Tire Size 265/70r17 vs 235/80r17
Are you in the market for new tires but unsure about the best size for your vehicle? Choosing the right tire size is crucial to ensure optimal performance and safety on the road. In this article, we will compare two popular tire sizes, 265/70r17 and 235/80r17, to help you make an informed decision.
265/70r17 vs 235/80r17 Table
By referring to this comparison table, you can gain a better understanding of the distinctions between tire size 265/70r17 and 235/80r17.
| Feature | 235/80r17 | 265/70r17 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter | 31.8 in | 31.61 in | 0.2 (0.6%) |
| Width | 9.25 in | 10.43 in | 1.18 (12.8%) |
| Circum. | 99.91 in | 99.29 in | 0.62 (0.6%) |
| Sidewall Height | 7.4 in | 7.3 in | 0.1 (1.3%) |
| Revolutions | 634.15 | 638.1 | 3.95 (0.6%) |
Alternative Tire Size of 235/80r17
It’s necessary for replacement tires to have an overall diameter within a 3% range of the original tires.
| Tire Size | Overall Diameter | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 235/75R17 | 30.9″ (784 mm) | -3% |
| 255/70R17 | 31.1″ (790 mm) | -2.2% |
| 275/65R17 | 31.1″ (790 mm) | -2.2% |
| 305/60R17 | 31.4″ (798 mm) | -1.2% |
| 245/75R17 | 31.5″ (800 mm) | -1% |
| 285/65R17 | 31.6″ (802 mm) | -0.7% |
| 265/70R17 | 31.7″ (804 mm) | -0.5% |
| 345/55R17 | 32″ (812 mm) | 0.5% |
| 255/75R17 | 32″ (814 mm) | 0.7% |
| 275/70R17 | 32.2″ (818 mm) | 1.2% |
| 305/65R17 | 32.6″ (828 mm) | 2.5% |
| 285/70R17 | 32.8″ (832 mm) | 3% |
| 235/85R17 | 32.8″ (832 mm) | 3% |
Alternative Tire Size of 265/70r17
The overall diameter of replacement tires needs to fall within 3% of the diameter of the original tires.
| 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 refers to the distance between the ground and the top of the tire. When selecting a tire size, it is essential to consider the overall diameter, as it can impact the speedometer calibration and the stability of your vehicle.
The 265/70r17 tire size has an overall diameter of 31.61 inches, while the 235/80r17 tire size has an overall diameter of 31.8 inches. While the difference may seem minor, selecting a tire size that closely matches the diameter of your original tires to maintain accurate speedometer readings and avoid any potential safety issues is crucial.
Tread Width
Tread width is the distance between the inner and outer edges of the tire’s tread. The 265/70r17 tire size has a tread width of 10.43 inches, while the 235/80r17 tire size has a tread width of 9.25 inches.
A wider tread width can provide better traction and stability, especially in wet or slippery road conditions. However, a wider tread width can also increase the tire’s rolling resistance, leading to lower fuel efficiency.
Rim Diameter
The rim diameter is the measurement from one end of the wheel’s bead seat to the other. The 265/70r17 tire size is designed to fit on a 17-inch rim diameter, while the 235/80r17 tire size is designed to fit on a slightly smaller 16-inch rim diameter. Selecting a tire size that matches the rim diameter specified for your vehicle is crucial to ensure a proper fit and optimal performance.
Sidewall Height
The sidewall height is the distance between the rim’s edge and the tire’s outer edge. The 265/70r17 tire size has a sidewall height of 7.7 inches, while the 235/80r17 tire size has a slightly taller sidewall height of 7.4 inches.
A taller sidewall height can provide better cushioning and protection against potholes and other road hazards. However, a taller sidewall can also lead to more sidewall flex, impacting handling and stability.
Circumference
The circumference and revolutions of a tire can impact speedometer accuracy and fuel efficiency. The 265/70r17 tire size has a circumference of 99.29 inches and makes 638 revolutions per mile, while the 235/80r17 tire size has a circumference of 99.91 inches and makes 634 revolutions per mile. A tire with fewer revolutions per mile can lead to lower fuel efficiency, but it can also provide better acceleration and a smoother ride.
Our Observation
After comparing the two tire sizes, we recommend the 265/70r17 for vehicles that require a larger overall diameter and better fuel efficiency. At the same time, the 235/80r17 is an ideal choice for those who want a wider tread width and taller sidewall height.
However, it is important to note that the optimal tire size for your vehicle depends on several factors, including your driving style, vehicle model, and the driving conditions in your area. We encourage you to consult a tire expert or your vehicle’s owner manual to determine the best tire size for your needs.
