Tire Size 285/40r24 vs 305/35r24
While this switch can offer some benefits, it’s important to understand the key differences between these tire sizes and how they may impact your driving experience.
- Wider tires provide improved traction and stability on loose surfaces
- Lower sidewall height may result in a slightly firmer ride
- Minor reduction in ground clearance due to smaller overall diameter
- Potential for a sportier, more aggressive appearance
- Slight decrease in fuel efficiency due to increased rolling resistance
285/40r24 vs 305/35r24
Fitment Guide
In this case, the 305/35R24 tires have a diameter that is 1.7% smaller than the 285/40R24 tires, which falls within the acceptable range. However, it’s still essential to consider the potential impact on your vehicle’s performance and handling.
On-Road Impact
Switching to wider 305/35R24 tires can have both positive and negative effects on your on-road driving experience. Let’s explore some key aspects:
- Traction & Handling: The increased width of the 305/35R24 tires provides a larger contact patch with the road, which can enhance traction and handling, especially during cornering and in wet conditions. However, the wider tires may also result in increased steering effort and a slightly less responsive feel.
- Ride Comfort: The switch to 305/35R24 tires may slightly affect ride comfort due to the reduced sidewall height. The shorter sidewall can result in a firmer ride, as the tires have less cushioning to absorb road imperfections. However, the difference in sidewall height is only 0.29 inches (7.25 mm), so the impact on comfort may be minimal.
- Fuel Efficiency: The wider 305/35R24 tires have a larger rolling resistance, which can marginally impact fuel efficiency. The increased width and weight of the tires require more energy to rotate, potentially leading to a slight decrease in gas mileage. However, the difference in fuel consumption may be negligible in real-world driving conditions.
- Speedometer Accuracy: The 1.7% difference in tire diameter can affect your vehicle’s speedometer accuracy. With the 305/35R24 tires, your speedometer may read slightly faster than your actual speed. At a speedometer reading of 60 mph, your true speed would be approximately 58.95 mph. Keep this in mind and adjust your driving accordingly.
Off-Road Impact
If you plan to take your vehicle off-road, the switch to 305/35R24 tires can offer some advantages, but there are also trade-offs to consider:
- Traction: The wider 305/35R24 tires provide a larger contact area with the terrain, which can enhance traction on loose surfaces like sand, gravel, or mud. The increased width allows the tires to float better on soft surfaces, reducing the risk of sinking or getting stuck.
- Ground Clearance: The slightly smaller overall diameter of the 305/35R24 tires may marginally reduce ground clearance. The difference in diameter is 0.57 inches (14.5 mm), which is relatively small but could still impact clearance over obstacles. Consider this if you frequently encounter rocky or uneven terrain.
- Sidewall Protection: The shorter sidewall of the 305/35R24 tires offers less cushioning and protection against impacts from rocks or other obstacles. When venturing off-road, the reduced sidewall height may make the tires more susceptible to damage from sharp edges or heavy impacts.
What is the Main Difference Between 285/40r24 and 305/35r24 Tires?
The primary difference lies in the tire width, with 305/35R24 tires being 0.79 inches (20 mm) wider than 285/40R24 tires.
Can I Use 305/35r24 Tires Instead of 285/40r24?
Yes, you can. The overall diameter difference between these sizes is -1.7%, which falls within the acceptable 3% range.
How Much Taller is a 285/40r24 Tire Than a 305/35r24?
A 285/40R24 tire is 0.57 inches (14.5 mm) taller than a 305/35R24 tire, which equates to a 1.7% difference in overall diameter.
How Much Wider is a 305/35r24 Tire Than a 285/40r24?
A 305/35R24 tire is 0.79 inches (20 mm) wider than a 285/40R24 tire, representing a 7% difference in tire width.
Our Observations
After analyzing the differences between 285/40R24 and 305/35R24 tires, we’ve concluded that the switch can offer some benefits but also comes with certain drawbacks.
The wider 305/35R24 tires can improve traction and handling on both paved roads and off-road terrain. However, the reduced sidewall height may slightly impact ride comfort and off-road durability.
The 1.7% difference in overall diameter falls within the acceptable range for tire fitment, but it’s still important to consider the potential effects on speedometer accuracy and fuel efficiency.
While the differences may be negligible in daily driving, they can add up over time. Ultimately, the decision to switch from 285/40R24 to 305/35R24 tires depends on your specific driving needs and preferences.
If you prioritize improved traction and handling, and the minor trade-offs in comfort and efficiency are acceptable to you, then making the switch could be a worthwhile upgrade for your vehicle.
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.