Tire Size 215/45R17 vs 225/45R17
The main difference between tire sizes 215/45r17 and 225/45r17 is the width. The 225/45r17 tire is wider by 0.39 inches (10 mm), a 4.7% increase compared to the 215/45r17 tire. This increase in width can result in better traction and stability, but it might also affect the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and steering response.
215/45r17 vs 225/45r17
The table compares the features of tire sizes 215/45R17 and 225/45R17, along with the percentage difference between them.
| Feature | 215/45r17 | 225/45r17 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter inches | 24.62″ | 24.97″ | 0.35 (9) |
| Width inches | 8.46″ | 8.86″ | 0.39 (10) |
| Circumference | 77.34″ | 78.45″ | 1.11 (28.27) |
| Sidewall Height | 3.81″ | 3.99″ | 0.18 (4.5) |
| Revolutions | 819.24 | 807.61 | 11.62 (-7.22) |
| Rim Size | 17″ | 17″ | Same |
| Rim Width Range | 7.0-8.0″ | 7.0-8.5″ | Different |
Overall Diameter
The 225/45R17 tire has a larger diameter (24.97 inches) compared to the 215/45R17 (24.62 inches). This 1.4% difference translates into a slight increase in ground clearance, which can be beneficial for off-road driving or navigating over obstacles and rough terrains. However, the increased tire height means a lower speedometer reading, which could affect your driving speeds and fuel economy.
On the other hand, the smaller diameter of the 215/45R17 may reduce the chances of scraping or damaging your vehicle, especially when driving over obstacles. However, its shorter stature could result in higher speedometer readings.
Tread Width
The 225/45R17 has a wider section width (8.86 inches) than the 215/45R17 (8.46 inches), offering a 4.7% increase in tread contact area. This extra width may enhance traction, improving acceleration, braking, and cornering abilities, although it may also produce more road noise due to the larger contact area.
Conversely, the 215/45R17’s narrower tread width means there’s less surface area in contact with the road, which could lead to a reduction in grip, particularly in wet or slippery conditions.
Sidewall Height
With a 4.7% higher sidewall height, the 225/45R17 tire (3.99 inches) offers a slightly smoother ride compared to the 215/45R17 (3.81 inches). The taller sidewall can absorb more road bumps and irregularities, increasing comfort while driving. Moreover, taller sidewalls can increase traction on snowy or icy roads, enhancing the tire’s ability to grip the surface.
The shorter sidewall height of the 215/45R17 might deliver a harsher ride, due to a reduced buffering capacity. However, this might appeal to drivers seeking a sportier and more aggressive look, as smaller sidewalls typically evoke this style.
Circumference
The 225/45R17 tire features a larger circumference (78.45 inches) than the 215/45R17 tire (77.34 inches), which can result in lower speedometer readings. However, the increased circumference could enhance stability and ride comfort, particularly at high speeds.
The smaller circumference of the 215/45R17 could lead to higher speedometer readings, potentially affecting the perceived speed and fuel efficiency.
Revolutions per Mile
The 225/45R17 tire experiences fewer revolutions per mile (807.61) than the 215/45R17 (819.24). Fewer revolutions mean the tire covers a greater distance per rotation, potentially extending its lifespan by reducing wear and tear. This reduced wear could translate to cost savings over the tire’s lifetime.
The 215/45R17, with more revolutions per mile, may experience increased friction with the road, which could lead to a shorter lifespan due to higher wear.
Rim Size
Both tires fit on a 17″ rim size, but the 225/45R17 can accommodate a slightly wider rim width range (7.0-8.5″) compared to the 215/45R17 (7.0-8.0″). The wider rims associated with the 225/45R17 can provide a sportier look, while the 215/45R17 might offer a more classic appearance due to the narrower rim width range.
How much taller is a 225/45R17 tire than a 215/45r17?
The height of a 215/45R17 tire measures 24.62 inches (625.3 mm). On the other hand, a 225/45R17 tire has a height of 24.97 inches (634.3 mm). This makes the 225/45R17 tire about 0.35 inches (or 9 mm) taller than its 215/45R17 counterpart, representing an increase of 1.4%.
How much wider is a 225/45R17 tire than a 215/45r17?
For width, the 215/45r17 tire comes in at 8.46 inches (215 mm) wide, whereas the 225/45R17 tire is wider at 8.86 inches (225 mm). So, the 225/45R17 tire is wider by approximately 0.39 inches (or 10 mm), corresponding to a 4.7% increase in width over the 215/45r17 tire.
Can I use 225/45R17 instead of 215/45r17?
The 215/45r17 tire has an overall diameter of 24.62 inches (625.3 mm), and the 225/45R17 tire has a diameter of 24.97 inches (634.3 mm). The difference in diameter between these two tire sizes is around 0.35 inches (or 9 mm), equating to a 1.4% difference.
Since this is less than the recommended maximum difference of 3%, using a 225/45R17 tire instead of a 215/45r17 should be possible.
Can I put a 225/45R17 on a 215/45r17?
The question of whether you can mount a 225/45R17 tire on a 215/45r17 largely depends on the rim width range. The recommended rim width range for the 215/45r17 tire is 7.0-8.0 inches, while for the 225/45R17 tire, the range is slightly wider, between 7.0-8.5 inches.
Given these specifications, it should be possible to mount a 225/45R17 tire on a rim designed for a 215/45r17, as long as the rim width is within the specified range.
Our Observation
Both the 225/45R17 and 215/45R17 tires offer unique benefits and trade-offs. If you prioritize better traction, a smoother ride, and longer tire lifespan, the 225/45R17 might be a better choice.
However, if you seek a tire that reduces the chances of vehicle damage on rough terrain, and prefer a sportier aesthetic, the 215/45R17 could be your pick. Ultimately, the choice between these two tire sizes depends on your specific driving conditions, style preferences, and comfort needs.
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