Tire Size 285/75r17 vs 265/70r17

The main difference between 285/75r17 and 265/70r17 tires is the sidewall height. That means the 285/75r17 tire size is about 1.11 inch taller than the 265/70r17 tire size.

This means that the 285/75R17 tire has a taller sidewall, which can provide better off-road performance and a more comfortable ride.

285 75r17 vs 265 70r17

This table will provide you with a quick overview of the distinctions between the options.

Fitment Guide

Replacement tires should be within 3% of the original size to avoid clearance issues or speedometer inaccuracies.

The 265/70r17 is 6.6% smaller in overall diameter than the 285/75r17, so may not be an ideal direct replacement unless adaptations are made.

The smaller 265/70r17 is more likely to fit without rubbing or requiring modifications.

Ground Clearance

The taller 285/75r17 provides 1.11 inches more ground clearance than the 265/70r17, beneficial for off-roading. However, this also causes a lower speedometer reading.

The shorter 265/70r17 reduces clearance, increasing scrape risk, but gives a more accurate speedometer.

Gas Mileage

The smaller 265/70r17 should confer slightly better fuel efficiency than the 285/75r17. The smaller contact patch and lower rotational mass contribute to improved efficiency, a plus for daily drivers.

Ride Comfort

The taller 70 aspect ratio sidewall of the 285/75r17 absorbs road impacts better than the shorter 65 aspect of the 265/70r17.

This provides a marginally smoother ride, especially over very uneven surfaces. The 265/70r17 transmits more harshness into the cabin.

Aesthetics

The 285/75r17 has a slightly taller sidewall, giving it a more aggressive, “stretched” look compared to the 265/70r17. This aesthetic suits trucks and SUVs well. The 265/70r17 has a more low-profile appearance.

Handling & Stability

The shorter 265/70r17 sidewall offers sharper handling response and cornering on pavement. The taller 285/75r17 sidewall flexes more, reducing handling precision somewhat. Both deliver stable performance.

Noise & Vibration

The stiffer 265/70r17 sidewall transmits more road noise and vibration into the cabin. The 285/75r17’s extra sidewall flex dampens noise and vibration better. However, differences are minor.

Durability & Wear

The lower profile 265/70r17 may exhibit more even treadwear and longer life. The taller 285/75r17 endures more impacts but its added weight could increase wear on components.

Adverse Conditions

Performance in rain, snow and off-road is similar. The extra ground clearance of the 285/75r17 provides a slight advantage off-road. The 265/70r17’s shorter sidewall makes it a bit more responsive.

Speedometer Reading

At 20 mph actual speed, the speedometer reads 20 mph with 285/75r17 tires equipped. But with 265/70r17 tires, it reads 18.68 mph at that true 20 mph speed. This 2.32 mph difference is due to the smaller diameter of the 265/70r17.

Our Observation
Based on our observation of “285/75r17 vs 265/70r17”, the 285/75r17 is better suited for off-roading and rugged terrain thanks to its taller sidewall and greater ground clearance.

However, the 265/70r17 provides advantages for on-road driving, with its sharper handling, potential fuel economy benefit, and lower-profile aesthetic.

For light off-roading needs, we recommend the more versatile 285/75r17. But the 265/70r17 is ideal for vehicles that will stay mostly on pavement.

Overall, the application will dictate which tire size better fits the intended usage. For moderate off-roading, we suggest the more capable 285/75r17.

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