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Comparison: Semperit Speed-Life 3 vs. Firestone Roadhawk vs. Kumho Ecsta HS52

1 mutual test(s) with detailed data

Let's take a look at two popular tyre choices: the Semperit Speed-Life 3 and the Firestone Roadhawk. Both of these summer tyres have been well-received in tests, but they each have their own strengths and weaknesses.


The Semperit Speed-Life 3, a model carried forward from previous models such as the Semperit Speed-Life, performed admirably in tests. The tyre's manufacturer ensured this model excelled in wet conditions with an outstanding performance in wet braking and other features. According to AutoBild and ADAC tests, the Semperit Speed-Life 3 achieved a balanced performance. However, the tyre showed some weaknesses on dry surfaces.


Strengths of Semperit Speed-Life 3



  • Excellent performance on wet surfaces

  • Efficiency and good mileage


Weaknesses of Semperit Speed-Life 3



  • Not entirely balanced

  • Weaknesses on dry surfaces


On the other hand, the Firestone Roadhawk scored well in dry handling, according to the Autobild test. However, the tyre's manufacturer, Firestone, found the tyre shows some weaknesses on wet surfaces. Despite this downside, the Firestone Roadhawk made up for it with its efficiency and durability.


Strengths of Firestone Roadhawk



  • Good performance on dry surfaces

  • Efficient and durable


Weaknesses of Firestone Roadhawk



  • Less balanced

  • Weaknesses on wet surfaces

  • Higher noise level


In terms of mutual test positions, both tyres performed quite similarly in various tests. The Firestone Roadhawk came 10th in the Autobild test, while the Semperit Speed-Life 3 ranked slightly lower at the 12th position. The positions were reversed in the Autoklub CR test, showing these tyres perform comparably in different conditions.


Overall, the Firestone Roadhawk seems to have a better rating at 72% compared to the Semperit Speed-Life 3 at 65%. However, considering individual strengths and weaknesses, the decision falls upon individual needs and preferences. While the Firestone Roadhawk excels in dry conditions, the Semperit Speed-Life 3 is a more reliable choice for wet conditions.

Test Profile

Semperit
Speed-Life 3
Firestone
Roadhawk
Kumho
Ecsta HS52
Number of tests
14
21
10
Best position
#2
#2
#2
Average position
18.1
11.9
6.0
Latest test
2026
2024
2026
Available sizes
116
164
104

Performance comparison

Wet Performance
Semperit Speed-Life 3
87%
Semperit
Speed-Life 3
Firestone Roadhawk
87%
Firestone
Roadhawk
Kumho Ecsta HS52
73%
Kumho
Ecsta HS52
Wet Braking
Semperit Speed-Life 3
83%
Firestone Roadhawk
65%
Kumho Ecsta HS52
53%
Wet Handling
Semperit Speed-Life 3
96%
Firestone Roadhawk
94%
Kumho Ecsta HS52
89%
Wet Circle Cornering
Semperit Speed-Life 3
83%
Firestone Roadhawk
90%
Kumho Ecsta HS52
91%
Aquaplaning Longitudinal
Semperit Speed-Life 3
89%
Firestone Roadhawk
94%
Kumho Ecsta HS52
80%
Aquaplaning Cross
Semperit Speed-Life 3
84%
Firestone Roadhawk
92%
Kumho Ecsta HS52
52%
Dry Performance
Semperit Speed-Life 3
84%
Semperit
Speed-Life 3
Firestone Roadhawk
85%
Firestone
Roadhawk
Kumho Ecsta HS52
87%
Kumho
Ecsta HS52
Dry Braking
Semperit Speed-Life 3
81%
Firestone Roadhawk
89%
Kumho Ecsta HS52
87%
Dry Handling
Semperit Speed-Life 3
86%
Firestone Roadhawk
81%
Kumho Ecsta HS52
86%
Comfort & Noise
Semperit Speed-Life 3
99%
Semperit
Speed-Life 3
Firestone Roadhawk
93%
Firestone
Roadhawk
Kumho Ecsta HS52
94%
Kumho
Ecsta HS52
Noise Exterior
Semperit Speed-Life 3
99%
Firestone Roadhawk
93%
Kumho Ecsta HS52
94%
Economy
Semperit Speed-Life 3
67%
Semperit
Speed-Life 3
Firestone Roadhawk
72%
Firestone
Roadhawk
Kumho Ecsta HS52
63%
Kumho
Ecsta HS52
Rolling Resistance
Semperit Speed-Life 3
67%
Firestone Roadhawk
72%
Kumho Ecsta HS52
63%

Tests used in comparison

OrganizationSeasonYearDimension
Autoklub ČRAutoklub ČR
Summer
2023205/55 R16View

Dimensions and prices

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