent.
- Responsive Handling: Drivers who appreciate a tire that communicates well with the road will find the PZ4’s steering response to be top-notch.
Cons
- Moderate Wet Performance: The tire’s performance in wet conditions is adequate but not exceptional, which could be a limiting factor for drivers in rainy areas.
- Lower Treadwear Rating: The faster tread wear means that while the PZ4 offers high performance, it might also come with higher maintenance costs.
Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.7 of 10
Wet Weather
8.1 of 10
Winter Weather
N/A
Tread Wear
8.5 of 10
Dry Weather
8.6 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.6 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 240
UTQG Traction Rating: AA
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / Free replacement first year or 2/32″ of wear, then prorated until 2/32″ remaining depth
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.3 of 10
Wet Grip: 7.9 of 10
Cornering: 8.6 of 10
Dry Grip: 8.7 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.5 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: N/A
Heavy Snow Grip: N/A
Ice Grip: N/A
Comfort Level: 8.7 of 10
Road Noise: 8.5 of 10
The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 is a strong contender in the high-performance all-season tire market, known for its balanced approach to handling both wet and dry conditions. This section offers a detailed analysis of its key performance indicators along with a balanced view of its advantages and limitations.
Key Performance Measurements
Wet Performance:
- Hydroplaning Resistance (8.3): The Asymmetric 3 offers commendable resistance to hydroplaning, providing a secure feel during heavy rainfalls. This feature makes it a reliable option for wet weather driving.
- Wet Traction (7.9): Although it provides good stability in wet conditions, its traction score is slightly lower compared to top-tier competitors. It performs well in light to moderate rain but may struggle in intense storm conditions.
Dry Performance:
- Corner Stability (8.6): The tire provides solid stability in corners, which is sufficient for everyday driving and spirited sessions on dry roads.
- Dry Traction (8.8): It offers robust dry road traction, ensuring effective acceleration and braking capabilities.
- Steering Response (8.5): The steering response is quite responsive, though not as sharp as some sportier alternatives, making it well-suited for drivers who prefer a balance of comfort and performance.
Comfort:
- Ride Quality (8.6): This tire excels in ride comfort, smoothly absorbing bumps and providing a plush driving experience that is typically well-regarded by drivers and critics alike.
- Noise (8.4): The Asymmetric 3 is relatively quiet, contributing to a peaceful cabin environment, particularly at highway speeds.
Treadwear (8.5): The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 scores well in treadwear, indicating durability and a longer lifespan than many high-performance tires. This makes it a more economical choice over the long term, despite the absence of a warranty mileage guarantee.
Pros
- Balanced Wet and Dry Performance: The Asymmetric 3 strikes a good balance between wet and dry performance, making it a versatile choice for diverse weather conditions.
- Comfort and Noise: It stands out in its class for comfort and low noise levels, enhancing the overall driving experience.
- Durable Treadwear: With a high treadwear rating, this tire promises longer intervals between replacements, offering better value for money over its lifespan.
Cons
- Slightly Lower Wet Traction: While it handles wet conditions well, its performance in very wet or slippery conditions isn’t as strong as some might need.
- Sub-Optimal Extreme Performance: For those seeking the pinnacle of high-speed performance, especially in dry conditions, there are sharper and more responsive tires available.
Comparative Analysis
In the high-performance all-season tire segment, choosing between the Pirelli P Zero (PZ4) and the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 can be challenging. This section will compare these two tires across various performance metrics to help clarify which might be the best fit for your driving needs.
Wet Performance Comparison
- Hydroplaning Resistance:
- Pirelli P Zero (PZ4): Scores an 8.1, indicating decent performance but may not instill confidence under heavy rain conditions.
- Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3: Scores an 8.3, slightly better, suggesting a safer experience during wet conditions.
- Wet Traction:
- Pirelli P Zero (PZ4): With a score of 8.2, it offers stable traction in mild to moderate wet conditions.
- Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3: At 7.9, it is slightly behind the Pirelli, indicating it might struggle more in severe wet conditions.
Verdict on Wet Performance: The Goodyear has better hydroplaning resistance, which is crucial for rainy climates, though the Pirelli slightly edges it out in general wet traction.
