Tire Size 285/70r17 vs 35×12.50r17
Are you considering upgrading your vehicle’s tires from 285/70R17 to 35×12.50R17? This article will help you understand the key differences between these tire sizes and how they may affect your driving experience, both on and off the road.
- The diameter of 35×12.50R17 tires is 7.1% larger than 285/70R17 tires, which exceeds the recommended 3% difference
- The width of 35×12.50R17 tires is 11.6% greater than 285/70R17 tires
- The sidewall height of 35×12.50R17 tires is 14.8% taller than 285/70R17 tires
- The speedometer will read 1.42 mph slower than the actual speed when using 35×12.50R17 tires
285/70r17 vs 35×12.50r17 Table
The primary difference between 285/70R17 and 35×12.50R17 tires is the overall diameter. 35×12.50R17 tires have a diameter that is 7.1% larger than 285/70R17 tires.
Fitment Guide
Since the diameter difference between 285/70R17 and 35×12.50R17 tires exceeds the acceptable 3% range, this interchange is not recommended without making necessary adaptations to your vehicle to prevent issues such as rubbing or clearance problems.
On-Road Impact
Switching to 35×12.50R17 tires can have several effects on your vehicle’s on-road performance. Let’s explore some of the key aspects:
- Ground Clearance: The taller sidewall of 35×12.50R17 tires will increase your vehicle’s ground clearance, which can be beneficial for avoiding obstacles and navigating uneven terrain. However, this may also result in a slightly higher center of gravity, affecting handling.
- Gas Mileage: The larger diameter and width of 35×12.50R17 tires can lead to increased rolling resistance, which may negatively impact your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. You may notice a slight decrease in gas mileage after making the switch.
- Ride Comfort: The taller sidewall of 35×12.50R17 tires can provide a more cushioned ride, absorbing bumps and vibrations more effectively than the shorter sidewall of 285/70R17 tires. This can result in a more comfortable driving experience on rough roads.
- Speedometer Accuracy: Due to the larger diameter of 35×12.50R17 tires, your vehicle’s speedometer will read slower than your actual speed. At a speedometer reading of 20 mph, your actual speed will be 21.42 mph. Keep this in mind to avoid unintentionally exceeding speed limits.
Off-Road Impact
If you frequently take your vehicle off-road, switching to 35×12.50R17 tires can offer several advantages. Here are some key considerations:
- Traction: The wider width of 35×12.50R17 tires provides a larger contact patch with the ground, which can improve traction on loose surfaces like sand, gravel, or mud. This can be particularly beneficial for off-road adventures.
- Obstacle Clearance: The increased diameter and sidewall height of 35×12.50R17 tires offer better clearance over rocks, roots, and other obstacles commonly encountered in off-road situations. This can help protect your vehicle’s undercarriage from damage.
- Durability: Off-road tires like the 35×12.50R17 are typically constructed with more robust materials and tread designs to withstand the rigors of off-road use. They may offer better puncture resistance and overall durability compared to highway-focused tires.
- Aesthetics: Many off-road enthusiasts prefer the aggressive look of larger, wider tires. Switching to 35×12.50R17 tires can give your vehicle a more rugged and imposing appearance, which may be desirable for those who value the off-road aesthetic.
What is the Difference Between 285/70R17 and 35×12.5R17?
The main difference between 285/70R17 and 35×12.5R17 tires is the overall diameter. The 35×12.5R17 tire has a diameter of 35.03 inches (889.72 mm), while the 285/70R17 tire has a diameter of 32.71 inches (830.8 mm).
This means that the 35×12.5R17 tire is 2.32 inches (58.92 mm) taller than the 285/70R17 tire, which is a significant difference of 7.1%.
This difference in diameter can affect various aspects of vehicle performance, including speedometer accuracy, ground clearance, and overall handling.
Can I Use 35×12.5R17 Instead of 285/70R17?
It is not recommended to use 35×12.5R17 tires instead of 285/70R17 tires without making necessary modifications to your vehicle.
The diameter difference between these two tire sizes is approximately 7.1%, which exceeds the generally accepted 3% rule for tire size differences.
Using tires with such a significant size difference can lead to issues like inaccurate speedometer readings, increased wear on drivetrain components, and potential clearance problems.
If you still wish to make the switch, it’s essential to consult with a professional and make appropriate modifications to your vehicle to accommodate the larger tires.
How Much Taller Is a 35×12.5R17 Tire Than a 285/70R17?
A 35×12.5R17 tire is 2.32 inches (58.92 mm) taller than a 285/70R17 tire. The overall diameter of the 35×12.5R17 tire is 35.03 inches (889.72 mm), while the diameter of the 285/70R17 tire is 32.71 inches (830.8 mm).
This difference in height is substantial and can significantly impact the vehicle’s ground clearance, center of gravity, and overall performance.
How Much Wider is a 35×12.5R17 Tire Than a 285/70R17?
A 35×12.5R17 tire is 1.3 inches (33 mm) wider than a 285/70R17 tire. The width of the 35×12.5R17 tire is 12.52 inches (318 mm), while the width of the 285/70R17 tire is 11.22 inches (285 mm).
This difference in width is about 11.6%, which can affect the tire’s contact patch, traction, and overall stability. Wider tires generally provide better grip and handling, especially in off-road conditions, but may also increase rolling resistance and affect fuel efficiency.
Our Observations
While switching from 285/70R17 to 35×12.50R17 tires offers several benefits, especially for off-road use, it’s essential to consider the potential drawbacks.
The increased diameter and width can negatively affect fuel efficiency and speedometer accuracy, which may be more noticeable during on-road driving.
However, the improved traction, ground clearance, and durability of 35×12.50R17 tires can significantly enhance your vehicle’s off-road capabilities.
Ultimately, the decision to switch tire sizes should be based on your specific driving needs and preferences, as well as your willingness to make necessary vehicle adaptations to accommodate the larger tires.
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.