Tire Size 285/60r20 vs 33×12.50r20
Tire upgrades can transform your vehicle’s performance and appearance. Changing from 285/60r20 to 33×12.50r20 tires is a popular choice for many truck and SUV owners seeking improved off-road capability and a bolder look.
- The new tires are 1.3% smaller in diameter, within the acceptable range.
- Width increases by 11.6%, potentially improving traction.
- Speedometer will read slightly higher than actual speed.
- Minimal impact on overall vehicle height and ground clearance.
- May affect fuel efficiency due to increased width.
285/60r20 vs 33×12.50r20 Table
The primary distinction when switching from 285/60r20 to 33×12.50r20 tires is the width increase. The new tires are 1.3 inches (33 mm) wider, representing an 11.6% increase.
Fitment Guide
In this case, the 33×12.50r20 tire has a diameter of 33.02 inches, which is 1.3% smaller than the original 285/60r20 tire’s 33.46-inch diameter. This difference is well within the recommended 3% range, making the interchange generally acceptable without major modifications.
On-Road Impact
Switching to 33×12.50r20 tires can affect your vehicle’s on-road performance in several ways. Let’s explore how this change might impact your daily driving experience.
- Gas Mileage: The wider 33×12.50r20 tires may slightly decrease fuel efficiency. With an 11.6% increase in width, these tires create more rolling resistance and air drag, potentially reducing your miles per gallon. However, the impact is likely to be minimal, and most drivers won’t notice a significant change in their fuel consumption.
- Ride Comfort: You might experience a small change in ride quality. The wider tires can absorb road imperfections better, potentially providing a smoother ride. However, the lower profile (sidewall height reduced by 3.3%) might make the ride slightly firmer over bumps and potholes.
- Speedometer Accuracy: Your speedometer will be affected by this tire switch. With the new tires, your speedometer will read about 1.3% higher than your actual speed. For example, when your speedometer shows 20 mph, you’ll actually be traveling at 19.73 mph. While this difference is small, it’s worth keeping in mind, especially when monitoring your speed in areas with strict enforcement.
- Handling: The wider tires can improve your vehicle’s handling on dry roads. You may notice better cornering stability and shorter braking distances due to the increased contact patch with the road. However, wet weather performance might be slightly affected, as wider tires are more prone to hydroplaning.
- Noise: Wider tires often produce more road noise, especially if they have a more aggressive tread pattern. This increase in noise might be noticeable during highway driving but is usually not significant enough to be a major concern.
Off-Road Impact
For those who enjoy off-road adventures, the switch to 33×12.50r20 tires can bring some exciting changes. Here’s how your off-road experience might be enhanced with these new tires.
- Traction: The wider 33×12.50r20 tires offer a larger contact patch with the ground, potentially improving traction in off-road conditions. This can be particularly beneficial in loose terrain like sand, mud, or gravel, where the extra width helps distribute the vehicle’s weight more evenly.
- Ground Clearance: Despite the slight decrease in overall diameter (0.44 inches or 11.28 mm), the impact on ground clearance is minimal. You’ll likely not notice any significant difference in your vehicle’s ability to clear obstacles on the trail.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The wider tires give your vehicle a more aggressive and rugged look. This can be particularly appealing for off-road enthusiasts who want their vehicle to stand out and reflect their adventurous lifestyle.
- Flotation: In soft terrain like sand or snow, the wider tires provide better flotation. This means your vehicle is less likely to sink or get stuck, making it easier to navigate challenging off-road conditions.
- Rock Crawling: For rock crawling enthusiasts, the wider tires offer a slight advantage. The increased width provides more surface area to grip rocks and uneven surfaces, potentially improving your vehicle’s capability in technical off-road situations.
- Durability: Off-road tires like the 33×12.50r20 are often built with tougher compounds and reinforced sidewalls. This can lead to improved durability when tackling rough terrain, reducing the risk of punctures and sidewall damage.
What is the Difference Between 285/60r20 and 33×12.5r20?
The main difference between 285/60r20 and 33×12.5r20 tires is the width. The 33×12.5r20 tire is significantly wider, measuring 12.52 inches (318 mm) compared to the 285/60r20’s width of 11.22 inches (285 mm).
The wider profile of the 33×12.5r20 tire can significantly impact the vehicle’s traction, handling characteristics, and overall appearance, making it a crucial factor to consider when contemplating this tire switch.
Can I Use 33×12.5r20 Instead of 285/60r20?
Yes, you can use 33×12.5r20 tires instead of 285/60r20 tires. The diameter difference between these two tire sizes is within the acceptable range of plus or minus 3%.
Specifically, the 33×12.5r20 tire has a diameter of 33.02 inches, which is only 1.3% smaller than the 285/60r20 tire’s 33.46-inch diameter. This minimal difference means the interchange is generally acceptable without requiring major modifications to your vehicle.
How Much Taller Is a 33×12.5r20 Tire Than a 285/60r20?
Contrary to what the naming convention might suggest, the 33×12.5r20 tire is not taller than the 285/60r20 tire. In fact, it’s slightly shorter.
The 285/60r20 tire has a diameter of 33.46 inches (850 mm), while the 33×12.5r20 tire has a diameter of 33.02 inches (838.72 mm). This means the 33×12.5r20 tire is actually 0.44 inches (11.28 mm) shorter than the 285/60r20 tire, representing a 1.3% decrease in height.
How Much Wider is a 285/60r20 Tire Than a 33×12.5r20?
The 285/60r20 tire is not wider than the 33×12.5r20 tire; it’s actually narrower. The 285/60r20 tire has a width of 11.22 inches (285 mm), while the 33×12.5r20 tire is 12.52 inches (318 mm) wide.
This means the 33×12.5r20 tire is 1.3 inches (33 mm) wider than the 285/60r20 tire, representing an 11.6% increase in width.
Our Observation
Switching from 285/60r20 to 33×12.50r20 tires offers a mix of benefits and minor drawbacks. The wider tires enhance off-road performance, providing better traction in various terrains and a more aggressive look.
On-road, you might enjoy improved handling and cornering stability. However, the change may slightly decrease fuel efficiency and increase road noise.
The minimal difference in diameter (1.3% smaller) means that impacts on ground clearance and speedometer accuracy are negligible for most drivers.
Overall, this tire switch can be a worthwhile upgrade for those seeking improved off-road capability without significantly altering their vehicle’s on-road characteristics.
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.