Tire Size 275/70r17 vs 265/70r17
The main difference between tire sizes 265/70r17 and 275/70r17 lies in the section width. The tire size 275/70r17 is 10 millimeters wider than the 265/70r17 tire size.
Specifically, the 265/70r17 has a section width of 10.43 inches (265mm) while the 275/70r17 is 10.83 inches (275mm) wide, making it 0.39 inches (10mm) wider, a 3.8% increase in section width.
275/70r17 vs 265/70r17
| 265/70R17 | 275/70R17 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Tire Height 31.61″ | Tire Height 32.16″ | 0.55 inch |
| Tread Width 10.43″ | Tread Width 10.83″ | 0.39 inch |
| Circum. inch 99.29″ | Circum. inch 101.03″ | 1.73 inch |
| Sidewall Height 7.3″ | Sidewall Height 7.58″ | 0.28 inch |
| Revolutions per mile 638 | Revolutions per mile 627 | -10.94 |
| Radial Tire | Radial Tire | No Difference |
| Rim Size 17 inches | Rim Size 17 inches | No Difference |
Fitment Guide
When replacing tires, the new set should be within 3% of the overall diameter of the originals to avoid issues with speedometer accuracy or fitting in the wheel wells.
The 275/70r17 is 1.7% larger in overall diameter than the 265/70r17, so it meets the 3% limit for direct replacement on most vehicles. However, some vehicles with very tight tolerances may require a maximum of a 1% diameter difference.
Ground Clearance
With a 1.7% larger diameter, the 275/70r17 provides 0.55 inches (14mm) more ground clearance than the 265/70r17.
This extra clearance is useful for off-road driving, clearing obstacles, and reducing the risk of scrapes and damage. However, the larger diameter also causes a 1.7% lower speedometer reading.
Gas Mileage
The 275/70r17’s slightly larger contact patch and heavier weight can reduce fuel efficiency compared to the 265/70r17.
With less rolling resistance and rotational mass, the 265/70r17 may provide slightly better gas mileage, an important factor for daily drivers.
Ride Comfort
The taller sidewall and greater air volume of the 275/70r17 help absorb impacts from bumps and uneven pavement.
This cushions the ride, especially over very rough roads. However, the difference in ride comfort is modest between the two sizes.
Aesthetics
Visually, the difference between these sizes is minor. The 275/70r17 will have a slightly taller sidewall, giving it a subtly “stretched” look compared to the 265/70r17. This aesthetic can suit some trucks and SUVs better than a lower-profile tire.
Handling & Stability
The shorter sidewall and smaller diameter of the 265/70r17 provide slightly quicker steering response and handling. But both sizes deliver responsive, stable handling for everyday driving conditions.
Noise & Vibration
With its shorter, stiffer sidewall, the 265/70r17 transmits more road noise and vibration into the cabin. The 275/70r17’s extra sidewall flex helps dampen vibrations for a smoother, quieter ride.
Durability & Wear
The 265/70r17’s smaller contact patch concentrates wear over a smaller area, potentially improving even treadwear and extending tread life. The heavier 275/70r17 also stresses suspension and steering components more.
Adverse Conditions
The two sizes perform similarly in rain, snow, and off-road use. The 275/70r17’s extra ground clearance is a slight off-road advantage, while the 265/70r17’s shorter sidewall makes it more responsive on slick roads.
Speedometer Difference
At an actual speed of 20 mph, the 275/70r17 tires cause the speedometer to read 20 mph, while the 265/70r17 tires cause a reading of 19.66 mph.
The slightly smaller diameter of the 265/70r17 tires accounts for this 0.34 mph difference in speedometer reading between the two tire sizes. Drivers should be aware of this variance when switching between these tires.
Alternative For 275/70r17
An alternative tire size for the 275/70R17 would be any tire size that has the same overall diameter and is compatible with a 17-inch rim diameter.
| Tire Size | Overall Diameter | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 305/60R17 | 31.4″ (798 mm) | -2.4% |
| 245/75R17 | 31.5″ (800 mm) | -2.2% |
| 285/65R17 | 31.6″ (802 mm) | -2.0% |
| 265/70R17 | 31.7″ (804 mm) | -1.7% |
| 235/80R17 | 31.8″ (808 mm) | -1.2% |
| 345/55R17 | 32.0″ (812 mm) | -0.7% |
| 255/75R17 | 32.0″ (814 mm) | -0.5% |
| 305/65R17 | 32.6″ (828 mm) | 1.2% |
| 285/70R17 | 32.8″ (832 mm) | 1.7% |
| 235/85R17 | 32.8″ (832 mm) | 1.7% |
| 255/80R17 | 33.1″ (840 mm) | 2.7% |
Alternative For 265/70r17
If you are unable to find this specific size, there are several alternative tire sizes that you can consider.
| Tire Size | Overall Diameter | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 235/75R17 | 30.9″ (784 mm) | -2.5% |
| 255/70R17 | 31.1″ (790 mm) | -1.7% |
| 275/65R17 | 31.1″ (790 mm) | -1.7% |
| 305/60R17 | 31.4″ (798 mm) | -0.7% |
| 245/75R17 | 31.5″ (800 mm) | -0.5% |
| 285/65R17 | 31.6″ (802 mm) | -0.2% |
| 235/80R17 | 31.8″ (808 mm) | 0.5% |
| 345/55R17 | 32.0″ (812 mm) | 1.0% |
| 255/75R17 | 32.0″ (814 mm) | 1.2% |
| 275/70R17 | 32.2″ (818 mm) | 1.7% |
| 305/65R17 | 32.6″ (828 mm) | 3.0% |
Our Observation
Reviewing the differences between these two tire sizes, it becomes clear that each has advantages suited for particular needs. The 265/70R17 offers responsive handling, even treadwear, and improved fuel economy, making it ideal for daily commuting and regular on-road driving.
Meanwhile, the 275/70R17 provides extra ground clearance, a smoother ride, and enhanced stability that can benefit off-roaders and those driving on rough terrain. Choosing between them depends on your priorities.
For most drivers who spend most of their time on paved roads, we recommend the 265/70R17 as the best all-around size thanks to its crisp handling and efficiency. But for maximizing ride comfort and traversing rougher conditions, the slightly larger 275/70R17 is a smart choice despite minor drawback
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.
