Tire Size 285/65r20 vs 33×12.50r20
The main difference between the two tire sizes 285/65R20 and 33×12.50R20 is the diameter and width. The 33×12.50R20 tire is 0.4 inches taller and 1.3 inches wider than the 285/65R20 tire.
285/65r20 vs 33×12.50r20
This comparison table can help you understand the differences between tire sizes 285/65R20 and 33×12.50R20.
| 285 55R20 | 275 60R20 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Tire Height 34.59″ | Tire Height 33.02″ | 1.57 inch |
| Tread Width 11.22″ | Tread Width 12.52″ | 1.3 inch |
| Sidewall Height 7.29″ | Sidewall Height 6.51″ | 0.78 inch |
| Circumference 108.66″ | Circumference 103.74″ | 4.92 inch |
| Revolutions per mile 583 | Revolutions per mile 610 | 27.66 Mile |
| Speedometer Reading 20 mph | Speedometer Reading 19.09 mph | 0.91 mph |
| Radial Tire | Radial Tire | No Difference |
| Rim Size 20 inch | Rim Size 20 inch | No Difference |
Fitment Guide
The 285/65r20 has a 4.5% larger diameter than the 33×12.50r20. This exceeds the 3% diameter difference threshold for direct replacement tires.
The 33×12.50r20 would likely require adaptations like a lift kit to fit properly without rubbing or clearance issues.
Ground Clearance
With a diameter of 34.59 inches, the 285/65r20 provides 1.57 inches more ground clearance than the 33×12.50r20 at 33.02 inches.
This added clearance is beneficial for off-roading by preventing scrapes over obstacles. However, the larger 285/65r20 diameter causes a lower speedometer reading.
Gas Mileage
The 285/65r20 is heavier with more rolling resistance, likely resulting in slightly worse fuel efficiency than the lighter 33×12.50r20. Less rotational mass improves mileage.
Ride Comfort
The taller sidewall and larger air volume of the 285/65r20 absorb impacts better, providing a smoother ride over bumps and uneven terrain. The 33×12.50r20 transmits more road harshness into the cabin.
Aesthetics
The 285/65r20’s larger diameter and taller sidewall have a stretched, aggressive off-road look compared to the 33×12.50r20. This suits trucks and SUVs well. The 33×12.50r20 appears slightly more aerodynamic.
Handling & Stability
The shorter sidewall and smaller diameter of the 33×12.50r20 enable quicker steering response and handling precision.
The taller 285/65r20 sidewall flexes more, reducing handling performance slightly. Both deliver responsive, stable handling overall.
Noise & Vibration
The 33×12.50r20’s stiffer sidewall transmits more road noise and vibration into the cabin. The extra cushioning of the 285/65r20’s sidewall dampens noise and vibration better for a quieter ride.
Durability & Wear
The 285/65r20’s larger size likely wears suspension components faster from increased weight and rotational forces. Even treadwear may be slightly better on the smaller 33×12.50r20.
Adverse Conditions
The narrower 285/65r20 could have an advantage in cutting through snow to the pavement. The wider 33×12.50r20 provides more traction in mud, thanks to a larger contact patch. Both perform well overall in adverse conditions.
Speedometer Difference
At an actual speed of 20 mph, the speedometer reads 20 mph with 285/65r20 tires equipped. But with 33×12.50r20 tires, the speedometer reads 19.09 mph. This speedometer difference of 0.91 mph is due to the smaller diameter of the 33×12.50r20 tires.
Alternative For 285/65r20
If you’re looking for alternative tire sizes for a 285/65r20, this table chart can be helpful.
| Tire Size | Overall Diameter | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 295/60R20 | 33.9″ (862 mm) | -1.8% |
| 355/50R20 | 34″ (864 mm) | -1.6% |
| 275/65R20 | 34.1″ (866 mm) | -1.4% |
| 305/60R20 | 34.4″ (874 mm) | -0.5% |
| 335/55R20 | 34.5″ (876 mm) | -0.2% |
| 315/60R20 | 34.9″ (886 mm) | 0.9% |
| 295/65R20 | 35.1″ (892 mm) | 1.6% |
| 325/60R20 | 35.4″ (898 mm) | 2.3% |
Alternative For 33×12.50r20
If you’re looking for alternative tire sizes for a 33×12 50r20, this table chart can be helpful.
| Tire Size | Overall Diameter | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 275/55R20 | 31.9″ (810 mm) | -2.9% |
| 255/60R20 | 32″ (814 mm) | -2.4% |
| 305/50R20 | 32″ (814 mm) | -2.4% |
| 285/55R20 | 32.4″ (822 mm) | -1.4% |
| 315/50R20 | 32.4″ (824 mm) | -1.2% |
| 265/60R20 | 32.5″ (826 mm) | -1% |
| 295/55R20 | 32.8″ (832 mm) | -0.2% |
| 275/60R20 | 33″ (838 mm) | 0.5% |
| 305/55R20 | 33.2″ (844 mm) | 1.2% |
| 375/45R20 | 33.3″ (846 mm) | 1.4% |
| 285/60R20 | 33.5″ (850 mm) | 1.9% |
What Does 33×12.50r20 Tire Mean?
The first number in a 33×12 50r20 tire size refers to the diameter of the tire in inches, which is 33 inches. The second number is the section Width of the tire, which is 12.50 inches, and the last number is the size of the wheel in inches, which is 20 inches. This size is a good option for people who want a lower tire than a 285 65r20.
What Does 285/65r20 Tire Mean?
A 285 65r20 tire is a bit different from a 33×12 50r20. The first number, 285, refers to the width of the tire in millimeters. The second number, 65, is the aspect ratio, which is the height of the sidewall. The last number, 20, is the wheel diameter in inches. This size is a good option for people who want a wider tire than a 33×12 50r20.
Our Observation
While the 33×12.50R20 offers marginally better handling and efficiency, the difference is minor compared to the 285/65R20. The larger tire provides more significant advantages in ground clearance, off-road traction, and ride quality over uneven terrain.
Given the modest on-road handling gain with the 33″ tire, we recommend the 285/65R20 as the best overall choice. The slight diameter difference has little impact on street driving, whereas the larger size’s extra clearance and cushioning deliver more versatile all-terrain performance. The 285/65R20 strikes the optimal balance for mixed on and off-road use for most drivers.
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.
