Tire Size 285/75r18 vs 35×12.5r18
Are you considering switching from 285/75R18 to 35×12.5R18 tires? While the difference in diameter is within the acceptable range of 3%, there are some key factors to consider before making the change. Here are the top key points of switching from 285/75R18 to 35×12.5R18 tires:
- The 0.6% difference in diameter is within the acceptable range, minimizing fitment issues
- The 11.6% increase in width may slightly impact ride comfort and fuel efficiency
- Wider tires offer improved traction and a more aggressive look for off-road use
- Minor differences in sidewall height and revolutions per mile have negligible effects
- Consider your vehicle and driving needs before making the switch for optimal performance
285/75r18 vs 35×12.5r18 Table
The primary difference between 285/75R18 and 35×12.5R18 tires lies in their width. The 35×12.5R18 tires are 1.3 inches (33 mm) wider than the 285/75R18 tires, representing an 11.6% increase in width.
Fitment Guide
Switching from 285/75R18 to 35×12.5R18 results in a 0.2-inch (4.98 mm) increase in overall diameter. This minimal change, within the 3% acceptable range, ensures you won’t need significant adaptations like leveling or lift kits. The tires will fit without causing issues such as rubbing.
On-Road Impact
Switching from 285/75R18 to 35×12.5R18 tires can have several effects on your vehicle’s on-road performance. Let’s explore some of the key areas that may be impacted:
- Ride Comfort: The wider 35×12.5R18 tires may result in a slightly firmer ride due to their increased width and shorter sidewall height. However, the difference in sidewall height is only 0.1 inches (2.49 mm), which is a negligible 1.2% difference. As a result, the impact on ride comfort should be minimal.
- Speedometer Accuracy: The data shows that the speedometer difference is minor. At a speedo reading of 20 mph (32.19 km/h), the actual speed would be 20.11 mph (32.37 km/h) with the 35×12.5R18 tires. This difference is negligible and should not significantly affect your speedometer’s accuracy.
- Gas Mileage: The wider 35×12.5R18 tires may slightly impact your vehicle’s gas mileage due to increased rolling resistance. However, the difference in circumference between the two tire sizes is only 0.62 inches (15.65 mm), or 0.6%. This small difference suggests that the impact on fuel efficiency should be minimal.
Off-Road Impact
For those who enjoy off-road adventures, switching to 35×12.5R18 tires can offer some benefits. Here are a few areas where the larger tires may enhance your off-road experience:
- Ground Clearance: The slightly taller 35×12.5R18 tires can provide a small increase in ground clearance. With a difference of 0.2 inches (4.98 mm) in diameter, this increase may be beneficial when navigating rough terrain or obstacles.
- Traction: The wider 35×12.5R18 tires offer a larger contact patch with the ground, which can improve traction in off-road conditions. The 11.6% increase in width can provide better grip on loose surfaces like sand, mud, or gravel.
- Aesthetics: Many off-road enthusiasts prefer the aggressive look of larger tires. The 35×12.5R18 tires can give your vehicle a more rugged and capable appearance, which may be desirable for those who want to stand out on the trails.
What is the Difference Between 285/75R18 and 35×12.5R18?
The main difference between 285/75R18 and 35×12.5R18 tires lies in their width. The 35×12.5R18 tire is significantly wider than the 285/75R18 tire, with a difference of 1.3 inches (33 mm) or 11.6%.
This increased width can affect various aspects of vehicle performance, such as ride comfort, fuel efficiency, and traction, especially in off-road conditions where wider tires may provide better grip on loose surfaces.
Can I Use 35×12.5R18 Instead of 285/75R18?
Yes, you can use 35×12.5R18 tires instead of 285/75R18 tires. The diameter difference between these two tire sizes is 0.2 inches (4.98 mm) or 0.6%, which falls within the generally acceptable range of 3%.
This means that switching from 285/75R18 to 35×12.5R18 tires should not cause any significant fitment issues or negatively impact vehicle performance.
How Much Taller Is a 35×12.5R18 Tire Than a 285/75R18?
A 35×12.5R18 tire is 0.2 inches (4.98 mm) taller than a 285/75R18 tire. The diameter of a 285/75R18 tire is 34.83 inches (884.7 mm), while the diameter of a 35×12.5R18 tire is 35.03 inches (889.68 mm). The difference in height between these two tire sizes is relatively small at 0.6%.
How Much Wider is a 35×12.5R18 Tire Than a 285/75R18?
A 35×12.5R18 tire is 1.3 inches (33 mm) wider than a 285/75R18 tire. The width of a 285/75R18 tire is 11.22 inches (285 mm), whereas the width of a 35×12.5R18 tire is 12.52 inches (318 mm).
This difference in width is substantial at 11.6%, which can have implications for vehicle performance, especially in terms of traction and handling.
Our Observations
After analyzing the differences between 285/75R18 and 35×12.5R18 tires, we can conclude that the impact of switching between these sizes is relatively minor in most aspects.
The 0.6% difference in diameter falls within the acceptable range, meaning that fitment issues are unlikely. On-road performance, including ride comfort, speedometer accuracy, and gas mileage, should not be significantly affected.
Off-road enthusiasts may appreciate the slight increase in ground clearance and improved traction provided by the wider tires. However, it’s essential to consider your specific vehicle and driving needs before making the switch.
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.