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.
265/75r16 vs 285/75r16 Table
This table is designed to help you quickly compare and identify the differences between the available options.
| 285/75R16 | 265/75R16 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Tire Height 32.83″ | Tire Height 31.65″ | -1.18 inch |
| Tread Width 11.22″ | Tread Width 10.43″ | -0.79 inch |
| Sidewall Height 8.42″ | Sidewall Height 7.82″ | -0.59 inch |
| Circumference 103.14″ | Circumference 99.43″ | -3.71 inch |
| Revs Per Mile 614 | Revs Per Mile 637 | 22.92 or 3.7% |
| Radial Tire | Radial Tire | No Difference |
| Rim Size 16 inch | Rim Size 16 inch | No Difference |
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?
When considering a switch, it’s essential to remember that it’s generally recommended to choose tires with a diameter within 3% of the factory-recommended tires. The 285/75r16 tires have a diameter 3.7% larger than the 265/75r16 tires, slightly exceeding the recommended threshold.
This deviation could lead to potential issues with your vehicle’s speedometer calibration, as a larger tire diameter might cause the speedometer to read at a slower speed than you’re traveling. Additionally, it could impact the transmission shift points and the overall fuel economy.
What Does 265/75r16 Tire Mean?
The tire’s width is the first number in tire size, like 265 in 265 75r16. This tire width is measured in millimeters and usually ranges from 185 mm to 295 mm. The second number, 75 in 265 75r16, is the aspect ratio.
This measures the height of the tire’s sidewall as a percentage of the width. In this case, 75 means the sidewall is 75% as tall as the wide tire. The final letter, R in 265 75r16, indicates the tire is radial.
The last number, 16 in 265 75r16, is the wheel diameter measured in inches. This size tire will fit a 16-inch wheel.
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.