Dry Performance Comparison
- Corner Stability:
- Pirelli P Zero (PZ4): Excellent stability at 9.0, perfect for aggressive driving and spirited cornering.
- Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3: Very good at 8.6, but not as sharp as the Pirelli under high-speed maneuvers.
- Dry Traction:
- Pirelli P Zero (PZ4): Leads with a score of 9.2, indicating superior grip and braking performance.
- Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3: Close behind at 8.8, robust but not as optimized for dynamic driving.
- Steering Response:
- Pirelli P Zero (PZ4): At 9.0, it offers responsive and precise steering, ideal for performance enthusiasts.
- Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3: Scores 8.5, which is competent but may feel slightly less connected to the road.
Verdict on Dry Performance: Pirelli P Zero (PZ4) takes the lead with superior corner stability, dry traction, and steering responsiveness, making it the preferred option for drivers who prioritize dry condition performance.
Comfort and Noise Comparison
- Ride Quality:
- Pirelli P Zero (PZ4): Provides a comfortable ride at 8.4, absorbing road imperfections adequately.
- Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3: Slightly better with a score of 8.6, indicating a plushier feel particularly on longer drives.
- Noise:
- Pirelli P Zero (PZ4): At 8.2, it is reasonably quiet, though not the best in class.
- Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3: With a score of 8.4, it offers a quieter environment, reducing driver fatigue on various pavements.
Verdict on Comfort and Noise: Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 edges out in terms of ride quality and noise, providing a more comfortable and quieter driving experience.
Longevity and Value
- Treadwear:
- Pirelli P Zero (PZ4): The lower treadwear rating of 6.2 indicates a need for potentially more frequent replacements.
- Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3: Higher treadwear rating of 8.5 suggests longer durability and potentially lower long-term costs.
Verdict on Longevity and Value: The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 is likely a more economical choice over time due to its superior durability.
Other Competitors in the Market
While the Pirelli P Zero (PZ4) and the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 are notable options in the high-performance all-season tire category, several other tires are worth considering. This section explores additional competitors, providing a broader view for potential buyers.
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Traction: 8.9
- Dry Traction: 9.5
- Comfort: 8.8
- Treadwear: 8.1, Warranty Mileage: 30,000 miles
Pros:
- Exceptional dry and wet traction, leading its class.
- Very good comfort and noise levels, combined with a favorable treadwear rating and mileage warranty, offer excellent long-term value.
Cons:
- Premium pricing might not fit every budget, positioning it as a high-end option.
Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Traction: 8.9
- Dry Traction: 9.4
- Comfort: 8.8
- Treadwear: 7.9, Warranty Mileage: 30,000 miles
Pros:
- Strong performance in both wet and dry conditions with high marks for comfort.
- Includes a mileage warranty, enhancing value for money.
Cons:
- Slightly lower treadwear rating than some competitors, which may impact long-term costs.
Falken Azenis FK510
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Traction: 8.6
- Dry Traction: 8.9
- Comfort: 8.3
- Treadwear: 7.7, No Warranty Mileage
Pros:
- Strong performer in both wet and dry conditions.
- Strikes a good balance between performance and comfort, making it a versatile option.
Cons:
- No mileage warranty could be a drawback for potential buyers looking for assured longevity.
The market for high-performance all-season tires is filled with diverse options catering to different preferences and requirements. While the Pirelli P Zero (PZ4) and Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 offer specific advantages, exploring competitors like the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S, Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02, and others can provide additional choices that may better meet specific needs.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires:
Final Thoughts
The Pirelli P Zero (PZ4) and Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 both offer compelling features for someone looking to enhance their driving experience. The Pirelli is the tire of choice for drivers who prioritize sharp handling and performance on dry roads.
On the other hand, the Goodyear is ideal for those who value a quieter, more comfortable ride and better durability over varied driving conditions. By understanding the specific needs of your driving and regional climate, you can choose a tire that not only fits but enhances your driving experience. Consider also other competitors in the market to ensure the best fit for your vehicle and driving habits.
Good luck and happy motoring.
