Tire Size 255/70r16 vs 265/70r16
Are you considering switching from 255/70R16 to 265/70R16 tires? While the difference in size may seem small, it can have a noticeable impact on your vehicle’s performance, both on and off the road.
- Increased tire width by 0.39 inches (10 mm) improves traction and stability
- Slightly larger tire diameter of 0.55 inches (14 mm) enhances ground clearance
- Minimal impact on speedometer accuracy, with a difference of only 0.37 mph at 20 mph
- Potential for a firmer ride and slightly reduced fuel efficiency due to wider tires
- Improved off-road performance and durability with larger tire size
255/70r16 vs 265/70r16 Table
The main difference between the 255/70r16 and 265/70r16 tires is the section width. The 265/70r16 tire is 10mm (0.39 inches) wider than the 255/70r16, making it 3.9% wider.
Fitment Guide
In this case, the diameter difference between 255/70R16 and 265/70R16 tires is 1.8%, which falls within the acceptable 3% range.
This means that switching from 255/70R16 to 265/70R16 tires is generally safe and shouldn’t require any modifications to your vehicle.
On-Road Impact
Switching to wider 265/70R16 tires can have several effects on your vehicle’s on-road performance. Let’s explore some of the key aspects:
- Ride Comfort: The wider tires may slightly reduce ride comfort due to the increased contact patch with the road surface, which can lead to a firmer ride.
- Fuel Efficiency: The wider tires have a larger contact area with the road, which can result in increased rolling resistance. This may lead to a slight decrease in fuel efficiency, typically around 1-2%.
- Handling: The wider tires provide a larger contact patch, which can enhance cornering stability and overall handling. However, the difference may be subtle and not noticeable to all drivers.
- Speedometer Accuracy: The 1.8% difference in tire diameter will cause a slight discrepancy in speedometer readings. At 20 mph (32.19 km/h), the actual speed will be 20.37 mph (32.78 km/h). This difference is minimal and unlikely to cause any significant issues.
Off-Road Impact
If you frequently take your vehicle off-road, switching to 265/70R16 tires can offer some benefits:
- Ground Clearance: The slightly larger diameter of the 265/70R16 tires will increase ground clearance by approximately 0.28 inches (7 mm). This can be beneficial when navigating rough terrain or obstacles.
- Traction: The wider tires provide a larger contact area with the ground, which can improve traction on loose surfaces like sand, gravel, or mud.
- Durability: Wider tires generally have a larger air volume, which can help absorb impacts and reduce the risk of punctures or damage when driving off-road.
What is the Difference Between 255/70R16 and 265/70R16?
The main difference between 255/70R16 and 265/70R16 tires lies in their width. The 265/70R16 tire is 0.39 inches (10 mm) wider than the 255/70R16 tire.
This increased width results in a larger contact patch with the road surface, which can improve traction, stability, and overall performance, especially in off-road conditions.
Can I Use 265/70R16 Instead of 255/70R16?
Yes, you can use 265/70R16 tires instead of 255/70R16 tires. The overall diameter difference between these two tire sizes is approximately 0.55 inches (14 mm) or 1.8%, which falls within the generally accepted 3% difference range.
This means that switching from 255/70R16 to 265/70R16 tires should not cause any significant issues with vehicle handling, speedometer accuracy, or clearance.
How Much Taller Is a 265/70R16 Tire Than a 255/70R16?
A 265/70R16 tire is approximately 0.55 inches (14 mm) taller than a 255/70R16 tire. The overall diameter of the 265/70R16 tire is 30.61 inches (777.4 mm), while the 255/70R16 tire has a diameter of 30.06 inches (763.4 mm).
This difference in height equates to about a 1.8% increase in tire diameter when switching from 255/70R16 to 265/70R16 tires.
How Much Wider is a 265/70R16 Tire Than a 255/70R16?
A 265/70R16 tire is 0.39 inches (10 mm) wider than a 255/70R16 tire. The width of the 265/70R16 tire is 10.43 inches (265 mm), while the width of the 255/70R16 tire is 10.04 inches (255 mm).
This difference in width represents a 3.9% increase when moving from 255/70R16 to 265/70R16 tires.
Our Observation
Switching from 255/70R16 to 265/70R16 tires offers several benefits, particularly for off-road driving. The wider tires provide improved traction, increased ground clearance, and enhanced durability.
On the road, the differences are less pronounced, with a slight reduction in ride comfort and fuel efficiency, and a minimal impact on handling and speedometer accuracy.
Overall, if you prioritize off-road performance and the on-road trade-offs are acceptable to you, switching to 265/70R16 tires can be a worthwhile choice.
However, if you primarily drive on paved roads and value comfort and fuel efficiency, sticking with 255/70R16 tires may be the better option.
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.