Tire Size 175/80r13 vs 185/80r13
The tread width is the main difference between 175/80r13 and 185/80r13 tire sizes. The tire size 185/80r13 is about 10 millimeters or 0.39 inches wider than the 175/80r13 tire size. The difference between 175/80r13 and 185/80r13 tire sizes is their dimensions and the subsequent effect these differences have on vehicle performance, aesthetics, and durability.
175/80r13 vs 185/80r13 Table
The table compares the features of tire sizes 185/80R13 and 175/80R13, along with the percentage difference between them.
| Feature | 185/80R13 | 175/80R13 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.65″ | 24.02″ | 0.63 inch |
| Width inches | 7.28″ | 6.89″ | 0.39 inch |
| Circumference | 77.45″ | 75.47″ | 1.98 inch |
| Sidewall Height | 5.83″ | 5.51″ | 0.31 inch |
| Revolutions | 818.06 | 839.51 | 21.45 |
Tire Height
The 185/80r13 tires have a larger overall diameter, measuring 24.65 inches (626.2mm), while the 175/80r13 tires measure 24.02 inches (610.2mm). This difference of 0.63 inches (16mm) equals a 2.6% reduction when moving from the 185/80r13 to the 175/80r13 tire.
The larger diameter of the 185/80r13 tire offers more ground clearance, which is useful for off-road driving or navigating rough terrain. However, it may cause the speedometer to read lower than the actual speed.
Conversely, the smaller 175/80r13 tire reduces ground clearance, potentially leading to vehicle damage over rough roads. Its smaller diameter could cause a higher speedometer reading.
Section Width
The 185/80r13 tire has a greater section width of 7.28 inches (185mm) compared to the 175/80r13 tire’s 6.89 inches (175mm). This 0.39-inch (10mm) difference corresponds to a 5.4% reduction from the wider to the narrower tire.
The wider 185/80r13 tire usually provides improved traction due to a larger contact patch, but it could result in more road noise. On the other hand, the narrower 175/80r13 tire might offer less grip, especially in wet or slippery conditions, but less noise.
Circumference
With a circumference of 77.45 inches (1967.27mm), the 185/80r13 tire outperforms the 175/80r13 tire, which has a circumference of 75.47 inches (1917mm). This difference of 1.98 inches (50.27mm) results in a 2.6% reduction when moving to the smaller tire.
The larger circumference of the 185/80r13 tire may result in lower speedometer readings, while the smaller circumference of the 175/80r13 tire could lead to higher speedometer readings.
Sidewall Height
The 185/80r13 tire boasts a taller sidewall height of 5.83 inches (148mm) compared to the 175/80r13 tire’s 5.51 inches (140mm). This difference of 0.32 inches (8mm) represents a 5.4% decrease when switching to the smaller tire.
The taller sidewall of the 185/80r13 tire absorbs more road irregularities for a smoother ride and improved traction on snowy or icy roads. However, the smaller 175/80r13 tire may give a harsher ride due to reduced cushioning but presents a sportier appearance.
Revolutions Per Mile
The 185/80r13 tire makes fewer revolutions per mile (818.06 RPM) than the 175/80r13 tire (839.51 RPM). This increase of 21.45 RPM corresponds to a 2.6% rise when changing to the smaller tire.
The higher RPM of the 175/80r13 tire may lead to more wear due to increased friction, thereby shortening its lifespan. On the contrary, the 185/80r13 tire’s lower RPM could result in less wear and tear, potentially extending its lifespan.
Wheel Size & Construction Type
Both tires are suitable for a 13-inch wheel and can fit within a rim width range of 4.5-6.0 inches. The “r” in both sizes indicates radial construction, the most common tire construction type. Radial tires are known for their durability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. Regardless of size, both tires benefit from this type of construction.
