Tire Size 275/60r20 vs 275/65r20
The main difference between tire sizes 275/60r20 and 275/65r20 lies in the aspect ratio, represented by the second set of numbers. Overall, the 275/65r20 provides a slightly cushier ride while the 275/60r20 favors responsive handling.
Fitment Guide
The new set should be within 3% of the original size’s overall diameter when replacing tires. Going beyond this can require modifications to prevent rubbing or other fitment issues.
The 275/65r20 is 3.3% larger in diameter than the 275/60r20, so it may need adaptations on some vehicles.
Ground Clearance
The 275/65r20 provides 1.08 inches (27mm) more ground clearance with its taller 34.07 inch diameter.
This is advantageous for off-roading, clearing obstacles, or rough terrain without scraping or damage. However, the larger diameter causes a lower speedometer reading.
Conversely, the 275/60r20’s shorter 32.99-inch diameter reduces ground clearance. This makes scraping or hitting obstacles more likely but gives a higher speedometer reading.
Gas Mileage
With less rotational mass and a slightly smaller contact patch, the 275/60r20 confers better fuel efficiency over the heavier, larger 275/65r20.
Minimizing rolling resistance and rotational weight is crucial for daily drivers focused on the economy.
Ride Comfort
The 275/65r20’s extra sidewall cushioning absorbs bumps and cracks better than the 275/60r20. Its 7.04-inch sidewall dampens impacts versus the 275/60r20’s 6.5-inch.
This difference is modest but noticeable on very uneven roads where the added give smooths out the ride.
Aesthetics
Visually, the difference between these sizes is subtle. The 275/65r20 will have a slightly taller sidewall, giving a modest “stretched” look compared to the 275/60r20.
This aesthetic suits some vehicles like trucks and SUVs better than an overly low-profile appearance.
Handling & Stability
With a shorter sidewall, the 275/60r20 provides sharper, more responsive handling and cornering.
The 275/65r20’s extra sidewall flex reduces handling precision slightly. However, both deliver stable, controlled handling for most drivers.
Noise & Vibration
The 275/60r20’s stiff sidewall transmits more road noise and vibration into the cabin. Meanwhile, the 275/65r20’s cushioning absorbs noise and vibration better. However, both are relatively quiet and smooth on most road surfaces.
Durability & Wear
The 275/60r20’s smaller size and contact patch promote more even treadwear and potentially extended life.
The larger 275/65r20 endures more impact, but its added weight contributes to more wear on suspension and driveline components.
Adverse Conditions
In snow or ice, the narrower 275/60r20 can cut through to the pavement more effectively. The wider 275/65r20 provides better traction in specific off-road or muddy conditions. Both handle rain and snow well overall.
Speedometer Difference
When traveling at an actual speed of 20 mph, the speedometer reading is 0.34 mph higher for 275/65r20 tires compared to 275/60r20 tires. This difference of 0.34 mph is due to the slightly larger overall diameter of the 275/65r20 tires.
Because of the diameter difference, the speedometer will read higher across all speeds for the 275/65r20 tires versus the 275/60r20 tires. Overall, the variation in speedometer accuracy between these two tire sizes is relatively small.
Will 275/65r20 Fit 275/60r20?
No, using 275/65r20 tires instead of 275/60r20 is not advisable due to a diameter difference of 3.3%, exceeding the recommended 3% limit.
This variance can affect speedometer accuracy and handling. Maintaining a diameter within the advised range is crucial to ensure proper vehicle performance and safety.
How Much Taller Is A 275/65r20 Tire Than 275/60r20?
The 275/65r20 tire is 1.08 inches (27.5 mm) taller than the 275/60r20, representing a 3.3% increase in diameter.
Let’s take a look at the difference between a 275/60r20 tire that stands at 32.99 inches (838mm) and a 275/65r20 tire that measures 34.07 inches (865.5mm) in height.
What Does 275/65r20 Mean?
The tire size 275/65r20 refers to a tire with a width of 275 millimeters, an aspect ratio of 65 (indicating the height is 65% of the width), and is designed to fit a 20-inch wheel diameter. The tire size 275/65r20 is equivalent to 34.1×10.8R20 in inches.
What Does 275/60r20 Mean?
The tire size 275/60r20 indicates a tire width of 275 millimeters, an aspect ratio (height to width ratio) of 60%, and a 20-inch rim diameter. Regarding inches, 33×10.8R20 can be used interchangeably with the tire size 275/60r20.
What Size Rim For 275/60r20?
For a tire size of 275/60r20, the recommended rim size is 20 inches in diameter with a width range of 7.5 to 9.5 inches.
What Size Rim For 275/65r20?
For a 275/65r20 tire, the recommended rim size is 20 inches in diameter with a width range of 7.0 to 9.5 inches.
Our Observation
Based on the comparisons above, the 275/60R20 is likely the best all-around choice for most drivers. Its shorter sidewall promotes responsive handling and efficiency without major ride comfort compromises.
While the 275/65R20’s extra cushioning has merits for off-road use, the 275/60R20 strikes the ideal balance of performance, economy, and aesthetics for daily street driving.
With its nimbler feel and lower rolling resistance, the 275/60R20 gets my nod as the best pick for typical road conditions.
However, I’d consider the 275/65R20’s benefits for specific off-road or rough terrain applications where extra compliance and ground clearance can be advantageous. I recommend the 275/60R20 tire size for a responsive yet comfortable daily driver.
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.