Tire Size 275/70r16 vs 265/75r16
The main difference between the 275/70r16 and 265/75r16 tires is their overall diameter. The 275/70r16 is slightly larger, with a difference of 0.49 inches (12.5 mm) compared to the 265/75r16.
| / | R |
| / | R |
| Parameter | 235/35 R18 | 205/40 R18 | Differ. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tire Height | |||
| Section Width | |||
| Circumference | |||
| Sidewall Height | |||
| Revolutions | |||
| Rim Size |
Fitment Guide
The 275/70R16 tire has an overall diameter of 31.16 inches and a width of 10.83 inches. The 265/75R16 is 31.65 inches in diameter and 10.43 inches wide.
The diameter is only 0.49 inches larger for the 265/75R16, which is within the 3% limit for replacement tires. Both should fit most vehicles designed for 16-inch wheels without any modifications needed.
Ground Clearance
With a diameter 0.49 inches taller, the 265/75R16 provides slightly more ground clearance than the 275/70R16.
This can help prevent scrapes and damage when driving over obstacles or rough terrain. However, the difference is small, and both tires offer good ground clearance.
Gas Mileage
The narrower 265/75R16 has a more minor contact patch, which can reduce rolling resistance slightly compared to the wider 275/70R16.
This may translate into marginally better fuel efficiency, though the difference is minor. Both are fuel-efficient highway tires suitable for good gas mileage.
Ride Comfort
The 275/70R16’s shorter, 70 aspect ratio sidewall is a little stiffer and transmits more road impacts into the cabin than the softer 75 aspect ratio sidewall of the 265/75R16.
However, both absorb bumps reasonably well. Comfort levels are similar for most drivers.
Aesthetics
The 265/75R16’s taller sidewall visually provides a subtly “stretched” look compared to the 275/70R16. This taller sidewall suits trucks and SUVs well aesthetically. However, the difference is quite subtle, and both look attractive on most vehicles.
Handling & Stability
With a shorter, stiffer sidewall, the 275/70R16 offers slightly sharper handling response and cornering precision. The 265/75R16’s taller sidewall flexes more, reducing handling agility somewhat. However, both provide responsive, stable handling for everyday driving.
Noise & Vibration
The 275/70R16 transmits a bit more road noise and vibration into the cabin due to its stiffer sidewall. However, both tires are quiet and smooth-riding for their category. Cabin noise and vibration levels are low in either case.
Durability & Wear
With proper maintenance and rotation, both tire sizes exhibit even treadwear and good durability. The 275/70R16’s stiff sidewalls may help marginally with tread life. But both should deliver long service life for highway use.
Adverse Conditions
Performance in rain, snow, and light off-road use is comparable. The 265/75R16 provides a touch more traction in deep snow due to the taller sidewall.
The 275/70R16 handles slightly better on wet roads. But both perform well in adverse conditions overall.
Speedometer Reading
At an actual vehicle speed of 20 mph, the speedometer reading is slightly higher with 265/75r16 tires compared to 275/70r16 tires.
Specifically, the speedometer indicates 20.32 mph with the 265 tires and 20.00 mph with the 275. This 0.32 mph difference is attributable to the larger diameter of the 265 tires.
While drivers may notice a minor increase in indicated speed with the 265, the discrepancy between these tire sizes is relatively small overall.
Can You Use 275/70r16 Instead of 265/75r16?
Using 275/70r16 instead of 265/75r16 results in a 1.6% larger diameter. Generally, it’s recommended to stay within a 3% difference.
While this falls within the advised range, consider the load capacity as well. Ensure the replacement tire meets or exceeds the original tire’s load capacity for safe usage.
275/70r16 vs 265/75r16
Here’s a comparison table that will let you quickly grasp the differences.
How Much Taller Is A 265/75r16 Tire Than A 275/70r16?
The 265/75r16 tire is 0.49 inches (12.5 mm) taller than the 275/70r16 tire. The 265/75r16 tire has a height of 31.65 inches (803.9 mm), while the 275/70r16 tire has a height of 31.16 inches (791.4 mm).
How Much Wider Is A 315/70r17 Tire Than A 295/70r17?
The 315/70r17 tire is wider than the 295/70r17 tire by 0.39 inches or 10 millimeters. The 315/70r17 tire has a width of 12.44 inches or 316 mm, which is 3.6% wider than the 295/70r17 tire, which has a width of 12.05 inches or 306 mm.
What Does 315/70r17 Mean?
The “315/70r17” tire size denotes a width of 315 millimeters, a sidewall height that is 70% of the width, and it is designed for a 17-inch wheel.
This alphanumeric code provides key dimensions for proper fitting on vehicles. In inches, the 315/70r17 tire size is synonymous with 34.4×12.4R17.
What Does 295/70r17 Mean?
The tire size “295/70r17” signifies a tire with a width of 295 millimeters, a sidewall height that is 70% of the width, and it is designed to fit a 17-inch wheel. The 295/70R17 tire size is equal to 33.3×11.6R17 in inches.
Our Observation
Based on the comparisons above, the 265/75R16 is best suited for vehicles requiring maximum ground clearance and light off-road use, thanks to its slightly taller sidewall.
The 275/70R16 is optimal for vehicles where responsive handling and maximum dry pavement grip are priorities. Both tires are excellent options for most drivers focused on highway use, fuel efficiency, comfort, and overall versatility.
However, the 275/70R16’s stiffer sidewall gives it a slight edge for sportier on-road driving dynamics. The 275/70R16 is recommended as the best tire size for typical drivers not requiring specialized off-road capabilities.
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.
