Tire Size 285/60r20 vs 33×12.50r20
The main difference between 285/60R20 and 33×12.50R20 tires is in the section width. The 33×12.50R20 tire size is about 1.3 inches wider than the 285/60R20 tire size. This wider tread results in some key differences in performance and capabilities between the two tire sizes.
| / | R |
| / | R |
| Parameter | 235/35 R18 | 205/40 R18 | Differ. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tire Height | |||
| Section Width | |||
| Circumference | |||
| Sidewall Height | |||
| Revolutions | |||
| Rim Size |
Fitment Guide
When replacing tires, the new size should be within 3% of the overall diameter of the original tires to prevent clearance issues.
The 33×12.50R20 is only 1.3% larger in overall diameter than the 285/60R20, so it can directly replace the stock size without rubbing or requiring suspensions modifications on most vehicles.
Gas Mileage
The wider 33×12.50R20 tire will likely have slightly higher rolling resistance, more rotational mass, and a larger contact patch, resulting in marginally reduced fuel efficiency compared to the 285/60R20. However, the difference is slight, and both sizes deliver good gas mileage.
Ground Clearance
With a 1.3% larger diameter, the 33×12.50R20 provides a minor increase of 0.44 inches in ground clearance over the 285/60R20 size.
This can help prevent scrapes and damage from obstacles, especially useful for off-road driving. But it also causes a slightly lower speedometer reading.
Ride Comfort
The softer sidewalls and greater air volume of the taller 33×12.50R20 tire absorb bumps and impact more effectively.
This cushioning effect can provide a more comfortable ride over uneven terrain than the shorter 285/60R20 tire.
Aesthetic Look
Visually, the 33×12.50R20 will have a more aggressive, “stretched” look owing to its wider tread and slightly taller sidewall versus the 285/60R20. This suits some trucks and SUVs better from an aesthetic perspective.
Handling & Stability
Despite a modest reduction in responsiveness from its flexible sidewall, the 33×12.50R20 offers excellent stability and traction from its wide tread and substantial contact patch. Handling remains responsive as well.
Noise & Vibration
The 33×12.50R20 runs quieter than the 285/60R20, damping noise and vibration with its extra sidewall height. But both sizes are quiet and smooth on the highway.
Durability & Wear
With more weight and a heavier footprint, the 33×12.50R20 may exhibit slightly faster wear on some vehicle components. The tread life difference is minor but also favors the 285/60R20 size.
Adverse Conditions
Deep snow and mud traction favor the much wider 33×12.50R20 tire over the 285/60R20. Its big footprint provides tremendous traction reserves. Light snow and icy road responsiveness is similar.
Speedometer Difference
When upgraded from the stock 285/60R20 size, the 1.3% larger 33×12.50R20 causes the speedometer to read about 0.27 mph lower than the actual vehicle speed.
At 20 mph actual speed, the speedometer reads 19.73 mph with the bigger 33×12.50R20 tires.
Is A 285 Tire The Same As A 33?
No, a 285/60r20 tire is not the same as a 33×12.50r20 tire. The 33×12.50r20 tire is 0.44 inches smaller in diameter than the 285/60r20 tire.
The speedometer difference between the two is 1.3%. The two tire sizes have different dimensions and but its interchangeable.
Can I Use 285/60r20 Tires Instead of 33×12.50r20?
Yes, you can replace 33×12.50R20 tires with 285/60R20 tires on most vehicles. The overall diameter difference between these two tire sizes is only 1.3%, which is under the 3% replacement guideline.
This means the 285/60R20 should fit without rubbing or clearance issues. Additionally, check that the load rating on the 285/60R20 meets or exceeds the load rating of your original 33×12.50R20 tires.
As long as the load rating is sufficient, the narrower 285/60R20 can be directly substituted for 33×12.50R20 from a fitment and functionality standpoint.
How Much Wider Is A 33×12.50r2 Tire Than A 285/60r20?
A 33×12.50R20 tire is 1.3 inches (33mm) wider than a 285/60R20 tire. Specifically, the 33×12.50R20 measures 12.52 inches (318mm) across the tread section, whereas the 285/60R20 measures 11.22 inches (285mm) in width. So, the 33×12.50R20 tire is about 11.6% wider than the 285/60R20 size.
285/60r20 Equivalent
The 285/60r20 tire size is equivalent to 33.5×11.2R20 tire size in the high flotation system. The equivalent of 285/60R20 in inches is a tire with a diameter of 33.5 inches, a tread width of 11.2 inches, and a wheel diameter of 20 inches.
33×12.50R20 Equivalent
The equivalent metric size for 33×12.50R20 tires is 325/50R20. This size has a width of 325 mm, slightly wider than the 33×12.50R20 tire, and an aspect ratio of 50, somewhat lower than the 52 aspect ratio of the 33×12.50R20 tire.
The diameter of the 33×12.50R20 tire is 33.0 inches, and the closest equivalent in metric size is the 325/50R20 tire.
33×12.50r20 vs 285/60r20
Our Observation
Both the 285/60R20 and 33×12.50R20 offer comparable real-world performance. The wider 33×12.50R20 provides a more aggressive visual stance and better heavy traction, making it an excellent choice for off-roading, mudding, or deep snow.
But the 285/60R20 is more responsive and efficient for on-road driving. Ultimately, the 33×12.50R20 is the more versatile option for trucks and SUVs intended for both on and off-road use.
We recommend the 33×12.50R20 as the best all-around choice, given its blend of aesthetic appeal, stability, and traction across varying conditions. The minor downsides in efficiency and speedometer accuracy are easy for most drivers and vehicles to accept.
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.
