Tire Size 295/55r20 vs 305/55r20

The main difference between 295/55r20 and 305/55r20 tires is the section width. That means that the 305/55r20 tires are 10 millimeters wider than the 295/55r20 tires.

The wider 305/55r20 tires provide a larger contact patch and more traction, but the narrower 295/55r20 tires are more fuel efficient.

Tire 1 Front View
Width
Dia.
Tire 2 Front View
Width
Dia.
Tire 1 Side View
Tire 1 Wheel
circumference 1
Circ.
Rim
Wall
Revs/Mile
Tire 2 Side View
Tire 2 Wheel
Circ.
Rim
Wall
Revs/Mile
/ R
/ R
Parameter 235/35 R18 205/40 R18 Differ.
Tire Height
Section Width
Circumference
Sidewall Height
Revolutions
Rim Size

 

Fitment Guide

Replacement tires should be within 3% of the diameter of the original tires to prevent clearance issues.

At only 1.3% larger in overall diameter, the 305/55r20 can directly replace the 295/55r20 without needing adaptations like a lift kit.

Gas Mileage

With a slightly smaller contact patch, the narrower 295/55r20 tire confers somewhat better fuel efficiency over the wider 305/55r20.

The 305/55r20’s larger width increases rolling resistance, reducing gas mileage. Over long distances, the 295/55r20’s fuel savings could be noticeable.

Ground Clearance

The 305/55r20 provides an extra 0.22 inches (5.5mm) of sidewall height over the 295/55r20, increasing ground clearance.

This added clearance aids off-road driving by helping prevent bottom-outs over obstacles. However, the 305/55r20’s larger overall diameter causes a 1.3% lower speedometer reading than the 295/55r20.

Ride Comfort

While the 295/55r20 may give a slightly smoother highway ride, the 305/55r20’s extra sidewall cushioning delivers better impact absorption. This provides a more comfortable ride over severely uneven terrain.

Aesthetics

Visually, the difference between these sizes is subtle. The 305/55r20 will have a slightly taller sidewall, giving the tire a more aggressive, “stretched” appearance than the 295/55r20. This suits some vehicles better aesthetically.

Handling & Stability

The 295/55r20’s shorter sidewall enables marginally quicker steering response and handling precision on pavement.

However, both sizes deliver responsive, stable handling for their intended use. Off-road, the 305/55r20 provides a bit more control.

Noise & Vibration

With a shorter, stiffer sidewall, the 295/55r20 transmits slightly more road noise and vibration into the cabin. The 305/55r20 better isolates road inputs, providing a quieter, smoother ride quality.

Durability & Wear

The narrower 295/55r20 exhibits potentially longer treadwear, evening out wear across the tire’s width. The wider 305/55r20 sees more stress concentration on its outer shoulders, causing uneven wear.

Adverse Conditions

In snow and ice, the narrower 295/55r20 cuts through to the pavement better, aiding traction.

The 305/55r20, while wider, handles moderate off-road conditions well with its additional ground clearance. Ultimately, both perform similarly in rain, snow, and light trail use.

Speedometer Reading

At an actual vehicle speed of 20 mph, the speedometer reads 20.26 mph with 305/55r20 tires equipped versus an indicated 20 mph with 295/55r20 tires. The 1.3% difference in rolling diameter causes this slight 0.26 mph variance.

Are 295 Tires Bigger Than 305?

The 295/55R20 tires are smaller than the 305/55R20 tires in terms of diameter. The 295/55R20 tires have an overall diameter of 32.78 inches (832.5 mm), while the 305/55R20 tires measure 33.21 inches (843.5 mm).

This difference of 0.43 inches (11 mm) or 1.3% indicates that the 305/55R20 tires are slightly larger than the 295/55R20 tires.

How Tall Is A 295/55r20 Tire?

The height of a 295/55r20 tire is 32.8 inches (832 mm). The height of a tire is usually measured as the diameter of the tire, which is the distance from one edge of the tire to the other, passing through the center.

295/55r20 vs 305/55r20

305/55r20 vs 295/55r20

This comparison table will allow you to quickly and easily distinguish the differences.

Our Observation
Both the 295/55r20 and 305/55r20 are high-performance tire sizes that deliver responsive handling, comfort, and capability.

However, the 295/55r20 stands out for its fuel efficiency, making it the best choice for daily drivers and commuters focused on maximizing mpg.

Meanwhile, due to its added width, the 305/55r20 offers advantages in off-road traction and rugged aesthetics, which better suits trucks, SUVs, and off-road needs.

Given the minor real-world differences, either tire size works well depending on priorities and intended vehicle use. For most drivers, the well-rounded 295/55r20 is the easiest to recommend.

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