Tire Size 285/75r17 vs 33×12.5r17
The main difference between 285/75r17 and 33×12.5r17 tire size lies in the section width. The tire size 33×12.5r17 is about 1.3 inch wider than the 285/75r17 tire size. Let’s compare these two tire sizes.
| / | R |
| / | R |
| Parameter | 235/35 R18 | 205/40 R18 | Differ. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tire Height | |||
| Section Width | |||
| Circumference | |||
| Sidewall Height | |||
| Revolutions | |||
| Rim Size |
Fitment Guide
To avoid issues, the new size should be within 3% of the original tire’s diameter when replacing tires.
The 33×12.5r17 is 2.4% smaller in diameter than the 285/75r17, so it falls within the safe replacement range. However, the wider 33×12.5r17 may require modifications like a leveling kit to prevent rubbing.
Ground Clearance
With a diameter of 33.03 inches, the 33×12.5r17 provides 0.81 inches less ground clearance than the 285/75r17 at 33.83 inches.
This reduced clearance increases the risk of scraping on obstacles. However, the lower profile aesthetic may be preferential for some vehicles.
Gas Mileage
The lighter 33×12.5r17 size with less rolling resistance can provide slightly better fuel efficiency over the 285/75r17. But the difference is modest, given their similar diameters.
Ride Comfort
The 33×12.5r17 offers a firmer ride with its shorter 8.01-inch sidewall versus 8.42 inches on the 285/75r17. This transmits more road impacts into the cabin, but some prefer the responsive handling.
Aesthetics
Visually, the 33×12.5r17 appears more muscular with its wider tread and lower profile sidewall than the 285/75r17. This aggressive look suits trucks and SUVs well.
Handling & Stability
The 285/75r17’s taller sidewall flexes more, reducing handling precision slightly. In contrast, the 33×12.5r17’s shorter sidewall height and wider tread make it feel more planted and responsive during cornering.
Noise & Vibration
With a shorter sidewall, the 33×12.5r17 transmits more road noise and vibration over bumps. The 285/75r17 dampens vibrations better for a smoother, quieter ride. But both absorb impacts reasonably well.
Durability & Wear
The 285/75r17 may exhibit slightly more even tread wear over time, given its narrower width. The wider 33×12.5r17 distributes the load over more rubber, but the difference in wear is minor between these sizes.
Adverse Conditions
In snow, the narrower 285/75r17 can cut through to the pavement better, while the wider 33×12.5r17 floats more. Off-road, the 33×12.5r17 provides a traction advantage from its sizable footprint.
Speedometer Reading
The 285/75r17 diameter causes a higher speedometer reading than the smaller 33×12.5r17. At an actual speed of 20 mph, the speedometer reads 1.52 mph higher with the 285/75r17 size.
What Size is A 33×12.5r17?
The 33×12.5R17 tire has a diameter of 33 inches (839 mm), a section width of 12.5 inches (317.5 mm), and fits a wheel with a diameter of 17 inches.
How Tall Is A 285/75r17 Tire?
The height of a 285/75R17 tire is approximately 33.9 inches (860 mm). This measurement represents the tire’s height or diameter, which is the distance from the ground to the top of the tire.
285/75r17 vs 33×12.5r17
This comparison table is designed to provide you with a quick and easy way to understand the differences.
Our Observation
The 285/75R17 offers slightly better ride comfort and noise isolation thanks to its taller sidewall, while the 33×12.5R17 provides a more aggressive aesthetic, better handling, and improved off-road traction from its wider tread and lower profile.
For an SUV or truck used mainly on-road, the 285/75R17 is likely the better choice for its smoother ride and quieter cabin.
For off-road adventures or improved cornering on pavement, the 33×12.5R17 is recommended for its stability and traction advantages. The differences are minor, so choosing based on intended use and personal preference is advised.
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.
