Tire Size 285/55r20 vs 33×12.50r20
The main difference between 285/55R20 and 33×12.50R20 tires is their section width. 285/55R20 tires have a width of 11.22 inches, while 33×12.50R20 tires are wider at 12.52 inches, a difference of 1.3 inches or 11.6%. This width difference impacts various performance factors.
285/55r20 vs 33×12.50r20
To help you understand the differences more easily and quickly, we have created a comparison table for you to glance at.
| 285 55R20 | 33×12.5R20 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Tire Height 32.34″ | Tire Height 33.02″ | 0.68 inch |
| Tread Width 11.22″ | Tread Width 12.52″ | 1.3 inch |
| Sidewall Height 6.17″ | Sidewall Height 6.51″ | 0.34 inch |
| Circumference 101.61″ | Circumference 103.74″ | 2.13 inch |
| Revolutions per mile 623.58 | Revolutions per mile 610.78 | -12.8 mile |
| Speedometer Reading 20 mph | Speedometer Reading 20.42 mph | 0.42 mph |
Fitment Guide
The 33×12.50R20 tire is around 2% larger in overall diameter and requires about 3% less revolutions per mile. This is within the 3% tolerance for direct replacement without adjustments.
However, some vehicles may still require small adaptations for the wider 12.52-inch section width.
Ground Clearance
With a 2.1% larger diameter, the 33×12.50R20 tire provides 0.68 inches more ground clearance than the 285/55R20.
This extra clearance improves off-road capability and ability to traverse uneven terrain without scraping or damage. However, the larger diameter also causes a 2.1% lower speedometer reading.
Fuel Economy
The wider 12.52-inch section and larger overall diameter of the 33×12.50R20 result in slightly higher rolling resistance and rotational mass compared to the 285/55R20.
This may reduce fuel mileage to a small degree. The 285/55R20’s more minor contact patch proves more efficient.
Ride Comfort
The 33×12.50R20’s taller sidewall and larger air volume absorb bumps and impact more effectively. This cushier ride is ideal for rugged terrain but marginally less responsive on-road. The lower profile 285/55R20 provides a firmer, more responsive ride on paved surfaces.
Aesthetics
Visually, the 33×12.50R20 appears somewhat “stretched” due to its 2.1% larger diameter and 5.5% taller sidewall. This suits the aesthetics of trucks and SUVs better than the lower profile 285/55R20, which has a slightly scrunched look.
Handling & Stability
The 285/55R20’s shorter sidewall enhances responsiveness and handling precision, though both tires deliver stability. The extra sidewall flex of the 33×12.50R20 reduces handling sharpness a bit but aids stability off-road.
Noise & Vibration
The 33×12.50R20’s additional air volume and flexible sidewall absorb noise and vibration effectively. The 285/55R20’s stiffer sidewall transmits more road noise and vibration into the cabin. Differences are modest, though.
Durability & Wear
The 285/55R20’s smaller contact patch and lower profile may promote slightly more even treadwear. The 33×12.50R20 handles impact better, but its larger size adds more strain on components. Both exhibit good durability.
Adverse Conditions
Both tires perform well across conditions. The 33×12.50R20 provides a bit more traction off-road, while the 285/55R20 is slightly more agile on snow and ice. Performance differences are minimal.
Speedometer Difference
At an actual speed of 20 mph, the 285/55R20 speedometer reads 20 mph. But the larger diameter 33×12.50R20 reads 0.42 mph lower at 19.58 mph due to 2.1% less revolutions per mile. This speedometer discrepancy is slight but should be considered.
Alternative For 285/55r20
This table offers a quick comparison of tire sizes in terms of their overall diameter, along with the percentage difference compared to the standard size.
| Tire Size | Overall Diameter | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 245/60R20 | 31.6″ (802 mm) | -2.4% |
| 295/50R20 | 31.7″ (804 mm) | -2.2% |
| 275/55R20 | 31.9″ (810 mm) | -1.5% |
| 255/60R20 | 32″ (814 mm) | -1% |
| 305/50R20 | 32″ (814 mm) | -1% |
| 315/50R20 | 32.4″ (824 mm) | 0.2% |
| 265/60R20 | 32.5″ (826 mm) | 0.5% |
| 295/55R20 | 32.8″ (832 mm) | 1.2% |
| 325/50R20 | 32.8″ (834 mm) | 1.5% |
| 275/60R20 | 33″ (838 mm) | 1.9% |
| 305/55R20 | 33.2″ (844 mm) | 2.7% |
| 375/45R20 | 33.3″ (846 mm) | 2.9% |
Alternative For 33×12 50r20
This table provides a convenient comparison of different tire sizes based on their overall diameter, along with the percentage difference compared to the 33×12 50r20 tire size.
| Tire Size | Diameter | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 265/60R20 | 32.5″ | -1.52% |
| 285/55R20 | 32.3″ | -2.12% |
| 295/55R20 | 32.8″ | -0.61% |
| 325/50R20 | 32.8″ | -0.61% |
| 275/60R20 | 33.0″ | 0% |
| 285/60R20 | 33.5″ | 1.52% |
| 295/60R20 | 33.9″ | 2.73% |
| 33/12R20 | 33.2″ | 0.61% |
| 305/55/R20 | 33.0″ | 0% |
| 375/45R20 | 33.3″ | 0.91% |
Our Observation
The 285/55R20 is best suited for on-road driving with its responsive handling, quiet ride, and fuel efficiency. The 33×12.50R20 is preferable for off-road use thanks to its added ground clearance, cushioned ride, and improved traction.
While differences are modest, the 33×12.50R20’s taller sidewall aesthetic may be favored for trucks and SUVs.
Overall, we recommend the more well-rounded 285/55R20 tire for most drivers who stay on paved roads. But for regular off-road use, the 33×12.50R20 is a better choice to handle rough terrain.
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.
