Tire Size 225/75r16 vs 235/85r16

The 235/85r16 tire is slightly wider and taller, which gives it a larger diameter. This means the 235/85r16 tire will have a slightly higher speed rating and provide a smoother ride. However, the 235/85r16 tire will also have a slightly larger footprint, which can reduce fuel economy.

225/75r16 vs 235/85r16 Table

This comparison table will help you understand the main differences between 225 75r16 and 235 85r16 tires.

Specification 235/85r16 225/75r16 Difference
Diameter 31.73″ 29.29″ 2.44 inches
Width 9.25″ 8.86″ 0.39 inches)
Circumference 99.68″ 92.01″ 7.67 inches
Sidewall Height 7.86″ 6.64′ 1.22 inches
Revolutions 635.65 688.63 52.98 

Alternative Tire Size For 235/85r16
To ensure compatibility, it is recommended that replacement tires have an overall diameter within 3% of the original tire’s diameter.

Tire Size Overall Diameter Difference
235/80R16 30.8″ (782 mm) -3%
345/55R16 30.9″ (786 mm) -2.5%
225/85R16 31″ (788 mm) -2.2%
295/65R16 31.1″ (790 mm) -2%
275/70R16 31.2″ (792 mm) -1.7%
265/75R16 31.7″ (804 mm) -0.2%
285/70R16 31.7″ (806 mm) 0%
225/90R16 32″ (812 mm) 0.7%
375/55R16 32.2″ (818 mm) 1.5%
265/80R16 32.7″ (830 mm) 3%

Alternative Tire Size For 225/75r16
A suitable replacement tire must have an overall diameter that is no more than 3% different from the original tire’s diameter.

Tire Size Overall Diameter Difference
225/70R16 28.4″ (722 mm) -3%
265/60R16 28.5″ (724 mm) -2.7%
215/75R16 28.7″ (728 mm) -2.2%
275/60R16 29″ (736 mm) -1.1%
235/70R16 29″ (736 mm) -1.1%
255/65R16 29.1″ (738 mm) -0.8%
225/70R17 29.4″ (748 mm) 0.5%
285/60R16 29.4″ (748 mm) 0.5%
215/80R16 29.5″ (750 mm) 0.8%
245/70R16 29.5″ (750 mm) 0.8%
315/55R16 29.6″ (752 mm) 1.1%
247/70R16 29.6″ (752 mm) 1.1%
235/75R16 29.8″ (758 mm) 1.9%
255/70R16 30.1″ (764 mm) 2.7%
275/65R16 30.1″ (764 mm) 2.7%

Overall Diameter
In comparing the 225/75R16 and the 235/85R16, the latter has a larger diameter (31.73 inches), providing approximately 7.7% more ground clearance compared to the 225/75R16, which has a diameter of 29.29 inches.

This extra clearance can be advantageous for off-road driving or navigating rough terrains. However, increasing tire diameter may result in a lower speedometer reading, which could potentially lead to underestimating your actual speed.

Section Width
The 235/85R16 has a wider tread (9.25 inches), providing improved traction due to an approximately 4.3% larger contact area with the road. This can enhance vehicle control during acceleration, braking, and cornering, albeit possibly generating more road noise.

Conversely, the 225/75R16 has a narrower width (8.86 inches), reducing the surface area in contact with the road and potentially diminishing grip, especially in slippery conditions.

Circumference
Circumference affects speedometer readings, similar to diameter. A larger circumference corresponds to a lower speedometer reading and vice versa.
The 235/85R16, with its larger circumference (99.68 inches), will give a lower speedometer reading than the 225/75R16, which has 92.01 inches.

Sidewall Height
The 235/85R16 tire has a taller sidewall (7.86 inches) than the 225/75R16 (6.64 inches). A taller sidewall typically results in a smoother ride as it absorbs more road bumps and irregularities.

It also provides increased traction on snowy or icy roads. However, a shorter sidewall, like the 225/75R16, gives the vehicle a sportier look, albeit potentially leading to a harsher ride due to the reduced cushioning effect.

Revolutions Per Mile
The 225/75R16 makes more revolutions per mile (688.63 RPM), which means it may wear out faster due to increased friction with the road surface. On the other hand, the 235/85R16 makes fewer revolutions per mile (635.65 RPM), potentially extending its lifespan by reducing wear and tear.

Rim Size
Both tires can be mounted on a 16″ rim, maintaining similar visual appeal. However, the 235/85R16’s rim width range is slightly narrower (6.0-7.0″) than the 225/75R16 (6.0-7.5″). A wider rim can give the car a sportier look, while a narrower rim can provide a more classic appearance.

Construction Type
As suggested by the ‘R’ in their specifications, both the 225/75R16 and the 235/85R16 use radial construction. Radial tires offer better fuel efficiency, ride comfort, and longevity than their bias-ply counterparts, making them a popular choice for many drivers.

How much taller is a 235/85r16 tire than a 225/75r16?

The height of a 235/85R16 tire is approximately 31.73 inches (or 805.9 mm). Comparatively, the height of a 225/75R16 tire is approximately 29.29 inches (or 743.9 mm). So, the 235/85R16 tire is about 2.44 inches (or 62 mm) taller than the 225/75R16 tire.

How much wider is a 235/85r16 tire than a 225/75r16?

In terms of width, a 235/85R16 tire measures about 9.25 inches (or 235 mm), while a 225/75R16 tire measures about 8.86 inches (or 225 mm). Therefore, the 235/85R16 tire is approximately 0.39 inches (or 10 mm) wider than the 225/75R16 tire.

Can I use 235/85r16 instead of 225/75r16?

When considering overall diameter, the 235/85R16 tire has a diameter of about 31.73 inches (or 805.9 mm), and the 225/75R16 tire has a diameter of 29.29 inches (or 743.9 mm). The difference between these two is approximately 2.44 inches or about 7.7%.

Given that this is more than the 3% difference that is typically recommended. Using a 235/85R16 tire instead of a 225/75R16 is not recommended without consulting a tire or vehicle professional.

Can I put a 235/85Rr16 on a 225/75r16?

The 235/85R16 tire has a recommended rim width range of 6.0-7.0″, while the 225/75R16 tire has a suggested range of 6.0-7.5″. Since these ranges overlap, it’s possible that a 235/85R16 tire could be mounted on a rim meant for a 225/75R16.

Our Observation
While the 225/75R16 and 235/85R16 have advantages, the right choice depends on your specific needs and driving conditions. If you often drive off-road or on rough terrains, the 235/85R16’s larger diameter, wider section width, and taller sidewall might be beneficial.

However, if you prioritize a smoother ride and longer tire life, the 225/75R16 may be a better option. Consider manufacturer recommendations, as changing tire sizes can affect vehicle handling and safety.

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