Tire Size 275/65r20 vs 33×12.50r20
The main difference between 275/65r20 and 33×12.50r20 tires is the section width. The 33×12.50r20 tire size is about 1.69 inches wider than the 275/65r20 tire size.
This 15.6% wider tread makes the 33×12.50r20 more stable with better traction, but the narrower 275/65r20 is more agile and fuel-efficient.
| / | R |
| / | R |
| Parameter | 235/35 R18 | 205/40 R18 | Differ. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tire Height | |||
| Section Width | |||
| Circumference | |||
| Sidewall Height | |||
| Revolutions | |||
| Rim Size |
Fitment Guide
When replacing tires, staying within 3% of the original size’s overall diameter is recommended. The 33×12.50r20 is 2.9% larger in overall diameter than the 275/65r20.
This may require adaptations like a lift kit to prevent rubbing at complete turn. The 33×12.50r20 is near the limit for direct replacement, so lifting the suspension slightly would enable fitment without rubbing or scraping.
Ground Clearance
The larger 33×12.50r20 tire provides 1.05 inches (26.8mm) more ground clearance than the 275/65r20. This added clearance is useful for off-roading by protecting components from scrapes or impacts with obstacles.
However, the bigger diameter causes a lower speedometer reading. The smaller 275/65r20 reduces ground clearance, raising the risk of damage from road hazards, but gives a higher speedometer reading.
Gas Mileage
The narrower 275/65r20 tire typically provides better fuel economy with less rolling resistance and rotational mass than the wider 33×12.50r20.
This makes the 275/65r20 preferable for daily driving focused on efficiency. The wider 33×12.50r20 is heavier, creating more drag, so it will reduce gas mileage but offer more excellent traction and stability.
Ride Comfort
The 33×12.50r20 taller sidewall and greater air volume absorb bumps and impact more smoothly for a comfortable off-road ride.
But the 275/65r20 shorter sidewall and tread react quicker on paved roads for responsive handling. Overall comfort levels are similar between the two.
Aesthetics
Visually, the 275/65r20 has a slightly lower profile and stretched look compared to the 33×12.50r20 marginally taller sidewall.
Subjectively, the taller 33×12.50r20 suits the aesthetic of trucks and SUVs better than an overly low-profile tire. However, the 275/65r20 contributes better to aerodynamic efficiency.
Handling & Stability
The 275/65r20 shorter sidewall enables precise, responsive steering and handling on pavement.
In contrast, the 33×12.50r20 flexing sidewall reduces handling sharpness a bit but provides extra stability and traction off-road or on loose surfaces. Both offer stable handling within their intended usage.
Noise & Vibration
With its stiff sidewall, the 275/65r20 transmits more road noise and vibration into the cabin.
The 33×12.50r20 dampens vibrations better with its thicker sidewall, but its aggressive tread produces some road noise. Overall, both provide relatively quiet, comfortable rides.
Durability & Wear
The 275/65r20 more minor contact patch and lighter weight should allow for even treadwear and long life.
The heavier 33×12.50r20 endures more impact and stress, which could mean more wear on suspension parts. But its thicker tread resists cuts and punctures well.
Adverse Conditions
In rain or snow, the narrower 275/65r20 can cut through to the pavement better, while the wider 33×12.50r20 provides more traction through deep mud or sand.
The 33×12.50r20’s extra ground clearance aids off-road mobility too. Both handle adverse conditions relatively well.
Speedometer Reading
At an actual speed of 20 mph, the speedometer reads 19.38 mph for the 33×12.50r20 tire compared to 20 mph for the 275/65r20.
This 3.2% speedometer difference is because the larger diameter of the 33×12.50r20 causes a slightly slower rotational speed.
What Does 275/65r20 Tire Mean?
The 275/65r20 tire size means that the tire is 275 mm wide and has a sidewall height of 165 mm. The second number, 65, is the aspect ratio. This means that the sidewall height is 65% of the tire’s width.
The 20 in size means that the rim diameter is 20 inches. The “R” in the size means that it is a radial tire. In inches, the tire size 275/65r20 is equal to 34.1×10.8R20.
How Much Bigger Is A 33 Inch Tire Than A 275?
The 275/65r20 tire is 1.05 inches (26.78 mm) taller than a 33×12.50R20 tire. The overall height of a 275/65r20 tire is 34.07 inches (865.5 mm) versus the 33×12.50R20 tire size, which comes in around 33.02 inches (838.72 mm) in total height.
This represents a 3.1% difference in overall diameter between the two tire sizes, with the 275/65r20 being slightly taller.
Is A 275/65r20 A 33 Inch Tire?
No, a 275/65r20 tire is not a 33-inch tire. According to our calculation, the 275/65r20 tire is 1.05 inches larger than a 33/12.5r20 tire, which has a diameter of 33 inches.
How Much Wider Is A 33×12.50r20 Tire Than A 275/65r20?
The 33×12.50r20 tire is 1.69 inches (43 mm) wider than a 275/65r20 tire. The 33×12.50r20 tire is about 12.52 inches (318mm) wide, and the 275/65r20 tire has a width of 10.83 inches (275mm).
This is a 15.6% difference in width between the two tire sizes, with the 33×12.50r20 being significantly wider.
What Size Rim Fits A 33×12.50r20?
The 33×12.50R20 tire fits a wheel with a diameter of 20 inches and a rim width range of 8.5-11 inches. This means that the ideal rim size for a 33×12.50R20 tire is 20″ x 8.5-11″.
It is crucial to follow the recommended rim width range in order to guarantee that the tire fits properly and performs well.
What Size Rim Fits A 275/65r20?
The 275/65r20 tire fits a wheel with a diameter of 20 inches and a rim width range of 7.5-9.5 inches. Therefore, the recommended rim size for a 275/65r20 tire is 20″ x 7.5-9.5″.
It’s important to follow the recommended rim width range to ensure proper fit and performance of the tire.
275/65r20 vs 33×12.50r20
This table is designed to help you quickly compare and understand the differences.
Our Observation
The key distinctions between 275/65r20 and 33×12.50r20 tires come down to size. The wider 33×12.50r20 provides stability and traction off-road, while the narrower 275/65r20 is more fuel-efficient with responsive handling on pavement.
By understanding how these sizes differ, drivers can select the right tire to suit their vehicle’s purpose.
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.
