Comparison: BFGoodrich Advantage vs. Kumho Ecsta HS52 vs. Firestone Roadhawk

On evaluating the summer tyres, the BFGoodrich Advantage and the Kumho Ecsta HS52, various data points need to be considered. This comparison includes detailed test results from Autobild and ADAC, which offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses, and their overall performance.

As per our ratings, the Kumho Ecsta HS52 shows a marginal victory, with a score of 73% compared to the Advantage's 66%. A close examination of the tyres' performances in mutual tests further emphasises this difference.

Autobild's tests reveal a stark contrast between these two tyres. Out of 51 tyres, the Advantage conceded a 20th place while the Ecsta HS52 climbed up to the 3rd position. BFGoodrich's tyre shines for its comfort but falls short in not accentuating any other criteria. On the other hand, Kumho's tyre has an array of strengths, including dry braking, wet braking, dry handling, and price/value ratio.

In ADAC's tests, the Ecsta HS52 continued to outperform the Advantage, securing the 8th position out of 50 tyres versus the latter's 21st place.

The in-depth text summaries by Autobild also highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each model. The BFGoodrich Advantage excels in dry handling and offers a quiet ride along with a low rolling resistance, all at an affordable price. However, it underperforms in wet conditions. The Kumho Ecsta HS52 offers well-rounded performance on both dry and wet surfaces, but its sustainability and energy efficiency are areas needing improvement. However, its strength lies in its price to performance ratio.

Both the BFGoodrich Advantage and the Kumho Ecsta HS52 are distinct in their strengths. However, the Kumho Ecsta HS52 does lead the race by showing a more balanced performance throughout. Notably, the Ecsta HS52 is a successor to the Kumho Ecstra HS51, carrying forward the legacy of efficiency, comfort, and performance.

Overall, each tyre caters to different consumer requirements, the final decision, therefore, rests largely on individual preferences.