Fitment Guide
When choosing the correct tire size for your vehicle, it’s important to have accurate information. The tire size 175/80r13 is known to fit the following vehicles:
- Chevrolet Corvair (1960 – 1969)
- Dodge Aries (1984 – 1989)
- Honda Accord (1976 – 1981)
- Mercury Topaz (1983 – 1986)
- MG Maestro (1984 – 1991) and Montego (1984 – 1989)
- Plymouth Reliant (1981 – 1989)
- Pontiac 2000 (1975 – 1980) and Sunbird (1975 – 1985)
- Toyota Lite Ace Noah (1996 – 2001)
On the other hand, the tire size 185/80r13 is suitable for:
- Alpine A310 (1971 – 1974)
- Chevrolet Beretta (1987 – 1989), Celebrity (1982 – 1989), and Corsica (1987 – 1989)
- Pontiac 2000 (1986 – 1987), 6000 (1982 – 1991), Fiero (1984 – 1985), Grand Am (1985 – 1991), Phoenix (1980 – 1984), and Sunbird (1988 – 1994)
Please remember that this guide should be used as a reference, and you should always check with your vehicle’s manufacturer or a tire professional to ensure you have the correct tire size for your specific vehicle and driving needs.
How much taller is a 175/80r13 tire than a 185/80r13?
Based on the data, the height difference between a 175/80R13 tire and a 185/80R13 tire is approximately 0.63 inches or 16 millimeters. The 175/80R13 tire has a height of 24.65 inches (626.2 mm), while the 185/80R13 tire has a height of 24.02 inches (610.2 mm).
Therefore, the 175/80R13 tire is taller by 0.63 inches or 16 millimeters. Additionally, this height difference represents a decrease of 2.6% in comparison to the 185/80R13 tire.
How much wider is a 175/80r13 tire than a 185/80r13?
Based on the given data, the 185/80R13 tire has a width of 7.28 inches (185 mm), while the 175/80R13 tire has a width of 6.89 inches (175 mm).
To determine the difference in width between the two tires, we can subtract the width of the 175/80R13 tire from the width of the 185/80R13 tire: 7.28 inches – 6.89 inches = 0.39 inches. Therefore, the 185/80R13 tire is 0.39 inches wider than the 175/80R13 tire.
Can I use 175/80r13 instead of 185/80r13?
The data you provided states that the difference in overall diameter between the two tire sizes is -0.63 inches (-16 mm), which is around 2.6% of the overall diameter of the 185/80r13 tire.
This means that the 175/80r13 tire is slightly smaller in overall diameter compared to the 185/80r13 tire. Since the difference in diameter is within the recommended 3% range, using a 175/80r13 tire instead of a 185/80r13 tire is generally acceptable.
However, consulting with a tire or vehicle professional is always recommended to ensure compatibility and safety before making any tire size changes.
Can I put a 175/80r13 on a 185/80r13?
Based on the provided data, both the 175/80R13 and 185/80R13 tires have the same rim width range of 13″ x 4.5-6.0″. This means they can both fit on rims with widths ranging from 4.5 to 6.0 inches.
Our Observation
After considering all the differences, we recommend choosing the tire size based on the specific needs of your vehicle and driving conditions. The 185/80r13 tire provides better traction and a smoother ride, making it ideal for off-road use and harsh weather conditions. However, it may lead to a slightly inaccurate speedometer reading and a shorter lifespan due to its larger diameter and width.
On the other hand, the 175/80r13 tire may offer less road noise and extended longevity due to its smaller diameter and width. This tire size might be better suited for standard city or highway driving. It provides a classic look to your vehicle but might have reduced traction and a harsher ride.
Before switching from one tire size to another, consult with a tire or automotive professional. Staying within a 3% difference from the factory-recommended tires is generally recommended. Considering the diameter difference is within this limit, either of these tire sizes could work depending on the specific vehicle and use case.
Meet Caitlin McCormack, a Tire Size Expert and Blogger Passionate About Everything Related to Tires. With Years of Experience in the Tire Industry, Caitlin Has Become an Expert in Tire Sizes and Their Impact on Vehicle Performance.
