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.

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.