Tire Size 275/65r18 vs 265/65r18
The main difference between tire sizes 265/65r18 and 275/65r18 lies in the section width. Specifically, the 275/65r18 is 3.8% wider than the 265/65r18, measuring 10.83 inches across versus 10.43 inches.
This slightly broader tread results in a larger contact patch and more overall tire volume. However, the overall diameter increase is minor at just 1.6%, ensuring comparable sizes.
Fitment Guide
The 275/65r18 is only 3.8% wider and 1.6% taller in overall diameter than the 265/65r18. This is well within the 3% sizing difference limit for direct replacement without adjustments. Either tire can directly substitute the other without fitment issues.
Ground Clearance
With a 1.6% larger diameter, the 275/65r18 provides 0.51 inches (13mm) extra ground clearance over the 265/65r18.
This modest clearance gain gives a slight advantage in driving over obstacles, gravel, or uneven terrain by reducing underbody scrapes. However, the larger 275 size also causes a 1.6% lower speedometer reading.
Gas Mileage
Thanks to a smaller contact patch and lighter weight, the 265/65r18 confers better fuel efficiency than the 275/65r18.
Reduced rolling resistance and rotational mass improve gas mileage, an important consideration for daily drivers.
Ride Comfort
The 275/65r18’s taller sidewall cushioning absorbs impacts better than the 265/65r18, providing a smoother ride over harsh bumps and uneven pavement.
This explains its popularity for trucks and SUVs regularly driving on unpaved roads. On smooth highways, though, the 265/65r18 gives a more responsive, agile feel.
Aesthetics
Visually, the difference between these sizes is subtle. The 275/65r18’s taller sidewall has a slightly “stretched” look compared to the shorter 265/65r18. This taller profile aesthetically suits trucks and SUVs well.
Handling & Stability
The 265/65r18’s shorter sidewall enables crisper steering response and handling agility on pavement versus the taller 275/65r18. But both deliver responsive, stable handling for normal driving conditions.
Noise & Vibration
Expect slightly more road noise and vibration from the 265/65r18 as its stiff sidewall transmits more harshness into the cabin.
The 275/65r18 better dampens noise thanks to more sidewall flex. Either tire provides a comfortable, quiet enough ride however.
Durability & Wear
The 265/65r18 wears more evenly with a smaller contact patch and exhibits longer tread life than the larger 275/65r18. But durability differences are minor between these very comparable sizes.
Adverse Conditions
Performance in rain, snow, and off-road is very similar between the two. The 275/65r18’s extra ground clearance is a slight advantage off-road, while the 265/65r18’s shorter sidewall aids responsiveness on slippery roads. Both handle adverse conditions very capably.
Speedometer Difference
The speedometer reading is slightly higher with 275/65r18 tires than 265/65r18 tires. At an actual vehicle speed of 20 mph, the speedometer reads 20 mph for 275/65r18 tires.
For 265/65r18 tires, the speedometer reading is 19.68 mph at the same actual speed. The difference in speedometer reading between these two tire sizes is 0.32 mph.
Will 275/65r18 Fit 265/65r18?
Yes, the 275/65r18 tire is compatible with the 265/65r18, as the diameter difference is only 1.6%, well within the recommended 3% limit.
Ensure the load capacity of the new tire meets or exceeds that of the original for optimal performance and safety.
How Much Taller Is A 275/65r18 Tire Than 265/65r18?
A 275/65r18 tire is 0.51 inches (13 mm) taller than a 265/65r18 tire, representing a 1.6% increase in diameter. The specific height of a 275/65r18 tire is 32.07 inches (814.7 mm), while a 265/65r18 tire stands at 31.56 inches (801.7 mm) tall.
How Much Wider Is A 275/65r18 Tire Than A 265/65r18?
A 275/65r18 tire is 0.39 inches (10 mm) wider than a 265/65r18 tire, representing a 3.6% increase in width. The specific width of a 275/65r18 tire is 10.83 inches (275 mm), while a 265/65r18 tire measures 10.43 inches (265 mm) wide.
What Does 275/65r18 Mean?
The tire size 275/65r18 denotes a tire with a width of 275 millimeters, an aspect ratio of 65 (indicating the sidewall height is 65% of the width), and an 18-inch rim diameter.
This specification provides essential information for selecting compatible replacement tires for a vehicle. In terms of measurement, the tire size of 275/65R18 is equivalent to 32.1×10.8R18 in inches.
What Does 265/65r18 Mean?
The tire size 265/65r18 specifies a tire with a width of 265 millimeters, an aspect ratio of 65 (indicating the sidewall height is 65% of the width), and an 18-inch rim diameter.
This numerical code provides essential information for selecting compatible tires for a vehicle. The measurement of a tire marked as 265/65R18 is equivalent to 31.5×10.4R18 in inches.
Our Observation
After comparing these two great tire options, I’m leaning toward recommending the 265/65R18 for most drivers. Its crisper handling, improved fuel economy, and potentially longer tread life are advantages I find appealing for daily commuting and highway driving.
While the 275/65R18 provides more cushioning and ground clearance, those benefits do not outweigh the 265’s strengths for typical on-road use.
However, I can undoubtedly see drivers preferring the more rugged personality and looks of the 275 for larger trucks and SUVs that frequently go off-road.
In the end, I’d suggest the 265/65R18 for sedans and crossovers, while trucks and SUVs may benefit more from the 275’s capabilities. Both are great, but the 265 gets my personal nod for best overall tire.
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.