Tire Size 285/75r16 vs 265/75r16
The main difference between 285/75r16 and 265/75r16 tire sizes is in the section width. The 285/75r16 tire size is about 20 millimeters wider than the 265/75r16 tire size.
This difference might seem minor initially, but it can significantly impact your vehicle’s performance and functionality.
| / | R |
| / | R |
| Parameter | 235/35 R18 | 205/40 R18 | Differ. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tire Height | |||
| Section Width | |||
| Circumference | |||
| Sidewall Height | |||
| Revolutions | |||
| Rim Size |
Fitment Guide
The new set should be within 3% of the original diameter when replacing tires to avoid issues. The 285/75r16 is 3.6% larger in overall diameter than the 265/75r16, so it may require adaptations like a lift kit to fit perfectly and prevent rubbing.
Ground Clearance
The taller 285/75r16 provides 1.18 inches more ground clearance than the 265/75r16, an advantage for off-roading over rough terrain.
However, the larger diameter causes a lower speedometer reading. The 265/75r16 reduces clearance, increasing the damage risk but giving a higher speedometer reading.
Gas Mileage
With less contact patch and rotational mass, the 265/75r16 offers better fuel efficiency crucial for daily driving. The heavier 285/75r16 may reduce mileage owing to more rolling resistance.
Ride Comfort
The 265/75r16 provides a smoother highway and city ride, while the taller 285/75r16 absorbs impacts better for off-road comfort. The extra sidewall cushioning smoothens out bumps and cracks.
Aesthetics
The smaller 265/75r16 benefits vehicle aerodynamics, whereas the 285/75r16 has a more aggressive aesthetic appeal at the cost of efficiency. The marginally taller sidewall of the 285/75r16 provides a subtly stretched look suiting trucks and SUVs.
Handling & Stability
The 265/75r16 offers enhanced response and handling from its shorter sidewall but both sizes deliver stable handling. The taller 285/75r16 sidewall flexes more, reducing precision slightly.
Noise & Vibration
The stiffer 265/75r16 sidewall transmits more road noise and vibration into the cabin. The extra flex of the 285/75r16 dampens noise and vibration for a comfortable, quiet ride.
Durability & Wear
The 265/75r16 can exhibit even treadwear and longer life. The heavier 285/75r16 endures more impact but may increase wear on components.
Adverse Conditions
The narrower 265/75r16 cuts through snow/ice better, while the wider 285/75r16 provides traction in mud. Both handle rain and snow well.
Speedometer Difference
The 285/75r16 tires result in a higher speedometer reading compared to the 265/75r16 tires. At an actual vehicle speed of 20 mph, the speedometer reads 20 mph with the 285/75r16 tires.
For the 265/75r16 tires, the speedometer reading is 19.28 mph at the same actual speed. The difference in speedometer reading between these two tire sizes is 0.72 mph.
Can I use 285/75r16 instead of 265/75r16?
No, using 285/75r16 instead of 265/75r16 results in a 3.6% larger diameter, exceeding the advised 3% limit. This deviation may impact speedometer accuracy and affect vehicle performance.
What Does 265/75r16 Mean?
The tire size notation “265/75R16” indicates key specifications. The first number, 265, denotes the tire’s width in millimeters. The following number, 75, represents the aspect ratio, signifying that the tire’s height is 75% of its width.
The letter ‘R’ denotes a radial construction, and the final number, 16, signifies the wheel diameter in inches. Tire Size 265/75r16 is equivalent to 31.7×10.4R16 in inches.
How Much Taller Is A 285/75r16 Tire Than 265/75r16?
The 285/75R16 tire is taller than a 265/75R16 by 1.18 inches (30mm), which results in a 3.6% increase in diameter.
The 285/75R16 has a height of 32.83 inches (833.9mm), while the 265/75R16 has a height of 31.65 inches (803.9mm).
265/75r16 vs 285/75r16
This table is designed to help you quickly compare and identify the differences between the available options
How Much Wider Is A 285/75r16 Tire Than A 265/75r16?
The 285/75R16 tire is actually 0.79 inches, or about 7%, narrower than the 265/75R16 tire when comparing their tread widths.
Specifically, the measurements reveal that the 285/75R16 tire has a width of 11.22 inches (285 mm) across the tread surface, while the 265/75R16 tire is a bit wider at 10.43 inches (265 mm) across.
What Size Rim For 285/75r16?
If you’re considering using a 285/75r16 tire, it’s good to know that it can be mounted in a 16-inch rim size and the recommended rim size range for it is typically between 7.5 to 9 inches.
What Size Rim For 265/75R16?
For tires with the size of 265/75R16, a 16-inch rim size is a perfect match. If you want to ensure optimal performance and safety, it is advisable to use a rim size that is within the range of 7 to 9 inches.
Our Observation
After reviewing the data, I recommend the 265/75r16 as the best overall tire size. While the 285/75r16 offers advantages in ground clearance and traction off-road, the 265/75r16’s smaller size provides benefits that matter more for everyday driving.
The enhanced fuel efficiency, smoother ride, and improved handling of the 265/75r16 make it better suited for most drivers’ needs. The slightly lower cost of the smaller tires is also appealing.
Unless you frequently go off-roading where the bigger tires excel, I believe the 265/75r16 is the smarter choice for daily commuting and highway travel. With better economy and road manners, the 265/75r16 is the best pick 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.
