285 vs 315 Tires

 

The main difference between a 285 and a 315 tire is the tread width, with the 315 being wider by 30mm (1.18 inches). This translates to a 10.5% increase in tread width for the 315 over the 285.

285 vs 315 Table

To understand the key differences between two tire sizes, let’s refer to this table chart.

Tire Size 285	Tire Size 315
Narrower Tread Width	Wider Tread Width
Better Fuel Efficiency	More Traction & Stability
Smoother Highway Ride	More Cushioning Over Rough Terrain
Lower Cost	More Rugged Visual Appeal
More Responsive Handling	Enhanced Off-Road Handling
Quieter Ride	Better Vibration Dampening
More Even Tread Wear	Withstands Impacts Better
Cuts Through Snow/Ice	Additional Traction in Mud
Accurate Speedometer Reading	Speedometer Reads Lower

Ground Clearance

A 315 tire will provide slightly more ground clearance due to its larger overall diameter. This can be beneficial for off-roading or driving over rough terrain, reducing the risk of bottoming out or scraping obstacles. However, the speedometer may read lower than the actual speed with the taller 315 tires.

Gas Mileage

The 285 tire’s smaller contact patch and lower rotational mass give it a slight fuel efficiency advantage over the 315. The 285 is ideal for daily drivers or long trips with gas prices fluctuating. But the 315’s wider tread provides more traction, aiding stability and control.

Ride Comfort

The 285 offers a marginally smoother ride, especially on the highway, owing to its shorter sidewall and smaller contact patch. But the 315’s extra sidewall cushioning gives it an edge in absorbency over rough surfaces. Overall, the comfort difference is minor between the two.

Aesthetics Look

Visually, the 315 has a more aggressive, rugged look, while the 285 appears slightly sleeker. However, aesthetic preference varies from person to person. Neither tire size significantly impacts overall vehicle styling.

Handling & Stability

The 285’s smaller size provides a nimbler steering response and handling on paved roads. But the 315’s wider tread equates to enhanced stability and traction on loose or uneven terrain. Handling difference is moderate depending on conditions.

Noise & Vibration

The 285 generates slightly less road noise with a narrower tread, especially on smooth roads. But the 315’s extra air volume and sidewall height help dampen vibrations from irregularities. Noise and vibration difference is minor.

Durability & Wear

The 285 may exhibit more even treadwear over time due to its smaller contact patch. But the 315’s larger size allows it to better withstand impacts, curbing, and other stresses before needing replacement. Overall durability is comparable.

Adverse Conditions

The 285 can cut through to the pavement more efficiently in snow or ice. But in muddy or very rough terrain, the 315’s wider tread provides an advantage in traction. Performance depends greatly on conditions.

Speedometer

Due to its larger overall diameter, the 315 will register as lower speeds on the speedometer than actual speed. Drivers should be aware of this discrepancy and adjust their driving habits accordingly. The 285 provides a more accurate speedometer readout.

How Much Wider Is A 315 Tire Than A 285?

The 315 tire is 30 millimeters wider than the 285 tire. Specifically, a 285 tire has a width of 285 millimeters, while a 315 tire has a width of 315 millimeters. This means the 315 tire is approximately 10.5% wider than the 285 tire.

How Much Taller Is A 315 Tire Than A 285?

The overall height of a tire depends on various factors, such as the aspect ratio, wheel diameter, and the specific tire model. However, assuming both tires have the same aspect ratio and wheel diameter, a 315 tire is generally taller than a 285 tire.

For example, let’s consider the tire size of 315/75r16 and 285/75r16. Assuming the same aspect ratio of 75 and wheel diameter of 16 inches, the overall height of the 315 tires can be calculated as follows:

• (75% of 315 mm x 2) + 16 inches = 34.6 inches

Similarly, the overall height of the 285 tires can be calculated as follows:

• (75% of 285 mm x 2) + 16 inches = 32.83 inches

Therefore, the 315 tires would be approximately 1.77 inches or 45 millimeters taller than the 285 tires, assuming the same aspect ratio and wheel diameter. However, it’s important to note that the actual difference in overall height can vary depending on the specific tire model and other factors, so it’s always best to consult the manufacturer’s specifications for accurate measurements.

Can I Replace 285 Tires With 315?

Based on the rim width range, you can Replace 285 Tires With 315. But keep a few things in mind before you make this change. Such as the specifications of your vehicle, the clearance in your wheel well, and the compatibility of the 315 tires with your existing wheel size.

First, it’s important to check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or consult a trusted mechanic to determine the maximum tire size your vehicle can safely accommodate. If your vehicle is compatible with a tire size 315, you’ll also need to ensure enough clearance in your wheel to accommodate the wider tire.

Additionally, you’ll need to ensure the 315 tire is compatible with your existing wheel size. The 315 tire typically requires a wider wheel than a 285 tire, so you must ensure your current wheels are wide enough to mount the 315 tires safely.

The 285 tires can usually be mounted on a wheel with a width ranging from 8.5 to 10.5 inches, and a 315 tire is recommended to be used with a rim width ranging from 9.5 to 11.5 inches. Since both tire sizes overlap the recommended rim width range, they are potentially interchangeable.

Our Observation
While on paper the 315 appears superior for traction and stability, especially off-road, I don’t think most drivers would notice a dramatic improvement over the 285.

For my needs, the 285 provides sufficient grip and absorbs bumps adequately at a lower cost. I don’t require heavy-duty traction or ride height, so I would likely opt for the 285’s performance, value, and fuel efficiency balance. The 315 intrigues me, but it seems like it is optional for my purposes.

• 295 vs 315 Tires