As an automotive enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the remarkable advancements in tire technology.
Today, I want to delve into the fierce competition between two tire giants: Bridgestone and Michelin.
In this post, we’ll explore their rich histories and scrutinize their dry, wet, and snow performances.
We’ll also delve into mileage warranties, average lifespan, prices, and weigh the pros and cons.
By the end, we’ll determine which brand reigns supreme.
So, let’s dive into the world of Bridgestone vs Michelin and uncover the ultimate tire champion!
Bridgestone vs Michelin – Comparison Table
| Bridgestone | Michelin | |
| Country of Origin | Japan | France |
| Year Founded | 1931 | 1889 |
| Made In | United States, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Brazil, Argentine, Belgium, Spain, Poland, Italy, Hungary, Russia, Turkey, South Africa, Thailand, Indonesia, Taiwan, Vietnam, India, China, Australia, or Japan | Canada, France, Germany, Spain, and the United States |
| Parent | Ishibashi family (Japan) | Compagnie Générale des Établissements Michelin SCA (France) |
About the Brands
1. Bridgestone
Bridgestone, a renowned tire brand, originated in Japan in 1931 and is currently owned by the Ishibashi family.
The company was founded by Shojiro Ishibashi, who aimed to produce high-quality tires for automobiles and other vehicles.
Over the years, Bridgestone has established itself as a global leader in the tire industry, offering a wide range of innovative and durable products.
Bridgestone’s success can be attributed to its commitment to research and development, allowing the brand to continually introduce new technologies and advancements.
The company’s focus on quality and performance has made it a trusted choice for drivers worldwide.
Bridgestone tires are known for their superior grip, durability, and excellent handling in various road conditions.
With a strong presence in both the consumer and commercial markets, Bridgestone has expanded its operations globally.
The brand has manufacturing facilities in numerous countries, enabling it to meet the growing demand for its products.
Bridgestone’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its eco-friendly initiatives, including the development of fuel-efficient tires and recycling programs.
Through its long and successful history, Bridgestone has cemented its position as one of the most respected and reliable tire brands, offering drivers safety, performance, and comfort on the road.
Mostly Known for Manufacturing Tires For:
- Passenger cars
- Trucks
- Buses
- SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles)
- Crossovers
- Performance vehicles
- Sports cars
- Off-road vehicles
- All-terrain vehicles
- Commercial trucks
- Agricultural vehicles
- Construction equipment
- Mining equipment
- Motorcycles
- Aircraft
2. Michelin
The Michelin brand has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1889 in France.
Originally established by the Michelin brothers, André and Edouard, the company quickly gained recognition for its innovative tire designs.
Over the years, Michelin has become synonymous with excellence in the tire industry.
It has pioneered numerous advancements, including the first removable pneumatic tire, the radial tire, and the run-flat tire.
These innovations have revolutionized the automotive industry, enhancing safety and performance.
Michelin’s commitment to quality and durability has earned the brand a reputation for producing high-performance tires trusted by drivers worldwide.
As part of the Compagnie Générale des Établissements Michelin SCA, the brand continues to push boundaries, constantly striving for excellence and remaining at the forefront of tire technology.
Today, Michelin remains a global leader in the tire industry, providing a wide range of high-quality tires for various vehicles and applications.
Mostly Known for Manufacturing Tires For:
- Passenger cars
- SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles)
- Light trucks
- Commercial trucks
- Motorcycles
- Bicycles
- Racing cars
- Aircraft
Differences
1. Dry Performance
I’m going to compare the performance of two summer tires as they are the ideal type in dry weather.
I’m taking a look at the Bridgestone Potenza RE-71R vs the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S.
In my evaluation, the Bridgestone Potenza RE-71R earns a dry performance rating of 4.8 out of 5.
It excels in dry traction, grip, cornering, and braking, offering an aggressive and track-worthy driving experience.
On the other hand, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S receives a rating of 4.7 out of 5, showcasing exceptional grip, precise handling, short braking distances, and the endorsement of renowned manufacturers.
Although the Bridgestone Potenza RE-71R slightly edges out the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S, both tires exhibit stellar dry performance.
