Tire Size 275/65r20 vs 35×12.50r20
The primary contrast between the tire sizes 275/65r20 and 35×12.50R20 is in the section width. The 35×12.50R20 tire size is about 1.69 inches wider than the 275/65r20 tire size.
Fitment Guide
Replacement tires should be within 3% of the original tire’s overall diameter to avoid issues. The 35×12.50R20 is 2.8% larger in overall diameter than the 275/65R20. So it will not require modifications like a lift kit to fit correctly and prevent rubbing.
Ground Clearance
The 35×12.50R20 provides 0.95 inches (24mm) more ground clearance due to its larger diameter.
This improves off-road capability and helps avoid scrapes over obstacles. However, the larger size causes a 2.7% lower speedometer reading.
Gas Mileage
The wider 35×12.50R20 has more rolling resistance, reducing gas mileage compared to the 275/65R20. The 35’s extra 1.69 inches of width increases friction and drag. Their heavier weight also increases fuel consumption.
Ride Comfort
While the 275/65R20 offers a smooth highway ride, the 35×12.50R20’s additional sidewall height absorbs bumps better. Its 7.51-inch sidewall cushions impact off-road for a more comfortable ride over rugged terrain.
Aesthetics
Subjectively, the 35×12.50R20 looks more aggressive than the 275/65R20. Its bulging width and sidewall evoke a rugged, off-road style. However, the 275/65R20 maintains a sleeker on-road aesthetic.
Handling & Stability
The 275/65R20 provides quicker steering response and handling due to a shorter sidewall and smaller contact patch. But the 35×12.50R20 offers stability through wider traction and heavier weight.
Noise & Vibration
The 35×12.50R20 runs quieter as its flexible sidewall absorbs road noise. But its aggressive tread likely generates louder noise patterns. The 275/65R20 transmits more vibration through its stiffer sidewall.
Durability & Wear
The narrower 275/65R20 exhibits even treadwear and potentially longer life. The heavier 35×12.50R20 endures more impact, but its width causes uneven wear. It also stresses suspension components.
Adverse Conditions
The narrow 275/65R20 cuts through the snow for better winter traction. But the 35×12.50R20’s size provides superior traction in mud, rocks, and sand. Its extra ground clearance also helps in adverse conditions.
Speedometer Reading
At 20 mph actual speed, the 275/65R20 reads 20 mph on the speedometer. But the larger 35×12.50R20 reads 20.56 mph, a 2.7% increase. Drivers must account for this discrepancy by reducing displayed speed.
Are 275 Tires The Same As 35?
No, 275 tires are not the same as 35, as they are two different tire sizes. The number 275 in the tire size refers to the tire’s width, while the number 35 refers to the tire’s diameter.
Therefore, two tires cannot be considered the same if their widths or diameters are different.
Can I Use 275/65R20 Instead of 35×12.50R20?
Yes, you can use 275/65r20 tires instead of 35×12.50R20 tires. These two tire sizes have a diameter difference of 2.8%, which is within the recommended 3% limit for interchangeability.
As there is only a 0.95-inch (24.1 mm) difference in overall diameter, the impact on the vehicle’s gearing, speedometer reading, and handling characteristics should be minimal.
What Does 275/65r20 Mean?
The tire size 275/65R20 indicates key specifications. The “275” represents the tire width in millimeters, “65” is the aspect ratio (height to width), and “20” is the wheel diameter in inches.
In this case, the tire is 275 mm wide, the sidewall height is 65% of the width, and it fits a 20-inch wheel. The tire size 275/65r20 is approximately equal to 34.1×10.8R20 in inches.
What Does 35×12.50R20 Mean?
The tire size 35×12.50R20 signifies specific characteristics. The “35” represents the tire diameter in inches. The “12.50” is the tire’s width in inches.
The “R” indicates radial construction, a common type. Finally, “20” denotes the wheel diameter in inches. Equating to 35×12.50R20 in inches, the tire size 315/60r20 shares similar dimensions.
How Much Taller Is A 35×12.50R20 Tire Than A 275/65r20?
The 35×12.50R20 tire is 0.95 inches (2.8%) taller than the 275/65r20. The 35×12.50R20 tire size is about 35 inches tall, while the 275/65r20 tire size is 34.07 inches tall.
The diameter difference of 0.95 inches (24.1 mm) affects the overall height, indicating that the 35×12.50R20 tire has a slightly greater height than the 275/65r20.
How Much Wider Is A 35×12.50R20 Tire Than A 275/65r20?
The 35×12.50R20 tire is 1.69 inches (15.6%) wider than the 275/65r20. The tire size 35×12.50R20 is approximately 12.52 inches wide, whereas the tire size 275/65r20 is about 10.83 inches wide.
With a width difference of 1.69 inches (43 mm), the 35×12.50R20 tire provides a broader footprint than the 275/65r20.
What Size Rim For 275/65r20?
The 275/65r20 tire size can fit a rim with a diameter of 20 inches and a width range of 7.5-9.5 inches. It is important to note that the actual width of the tire may vary slightly depending on the brand.
What Size Rim For 35×12.50R20?
The 35×12.50R20 tire size is typically mounted on a 20-inch rim with a width range of 8.5 to 11 inches. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended wheel width range for the specific tire to ensure proper fit and performance.
Our Observation
The 275/65R20 is best suited for on-road use, providing responsive handling, even treadwear, and improved fuel efficiency.
The 35×12.50R20 maximizes off-road performance with added ground clearance, stability, and traction through larger size and tread.
For mixed on and off-road use, we recommend the 275/65R20 for its balance of capable on and off-road handling, improved durability, and smoother on-road ride. The 35×12.50R20 is ideal for dedicated off-road use where extreme clearance and traction are needed.
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.