Tire Size 255/65r17 vs 265/70r17
Are you in the market for new tires and unsure of which size to choose? It can be overwhelming to navigate the various options and understand the differences between them. We will compare two popular tire sizes: 255/65R17 and 265/70R17, to help you make an informed decision.
255/65r17 vs 265/70r17 Table
Use this comparison table to gain a better understanding of the distinctions between tire size 255/65R17 and 265/70R17.
| Feature | 255/65R17 | 265/70R17 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter | 30.05 in | 31.61 in | 1.56 (5.2%) |
| Width | 10.04 in | 10.43 in | 0.39 (3.9%) |
| Circum. | 94.41 in | 99.29 in | 4.89 (5.2%) |
| Sidewall Height | 6.53 in | 7.3 in | 0.78 (11.9%) |
| Revolutions | 671.13 in | 638.1 | 33.02 (4.9%) |
Alternative Tire Size 255/65r17
Replacement tires must have an overall diameter that is no more than 3% different from that of the original tires.
| Tire Size | Overall Diameter | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 175/90R17 | 29.4″ (748 mm) | -2.1% |
| 225/70R17 | 29.4″ (748 mm) | -2.1% |
| 265/60R17 | 29.5″ (750 mm) | -1.8% |
| 245/65R17 | 29.5″ (750 mm) | -1.8% |
| 275/60R17 | 30″ (762 mm) | -0.3% |
| 235/70R17 | 30″ (762 mm) | -0.3% |
| 225/75R17 | 30.3″ (770 mm) | 0.8% |
| 285/60R17 | 30.5″ (774 mm) | 1.3% |
| 265/65R17 | 30.6″ (776 mm) | 1.6% |
| 245/70R17 | 30.6″ (776 mm) | 1.6% |
| 235/75R17 | 30.9″ (784 mm) | 2.6% |
Alternative Tire Size 265/70R17
The difference between the overall diameter of the original tires and the replacement tires should not exceed 3%.
| Tire Size | Overall Diameter | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 235/75R17 | 30.9″ (784 mm) | -2.5% |
| 255/70R17 | 31.1″ (790 mm) | -1.7% |
| 275/65R17 | 31.1″ (790 mm) | -1.7% |
| 305/60R17 | 31.4″ (798 mm) | -0.7% |
| 245/75R17 | 31.5″ (800 mm) | -0.5% |
| 285/65R17 | 31.6″ (802 mm) | -0.2% |
| 235/80R17 | 31.8″ (808 mm) | 0.5% |
| 345/55R17 | 32.0″ (812 mm) | 1.0% |
| 255/75R17 | 32.0″ (814 mm) | 1.2% |
| 275/70R17 | 32.2″ (818 mm) | 1.7% |
| 305/65R17 | 32.6″ (828 mm) | 3.0% |
Overall Diameter
The overall diameter of a tire determines how much space it will take up in the wheel well. The 255/65R17 tire has an overall diameter of 30.05 inches, while the 265/70R17 tire has an overall diameter of 31.6 inches. This means the 265/70R17 tire is taller than the 255/65R17 tire by 1.5 inches. The smaller 255/65R17 tire may be a better choice if your vehicle has limited clearance.
Tread Width
The tread width measures the tire’s contact patch, which is part of the tire that comes in contact with the road. The 265/70R17 tire has a wider tread width than the 255/65R17 tire, which means it may provide better traction and handling on certain surfaces. However, a wider tread width can also increase the risk of hydroplaning on wet roads.
Rim Diameter
The rim diameter is the size of the wheel that the tire is mounted on. Both the 255/65R17 and 265/70R17 tires are designed to fit on 17-inch rims.
Sidewall Height
The sidewall height is the distance between the rim and the tread of the tire. The 265/70R17 tire has a taller sidewall height than the 255/65R17 tire, which may provide a smoother ride on rough roads. However, a taller sidewall can also increase the risk of sidewall flexing and punctures.
Circumference
The circumference of a tire is the distance around the tire, while the number of revolutions is the number of times the tire rotates in one mile. The 265/70R17 tire has a larger circumference and fewer revolutions per mile than the 255/65R17 tire.
This can affect your vehicle’s speedometer reading and fuel economy. A larger circumference can also cause the speedometer to read lower than the actual speed, which can result in a speeding ticket.
Our Observation
We observed that the 265/70R17 tire is a better option for off-road and heavy-duty vehicles requiring more ground clearance and handling. The wider tread width and taller overall diameter provide better traction and handling in rugged terrain. On the other hand, the 255/65R17 tire is more suitable for everyday driving, as it provides a smoother ride and better fuel economy.
Deciding between the 255/65R17 and 265/70R17 tire sizes depends on your needs and preferences. Consider factors such as vehicle clearance, driving conditions, and performance requirements before deciding. We hope that this comparison has helped you make a more informed choice in your tire selection process.
