Tire Size 225/70r15 vs 235/75r15
Regarding replacing your vehicle’s tires, you may decide between 225/70R15 and 235/75R15 sizes. While both fit 15-inch wheels, they have key differences that can impact performance. Here’s an overview of how these two popular tire sizes compare.
| / | R |
| / | R |
| Parameter | 235/35 R18 | 205/40 R18 | Differ. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tire Height | |||
| Section Width | |||
| Circumference | |||
| Sidewall Height | |||
| Revolutions | |||
| Rim Size |
Fitment
The 235/75r15 is about 5.4% larger in overall diameter and width than the 225/70r15.
Replacement tires should be within 3% of the original size, so the 235 may require modifications like a lift kit to fit some vehicles designed for a 225 tire properly. Ensure proper fitment before purchasing.
Ground Clearance
The larger 235 tire provides 1.48 inches more ground clearance thanks to its taller sidewall and overall diameter.
This clearance improves off-road driving by reducing scrapes over obstacles. However, the larger diameter causes a lower speedometer reading than the 225.
Gas Mileage
The slightly smaller 225 tire has a smaller contact patch and lower rotational mass, improving fuel efficiency crucial for daily driving and long trips.
The larger 235 may reduce efficiency through increased rolling resistance and weight.
Ride Comfort
While the 225 offers a smoother highway ride, the 235’s taller sidewall cushions impact better, providing superior comfort on rough terrain.
An extra 0.74 inches of sidewall flex absorbs bumps and cracks far better than the shorter 225.
Aesthetics
The 225 promotes aerodynamics, while the 235 has a brawnier, “stretched” look. The subtly taller 235 suits the rugged aesthetic well for trucks and SUVs. However, on sports cars, the 225 maintains a tightly fitted appearance.
Handling & Stability
The 225’s shorter sidewall enhances responsiveness for performance driving on pavement. In off-road conditions, the 235’s added flex provides improved traction and stability through uneven terrain.
Noise & Vibration
With a stiff sidewall, the 225 transmits more vibrations into the cabin. The 235’s flexible sidewall dampens vibrations and noise far better, contributing to a more comfortable ride.
Durability & Wear
The 225 exhibits more even tread wear and marginally longer life. The heavier 235 can introduce additional drivetrain wear over time despite its impact absorption.
Adverse Condition
The narrower 225 sometimes cuts through to the pavement more effectively in snow and ice. The wider 235 excels in muddy and specific off-road conditions where the extra traction and ground clearance help.
Speedometer Reading
At the same true speed, the 225 reads 0.66 mph higher on the speedometer than the larger diameter 235. This variance slightly impacts perceived vehicle speed.
Alternative For 235/75r15
Several alternative tire sizes are available to consider for the 235/65r16 tire size. The following table displays the overall diameter and the difference in diameter for some of the most popular alternative tire sizes.
| Tire Size | Overall Diameter | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 255/65R15 | 28.1″ (713 mm) | -2.7% |
| 225/75R15 | 28.3″ (719 mm) | -1.9% |
| 245/70R15 | 28.5″ (725 mm) | -1.1% |
| 215/80R15 | 28.5″ (725 mm) | -1.1% |
| 295/60R15 | 28.9″ (735 mm) | 0.3% |
| 255/70R15 | 29.1″ (739 mm) | 0.8% |
| 225/80R15 | 29.2″ (741 mm) | 1.1% |
| 215/85R15 | 29.4″ (747 mm) | 1.9% |
| 245/75R15 | 29.5″ (749 mm) | 2.2% |
| 205/90R15 | 29.6″ (751 mm) | 2.5% |
| 265/70R15 | 29.6″ (753 mm) | 2.7% |
Alternative For 225/70r15
Here is a table that shows the overall diameter and the difference in diameter for the most popular alternative tire sizes for the 225/70r15 tire size.
| Tire Size | Overall Diameter | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 185/80R15 | 26.7″ (677 mm) | -2.9% |
| 295/50R15 | 26.7″ (677 mm) | -2.9% |
| 215/70R15 | 26.9″ (683 mm) | -2.0% |
| 275/55R15 | 26.9″ (683 mm) | -2.0% |
| 235/65R15 | 27.0″ (687 mm) | -1.4% |
| 305/50R15 | 27.0″ (687 mm) | -1.4% |
| 255/60R15 | 27.0″ (687 mm) | -1.4% |
| 205/75R15 | 27.1″ (689 mm) | -1.1% |
| 195/80R15 | 27.3″ (693 mm) | -0.6% |
| 245/65R15 | 27.5″ (699 mm) | 0.3% |
| 265/60R15 | 27.5″ (699 mm) | 0.3% |
| 295/55R15 | 27.8″ (705 mm) | 1.1% |
| 325/50R15 | 27.8″ (707 mm) | 1.4% |
| 275/60R15 | 28.0″ (711 mm) | 2.0% |
| 235/70R15 | 28.0″ (711 mm) | 2.0% |
| 255/65R15 | 28.1″ (713 mm) | 2.3% |
Can I use 235/75r15 instead of 225/70r15?
In this case, the overall diameter of the 235/75r15 tire is 28.88 inches (733.5 mm). In comparison, the 225/70r15 tire has an overall diameter of 27.4 inches (696 mm).
The difference is approximately 1.48 inches or 37.5 mm, translating to about 5.4%. As this exceeds the advised 3% difference, it would generally not be recommended to use a 235/75r15 tire instead of a 225/70r15.
Can I put a 235/75r15 on a 225/70r15?
The recommended rim width range for a 235/75r15 tire is between 6.0 and 8.0 inches. In contrast, the recommended range for a 225/70r15 tire is between 6.0 and 7.5 inches. Given that the ranges overlap, it could be possible to mount a 235/75r15 on a rim typically used for a 225/70r15.
Our Observation
Based on the comparisons, the 235/75R15 is ideal for vehicles frequently driven off-road or on rough terrain due to its added ground clearance, cushioned ride, and improved stability.
For smooth highway driving, commuting, or performance applications, the 225/70R15 is likely the better choice thanks to its responsive handling, even wear, and fuel efficiency.
However, for most light trucks and SUVs that encounter a mix of on and off-road driving, we recommend the 235/75R15 for its versatility, capability, and comfortable ride quality in varied conditions.
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.
