Tire Size 285/75r17 vs 295/70r17
The main difference between 285/75r17 and 295/70r17 tires is that the 285/75r17 tires are 0.57 inches (14.5 mm) taller than the 295/70r17 tires.
This means that the 285/75r17 tires will have a slightly higher ground clearance and will provide more off-road performance.
285/75r17 vs 295/70r17
This table will help you understand the difference between them and which one to choose for your vehicle.
Fitment Guide
Replacement tires must be within 3% of the original tire’s overall diameter to maintain proper speedometer and odometer accuracy.
The 295/70R17 is 1.7% smaller in overall diameter than the 285/75R17, so it falls within the acceptable 3% range for direct replacement on vehicles originally equipped with 285/75R17 tires.
Ground Clearance
With a diameter of 33.83 inches, the 285/75R17 provides 0.57 inches (14.5mm) more ground clearance than the 295/70R17, which measures 33.26 inches in diameter.
This added clearance can be advantageous for off-road driving, providing more room to traverse rocks, ruts, and other obstacles.
However, the larger 285/75R17 diameter results in a slightly lower speedometer reading than the 295/70R17 one. Conversely, the reduced clearance of the 295/70R17 increases the risks of scraping or damage from protruding objects or rough roads.
Gas Mileage
The 295/70R17’s smaller contact patch and reduced rotating mass make it the more fuel-efficient choice between the two sizes.
With less rolling resistance, keeping the tires moving requires slightly less energy, benefiting mileage. This difference is modest but can add up over high-mileage driving.
Ride Comfort
With a taller 75 aspect ratio sidewall, the 285/75R17 absorbs road imperfections better, providing a slightly smoother ride over uneven pavement and cracks. Its extra sidewall cushioning reduces the impact of harshness felt in the cabin.
The 295/70R17’s shorter 70 aspect ratio transmits more road vibration into the chassis. However, both sizes still deliver a comfortable ride quality.
Aesthetics
Visually, the two sizes are difficult to distinguish. The 285/75R17 will have a subtly taller sidewall, giving it a slightly “stretched” look compared to the 295/70R17. This taller profile complements the rugged aesthetic of certain truck and SUV styles.
Handling & Stability
The 295/70R17’s shorter sidewall enables marginally quicker steering response and handling agility on pavement than the 285/75R17. The taller 285/75R17 sidewall flexes more, reducing handling precision slightly.
However, the 285/75R17’s extra cushioning provides better stability and traction on loose or uneven terrain like gravel or dirt. Both deliver responsive, stable handling overall.
Noise & Vibration
With its shorter, stiffer sidewall, the 295/70R17 transmits more road noise and vibration into the cabin. The 285/75R17’s additional sidewall flex better dampens noise and vibration from the road surface. However, both tires keep the cabin quiet and comfortable while driving.
Durability
The 295/70R17’s shorter sidewall and smaller contact patch may promote more even treadwear across the tire’s face.
The 285/75R17’s larger size puts more stress on the tire which could accelerate wear, albeit marginally. Either tire will deliver strong tread life.
Adverse Conditions
The 295/70R17’s smaller profile in snow and ice may help cut through to the road surface more effectively, enhancing winter traction. The 285/75R17’s added ground clearance gives it an advantage in traversing deep snow or clearance obstacles.
Overall, both sizes perform well across various conditions, from rain and snow to light off-roading. The 285/75R17 has a slight traction edge off-road, while the 295/70R17 handles ice marginally better.
Speedometer Difference
At an actual vehicle speed of 20 mph, the speedometer reading is slightly lower with 295/70r17 tires compared to 285/75r17 tires.
Specifically, the speedometer indicates 19.66 mph with the 295 tires and 20.00 mph with the 285. This 0.34 mph difference is attributable to the smaller diameter of the 295 tires.
While drivers may notice a minor decrease in indicated speed with the 295, the discrepancy between these tire sizes is relatively small overall.
What Does 285 75r17 Tire Mean?
The 285 75r17 tire is a popular size for many vehicles. The “285” refers to the tire’s width in millimeters, while the “75” refers to the sidewall height.
The “r” indicates that it is a radial tire, and the “17” refers to the diameter of the wheel in inches. They offer a good balance of traction and stability and can be used in off-road and on-road applications.
Our Observation
Based on the comparisons above, I recommend the 285/75R17 as the best overall choice between these two tire sizes. The slightly taller sidewall provides a bit more ground clearance and cushioning that suits trucks and SUVs well without major handling compromises.
While the 295/70R17 offers marginally better steering response and winter traction, the differences seem minor. For most drivers, the 285/75R17’s blend of off-road clearance, ride comfort, and durable construction makes it the most versatile option.
The minor speedometer discrepancy is a small price to pay for the 285/75R17’s capabilities on and off the road. Ultimately, it provides most truck and SUV owners with the best balance of attributes.
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.
