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Last updated 7/03/2024 - Originally published 7/03/2024
Written by SimpleTire
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Many performance-loving drivers in the US want to go fast from time to time. However, for the speed to be under control, it is important to have a high grip, all of which can be made possible by Ultra-High-Performance (UHP) tires.
UHP-summer tires, as their name suggests, are suitable only at temperatures above 45 degrees Fahrenheit, but they’re still given high regard by buyers owning sports cars, muscle cars, and other high-end performance vehicles.
Here at SimpleTire, we shall be comparing two such tires, namely the Firestone Firehawk Indy 500 and Kumho Ecsta PS91. Between the two, the Ecsta PS91 looks very unique due to a racing-inspired checkered sidewall design. Find out more about them during this Firehawk Indy 500 vs Ecsta PS91 tires comparison.
Designed for use on sedans, compact cars, coupes, muscle cars, and sports cars, the Firestone Firehawk Indy 500 is a UHP-summer tire that has been designed for better handling, improved hydroplaning resistance, and great braking performance. Controllability and handling are pretty impressive for a tire in its category. As compared to its previous generation Firestone Wide Oval Indy 500, this tire stops faster by a significant margin. Do not be confused with the name, as it has nothing to do with the Indy 500 Formula cars. Plenty of technology has been used to make this tire, more of which will be visible as we move ahead. The Firestone Firehawk Indy 500 is good enough for an average SimpleScore of 8.2. Some of the vehicles for which it would be a great fit include the Audi S4, BMW M3, Lexus IS, and Subaru BRZ.
The Kumho Ecsta PS91 has been designed with supercar owners in mind, offering a higher speed rating than the Firehawk Indy 500. It features a compounded rib tread design that enhances stability at greater speeds. Among other aspects of design, a C-Cut 3D design ensures optimum braking performance and a racing-oriented checkered sidewall design makes the tire appear attractive. Rayon and high-strength steel have been used for extra strength here. Both these tires cannot be used in snow or ice at near-freezing temperatures. Some of the vehicles that will best fit this tire include Dodge Challenger Hellcat, Porsche 911, and Ferrari F430.
A robust tread compound and wider footprint result in good traction for the Firestone Firehawk Indy 500, leading to an average traction SimpleScore of 8.5. The unique tread pattern features a Pulse Groove Channel for quick water evacuation, leading to a lower risk of hydroplaning. The tread depth on the Ecsta PS91 is marginally higher than that of the Firehawk Indy 500.
On the other hand, the Kumho Ecsta PS91 has been designed to provide good traction and grip using a silica compound and carbon black with Max Grip Performance Resins. Four wide circumferential grooves remove water from below the contact patch, thereby enhancing the wet grip. We found the tire suitable for an average traction SimpleScore of 8.5.
ADVANTAGE: Tie
Apart from speed, factors such as cornering, handling, and braking are other important aspects of the performance of UHP-summer tires like these. While the Firehawk Indy 500 features a W-speed rating, the Ecsta PS91 is much quicker at Y. A slightly higher tread depth may also be an advantage, though it will clearer through the handling SimpleScore. The Firehawk Indy 500 has been built for impressive handling and controllability in dry and wet conditions. There are wide shoulders that increase tread block stiffness for higher cornering confidence. The Pulse Groove Channel is also helpful in improving wet handling, and the combination of the optimized tread pattern and enhanced rubber compound enables the Firehawk Indy 500 to break 20% faster than its predecessor. This tire was found suitable for an average handling SimpleScore of 8.7.
On the other hand, the level of dry and wet handling is higher on the Ecsta PS91 as it is targeted toward supercar owners. This tire is capable of attaining high speeds on and off the track. While the C-Cut 3D design delivers optimum braking performance, the 3D Dimple design enhances durability. Both tires feature asymmetric tread patterns, and the Ecsta PS91 gains better braking efficiency and high-speed performance due to it. This tire was found suitable for an average handling SimpleScore of 8.5.
ADVANTAGE: Firestone Firehawk Indy 500
The Firehawk Indy 500 is backed by Firestone’s 90-day Buy and Try guarantee on tires sold in sets of 4 or more. It features a robust tread compound and a wider footprint for preventing uneven wear and providing a longer tread life. On the other hand, the Ecsta PS91 features Kumho’s Road Hazard Warranty and a full exchange or refund within 30 days from the date of purchase (terms and conditions apply). Firestone offers a high-quality compound that generally lasts longer than expected and traction on the Firehawk Indy 500 prevents wheel spin, ensuring a long life. While the Firehawk Indy 500 scores 7.6, the Ecsta PS91 gets a 7.7 in terms of longevity.
ADVANTAGE: Kumho Ecsta PS91
It is clear from the above descriptions that while the Firehawk Indy 500 is suitable for sports cars, muscle cars, and even regular sedans, the Kumho Ecsta PS91, with a much higher speed rating, is meant for supercars. If you’re buying them for a car that is suitable for both tires and is focused on traction, there will be negligible differences between the two. Kumho also offers buyers a better-looking tire here.
Here’s a closer look at the prices for the two tires. While the Firestone Firehawk Indy 500 starts at $140.99 ($563.96 for 4), the Kumho Ecsta PS91 begins at $140.97 ($563.88 for 4). As visible, there cannot be a clear preference between the two in terms of prices, so let’s look at the other options.
This is why you should consider the Firestone Firehawk Indy 500:
In contrast, these are the reasons to select the Kumho Ecsta PS91:
Still not sure which tire to buy? Fortunately, SimpleTire is here to help as our helpful agents are more than happy to assist you in selecting the right tire for your ride and budget.
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