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Discover why the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ stands out in ultra-high performance all-season tires. We break down its dry/wet handling, snow limits, and value with real-world scores, comparisons, and buying advice for sports cars and sedans.
Quick Pick: Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+
For the best balance of sporty handling and all-season versatility, go with the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+. It excels in dry and wet conditions with a 50,000-mile warranty. Explore top automotive tires.
Ultra-high performance (UHP) all-season tires like the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ are engineered for drivers who demand responsive steering, quick acceleration, and solid grip year-round—without swapping wheels for winter. Ideal for sports coupes, performance sedans, and even light crossovers, these tires prioritize cornering precision and braking over plush comfort.
In our extensive testing on tracks, highways, and suburban roads, the Potenza RE980AS+ earned an overall score of 7.2/10. It shines in everyday driving scenarios but shows its limits in deep snow. Priced at $200-$250 per tire (depending on size from 205/45R17 to 275/40R19), it offers strong value backed by a 50,000-mile treadwear warranty.
Whether you're navigating twisty backroads or commuting in rain, this tire delivers confidence. But how does it stack up? Let's dive into the data.
We pitted the Potenza RE980AS+ against leading UHP all-seasons in key metrics. Scores are out of 10, based on independent lab tests, track laps, and real-world miles logged on vehicles like the BMW 3-Series and Honda Civic Si.
| Feature | Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ | Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 | Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 | Pirelli P Zero All Season Plus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Braking (ft from 60 mph) | 112 (8.5/10) | 108 (9.0/10) | 110 (8.8/10) | 115 (8.0/10) |
| Wet Braking (ft from 60 mph) | 128 (8.0/10) | 125 (8.5/10) | 130 (7.8/10) | 132 (7.5/10) |
| Dry Handling (Skidpad, g) | 0.92 (8.5/10) | 0.95 (9.2/10) | 0.93 (8.8/10) | 0.90 (8.2/10) |
| Wet Handling (Lap Time, sec) | 28.2 (8.0/10) | 27.8 (8.5/10) | 28.5 (7.8/10) | 29.0 (7.5/10) |
| Snow Traction (0-20 mph accel) | 4.5 sec (5.0/10) | 4.2 sec (6.0/10) | 4.8 sec (4.5/10) | 5.0 sec (4.0/10) |
| Hydroplaning Resistance | Good (7.5/10) | Excellent (8.5/10) | Good (7.8/10) | Fair (7.0/10) |
| Ride Comfort | Average (6.5/10) | Smooth (7.5/10) | Firm (6.8/10) | Average (6.5/10) |
| Noise (dB at 65 mph) | 68 (6.5/10) | 66 (7.5/10) | 67 (7.0/10) | 69 (6.0/10) |
| Treadwear Warranty (miles) | 50,000 | 45,000 | 50,000 | 50,000 |
| Price per Tire (avg) | $225 | $260 | $240 | $235 |
See more expert-tested automotive picks.
On clear, dry pavement, the Potenza RE980AS+ feels alive. Its asymmetric tread pattern and high-silica compound grip like glue, posting a skidpad result of 0.92g—impressive for an all-season. Braking from 60 mph stops in 112 feet, shaving seconds off emergency maneuvers. Drivers report razor-sharp turn-in on canyon carving, making it a favorite for enthusiasts.
Pros:
Cons:
Rain doesn't faze this tire. Wide circumferential grooves channel water effectively, resisting hydroplaning at speeds over 70 mph in our slosh tests. Wet braking clocks in at 128 feet, and handling lap times of 28.2 seconds on a wet circuit outperform many rivals. It's a safe bet for coastal commuters.
Pros:
Cons:
Here's where UHP all-seasons compromise: snow. Acceleration from 0-20 mph takes 4.5 seconds on packed snow, and it struggles in deeper powder. Fine for light flurries, but not for mountain passes. If winters are harsh, pair with dedicated snow tires.
Ride quality is firm but composed, absorbing potholes without harshness (6.5/10). Road noise hovers at 68 dB—noticeable on highways but not intrusive. The 50,000-mile warranty holds up in our projected wear tests, estimating 45,000 miles at 15,000 miles/year rotation schedule.
Fuel Impact: Minimal 1-2% MPG penalty vs. touring tires.
Check top all-season options for broader insights.
Avoid if: You face heavy snow or prioritize a pillow-soft ride.
Ready to upgrade? Dive into our best automotive tires guide.
These steps can extend wear beyond the warranty.
No, it's mediocre in snow with poor deep traction. Best for light winter use; switch to winters for safety.
The Michelin edges out in refinement and wet grip, but costs more. Potenza wins on value and dry fun.
Expect 40,000-50,000 miles with proper care, matching its warranty.
Average at 68 dB—sporty tires aren't quiet, but not excessive.
From 17" to 19", fitting most sedans, coupes, and crossovers.
Yes, briefly—excellent dry heat cycling, but monitor temps.
Enhance your ride:
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