Tire Size 255/70r17 vs 285/70r17
Are you considering swapping out your 305/70R16 tires for a set of 285/75R16? While the two sizes are very similar, there are some key differences to be aware of before making the switch. We’ll break down what you need to know to decide if 285/75R16 tires are the right fit for your vehicle.
- 285/75R16 tires are 0.79 inches (20 mm) narrower than 305/70R16
- Ride may be slightly firmer due to reduced air volume in narrower tires
- Minor improvement in fuel efficiency due to decreased rolling resistance
- Virtually no change in ground clearance or durability in off-road conditions
255/70r17 vs 285/70r17
Here’s a comparison table that will help you easily understand the differences between the options.
Fitment Guide
When replacing tires, the new tires should be within 3% of the original tire’s overall diameter to avoid clearance issues or speedometer errors.
The 285/70r17 is 5.3% larger in overall diameter than the 255/70r17, so it may require modifications like a suspension lift to fit appropriately and prevent rubbing at complete turn.
Larger tires, like the 285/70r17, may need more room to fit without scraping or rubbing.
Ground Clearance
The 285/70r17 provides 1.65 inches (42mm) more ground clearance than the 255/70r17, which is beneficial for off-road driving over rough terrain.
However, the larger diameter causes a lower speedometer reading. The 255/70r17 has less clearance, increasing risks of scraping, but gives a higher speedometer reading.
Gas Mileage
The 285/70r17 larger size and heavier weight results in slightly worse gas mileage than the 255/70r17.
The 255/70r17 smaller contact patch and lower rotational mass improve fuel efficiency, which is ideal for daily driving.’s
Ride Comfort
The 255/70r17 offers a slightly firmer, sportier ride, while the 285/70r17 provides more cushioning and impact absorption from its taller sidewall.
This makes the 285/70r17 more comfortable over very uneven roads or rugged terrain.
Aesthetics
Visually, the 285/70r17 has a modestly taller sidewall than the 255/70r17, giving it a slightly more aggressive, off-road look.
The 255/70r17 has a lower profile appearance that some prefer for a sportier look.
Handling & Stability
The 255/70r17 provides crisper handling and steering response on pavement due to its shorter, stiffer sidewall.
The 285/70r17 flexible sidewall reduces handling precision slightly but offers better stability off-road.
Noise & Vibration
Due to its stiff sidewall, the 255/70r17 transmits more road noise and vibration. The 285/70r17 dampens noise and vibration better through its additional air volume and sidewall flex. However, both are relatively quiet and smooth.
Durability & Wear
The 255/70r17 exhibits slightly more even treadwear and a marginally longer lifespan. The heavier 285/70r17 causes more wear on vehicle components, but its larger size can better withstand impacts.
Adverse Conditions
The narrower 255/70r17 in snow may cut through to the pavement more effectively.
The wider 285/70r17 provides better traction in muddy or loose dirt conditions. Both perform well in rain, snow, and off-road.
Speedometer Difference
Due to its larger overall diameter, the 285/70r17 causes the speedometer to read slightly higher than the actual speed compared to the 255/70r17.
At 20 mph actual speed, the 285/70r17 reads 21.06 mph while the 255/70r17 reads 20 mph.
How Much Bigger Is A 285 Tire Than A 255?
The 285/70R17 tire is approximately 1.65 inches (42 mm) bigger in diameter than the 255/70R17 tire . This difference in tire diameter also results in a 5.0% to 5.1% variance in the speedometer reading.
What is the Main Difference Between 305/70r16 and 285/75r16?
The primary difference is that 285/75R16 tires are 0.79 inches (20 mm) narrower than 305/70R16 tires. The overall diameters are nearly identical, differing by just 0.1%.
Can I Use 285/75r16 Instead of 305/70r16?
Yes, 285/75R16 tires are generally a suitable replacement for 305/70R16 tires. The 0.1% diameter difference is well within the typically acceptable range of +/-3%.
How Much Taller is a 285/75r16 Tire Than a 305/70r16?
285/75R16 tires are just 0.02 inches (0.5 mm) taller than 305/70R16 tires, a difference of only 0.1%. This height difference is negligible in practical terms.
How Much Wider is a 305/70r16 Tire Than a 285/75r16?
305/70R16 tires are 0.79 inches (20 mm) wider than 285/75R16 tires. This is the most significant dimensional difference between these two tire sizes.
Our Observation
Regarding comparing 255/70r17 vs 285/70r17 tires, the 285/70r17 is better suited for off-roading and rugged terrain with its added ground clearance, cushioned ride, and improved traction.
However, the 255/70r17 is ideal for street driving thanks to its responsive handling, even treadwear, and fuel efficiency.
Though differences are modest between 255/70r17 vs 285/70r17, we’d recommend the 285/70r17 for truck or SUV owners who frequently go off-road.
For commuter vehicles and street driving, the 255/70r17 is likely the better choice for its blend of ride comfort, longevity, and efficiency. Select tires based on your intended driving 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.