Would you ever compare a Toyota to a Honda? Of course you would. They’re both known as manufacturers of incredibly reliable and efficient transportation devices. But would you compare a Honda Accord to a Toyota Yaris?
Lets try:
… oh wait, we should note that these are two completely different types of vehicles that compete in totally different classes and draw completely different customers.
Image courtesy of http://www.tirerack.com
Why then, does Michelin think it’s okay to compare it’s highest end tire, the Hydroedge, against Goodyear’s midrange tire, the Assurance, in its latest advertisements? Not only that, but they don’t even stay consistent with their comparisons. In the wet braking comparison they compare the tire to the ComforTred, which doesn’t compete directly with the Hydroedge. The ComforTred is aimed at high end luxury cars that don’t require high speed ratings or fantastic handling, both things the Hydroedge admittedly provides but rather a soft, quiet, insulated ride. Later on they mention that the tire lasts up to 33,000 miles longer than the Assurance product line. Think for a moment, how can one tire last longer than an entire line? They must be averaging the numbers… let’s try:
(65000 (Assurance) + 80000 (ComforTred) + 80000 (TripleTred) ) / 3 = 75000
90000 – 75000 = 15000
Nope… lets see if they’re comparing the Assurance to the Hyrdoedge:
90000 – 65000 = 25000
The real competitor, the Goodyear Assurance TripleTred. Image courtesy of http://www.tirerack.com
Nope… well I’m stumped… it’s obvious that it lasts longer (based on the Limited Treadlife Warranty) however they’ve somehow inflated the numbers in their favor. I believe an unbiased view should be used in this comparison to really see how consumers feel. Tire Rack always has great reviews… and I do believe the linked chart shows the Goodyear TripleTred ranking higher than the Hydroedge according to consumers’ opinions. Point being: numbers are great, but opinions and first-hand accounts are much, much better.
Michelin, keep working the math in your favor. I’m sure someone will blindly buy your product without doing their research first… I mean, it’s a lot of work to search for answers, right?
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