2. Wet Performance
For the wet performance, I’ll be comparing the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ vs the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4.
In my evaluation of the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ and the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 tires, I would rate the wet performance of the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ slightly higher at 4.6 out of 5.
This tire has been commended for its exceptional wet traction and incorporates features like wide circumferential grooves and lateral notches to effectively expel water, reducing hydroplaning risk.
The Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 also performs well with a rating of 4.4 out of 5, offering good wet traction and grip.
However, considering the slightly better wet performance of the Bridgestone tire, it takes the lead in this aspect.
3. Snow Performance
We all know that you need dedicated winter tires if you’re going to be driving on harsh winter conditions.
That’s why I’ll be comparing the snow performance of two specialized winter tires – Bridgestone Blizzak WS80 vs Michelin X-Ice Xi3.
As the one giving the snow performance rating from 1 to 5, I must state that the Bridgestone Blizzak WS80 receives a snow performance rating of 4.7, while the Michelin X-Ice Xi3 obtains a rating of 4.6.
Both tires exhibit exceptional qualities, with the Bridgestone Blizzak WS80 emphasizing ice braking distance and traction, and the Michelin X-Ice Xi3 excelling in grip, hydroplaning resistance, and long-lasting performance.
Considering their slight difference in ratings, it is safe to declare a tie between these two tires for snow performance.
4. Mileage Warranty and Tread Life
| Bridgestone | Michelin | |
| Treadwear Warranty | up to 80,000 miles tread life warranty | up to 90,000 miles tread life warranty |
| Average Tread Life | Bridgestone tires are generally expected to last anywhere from 45,000 to 80,000 miles. | Michelin tires are designed to last between 45,000 to 85,000 miles on average. |
In terms of mileage warranty, Bridgestone offers up to 80,000 miles of tread life warranty, while Michelin provides up to 90,000 miles.
On average, Bridgestone tires are expected to last between 45,000 to 80,000 miles, whereas Michelin tires are designed to endure between 45,000 to 85,000 miles.
The mileage warranty and average lifespan of Michelin tires seem to be slightly better than those of Bridgestone tires.
5. Prices
In this section, I’ll be taking a look at the price ranges of both tire brands – Bridgestone vs Michelin.
I’ll be using one of the biggest tire and wheel retailers in the US for this comparison – Discount Tire.
Here is a comprehensive table that showcases each brand has to offer:
| Bridgestone | Michelin | |
| Average Price Range (Discount Tire) | $113 to $674 /ea | $112 to $1,160 /ea |
| Cheapest Tire (Discount Tire) | Blizzak WS90 goes from $113 – $269 /ea | X-ICE Snow goes from $112 – $493 /ea |
| Most Expensive Tire (Discount Tire) | Potenza Race goes from $436 – $674 /ea | Pilot Sport 4S goes from $236 – $1,160 /ea |
6. Pros and Cons
Bridgestone
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔ Wide array of choices | ❌ Confusing product lines |
| ✔ Specialized performance tires | |
| ✔ Some of the best warranty options in the tire industry |
Michelin
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔ Probably the most reputed brand in the industry | ❌ Some of their tires can get very expensive |
| ✔ Michelin tires are known for their high quality and durability | |
| ✔ Their tires are equipped with advanced technologies that provide maximum fuel-saving, noise reduction, and performance |
7. Popular Tires
Here are some notable tires from Bridgestone:
- Potenza RE-71R
- Turanza QuietTrack
- DriveGuard
Some of Michelin’s best tires are shown below:
- Pilot Sport 4S
- Defender T+H
- Premier A/S
Which Is the Better Brand Overall?
Based on the evaluation of dry performance, the Bridgestone Potenza RE-71R slightly edges out the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S.
In terms of wet performance, the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ takes the lead with its exceptional traction.
When it comes to snow performance, both the Bridgestone Blizzak WS80 and the Michelin X-Ice Xi3 exhibit outstanding qualities, resulting in a tie.
However, Michelin tires offer a slightly better mileage warranty and average lifespan.
Taking all factors into account, Michelin emerges as the better pick overall.