Tire Size 215/55r17 vs 225/55r17

The main difference between tire sizes 215/55R17 and 225/55R17 lies in their width. The 225/55R17 tire is wider by 0.39 inches (10mm), providing a potentially increased contact patch with the road. This could enhance grip, stability, and braking performance.

Tire 1 Front View
Width
Dia.
Tire 2 Front View
Width
Dia.
Tire 1 Side View
Tire 1 Wheel
circumference 1
Circ.
Rim
Wall
Revs/Mile
Tire 2 Side View
Tire 2 Wheel
Circ.
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Wall
Revs/Mile
/ R
/ R
Parameter 235/35 R18 205/40 R18 Differ.
Tire Height
Section Width
Circumference
Sidewall Height
Revolutions
Rim Size

 

Fitment Guide

The 225/55r17 width is 1.6% broader than the 215/55r17. This minor size difference falls well within the 3% limit for direct replacement without modifications.

Both widths should properly fit the same vehicles without clearance or fitment problems. Owners can safely transition between these sizes if needed.

Gas Mileage

The narrower 215/55r17 tire has a smaller contact patch, which reduces rolling resistance compared to the 225/55r17.

This can translate into slightly better fuel efficiency, making the 215 widths advantageous for commuters focused on eking out every mile per gallon.

Ground Clearance

With identical diameters, ground clearance is unaffected going between these sizes. Ride height remains identical. Vehicle owners need not modify or lift their suspension to achieve adequate clearance.

Ride Comfort

The 225/55r17’s wider tread face cushions impacts slightly better. But both widths utilize the same 55 aspect ratio sidewall, so differences are subtle. Either width provides comfortable ride quality for a low-profile 17” tire.

Speedometer Difference

Despite having little difference in overall diameter, the 225’s higher revolutions per mile cause a 0.33 mph increase in speedometer reading when travelling at an actual 20 mph. This negligible difference has essentially no impact on real-world driving.

Aesthetics

Visually differentiating the two widths is difficult unless viewed side-by-side. The 225 appears subtly broader whereas the 215 seems just a touch more stretched. Subjectively, the wider 225 suits sportier coupes better while the 215 has a classier look.

Handling & Stability

The 215’s narrower tread face provides sharper turn-in response and handling precision. But the more expansive 225 offers incrementally better cornering grip and stability at the limit. For most drivers, any handling differences are imperceptible. Both deliver responsive, agile handling.

215 55r17 in inches

Noise & Vibration

Identical diameters and aspect ratios mean noise and vibration levels are nearly equal. Both transmit some road impacts through their short sidewalls.

The 225 dampens roughness slightly better courtesy of its broader tread face. Overall NVH levels are low for both.

Durability & Wear

With more rubber meeting the road, the 225 wears slightly faster on the outer shoulders. But tread life difference is negligible at best. Owners can expect comparable durability and longevity from either width.

Adverse Conditions

Performance in rain, snow and light off-roading is comparable. The narrower 215 cuts through powder and slush efficiently.

Yet the 225’s extra width enhances snow and mud traction. Both widths work well across varying conditions.

How Much Taller Is A 225 Tire Than A 215?

The height of a 225/55r17 tire is 26.74 inches (679.3 mm), while a 215/55r17 tire is 26.31 inches (668.3 mm). Therefore, the 225/55r17 tire is approximately 0.43 inches (or 11 mm) taller than the 215/55r17 tire.

Tire Size 21555r17 in inches

How Much Wider Is A 225 Than A 215 Tire?

Regarding the width, a 225/55r17 tire measures 8.86 inches (225 mm), and a 215/55r17 tire is 8.46 inches (215 mm) wide. Consequently, the 225/55r17 tire is about 0.39 inches (or 10 mm) wider than the 215/55r17 tire.

Can I Use 225/55r17 Instead Of 215/55r17?

Yes, you can use 225/55R17 tires instead of 215/55R17 tires. The overall diameter of a 225/55r17 tire is 26.74 inches, and the 215/55r17 tire has an overall diameter of 26.31 inches. The difference between these two tire sizes is roughly 0.43 inches or about 1.6%.

As this is within the acceptable 3% difference, using a 225/55r17 tire instead of a 215/55r17 tire seems plausible. However, it is still advisable to consult with a tire or vehicle expert before making such replacements to ensure optimal safety and performance.

Can I put a 225/55r17 on a 215/55r17?

Both the 225/55r17 and 215/55r17 tires can be fitted on rims within the range of 6.0-7.5″ and 6.0-8.0″ respectively.

Therefore, replacing a 215/55r17 tire with a 225/55r17 on the same rim is possible, As the rim width falls within the acceptable range for both tires.

What Does 215/55r17 Mean?

The tire size “215/55R17” defines several important dimensions and characteristics. The first number, 215, refers to the tire’s width in millimeters.

The second number, 55, is the aspect ratio that represents the height of the tire’s sidewall, expressed as a percentage of the tire’s width.

The letter “R” denotes a radial tire construction, which is a popular design in the market. Lastly, the number 17 indicates the wheel diameter in inches that the tire is designed to fit. Expressing the tire dimensions in inches, the size 215/55R17 is synonymous with 26.3×8.5R17.

What Does 225/55r17 Mean?

The tire size 225/55R17 can be converted to inches, which is equivalent to 26.8×8.9R17. The tire size “225/55R17” denotes a tire with a width of 225 millimeters, a sidewall height of 55% of the width, radial construction (R), and designed to fit a 17-inch wheel.

How Tall Are 225/55r17 Tires?

The 225/55r17 tires have an overall diameter of approximately 26.74 inches (679.3 mm). This measurement refers to the outer height of the mounted tire from the bottom of the rim to the topmost tread. So, a 225/55R17 tire stands about 26.74 inches tall when mounted adequately.

215/55r17 vs 225/55r17

How Tall Are 215/55r17 Tires?

The 215/55R17 tires have a height or diameter of approximately 26.74 inches (679.3 mm), measured from one side of the tire to the other, passing through the center. Keep in mind that actual dimensions may vary slightly depending on the tire brand and model.

225/55r17 vs 215/55r17

This comparison table will help you understand the differences between the two sizes.

Our Observation
The minor differences between 215/55r17 and 225/55r17 tires mean that both options are highly capable. The 215 offers subtle benefits for fuel economy, while the 225 provides slightly improved handling and braking.

But for most vehicles, these attributes are considered equivalent. Owners seeking enhanced aesthetics and sportier visuals may prefer the 225 widths.

Yet all use cases benefit from the comfort, durability and versatile performance shared by both sizes. Ultimately, with such small trade-offs between them, the choice comes down to individual preference rather than a clear leader. Either width is an equally excellent choice.

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