Tire Size 295/60r20 vs 295/65r20
The main difference between 295/60r20 and 295/65r20 tires is the sidewall height. The 295/65r20 tire size has a 0.58-inch taller sidewall than the 295/60r20. The sidewall height is the measurement from the tread to the bead.
| / | 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 original tire’s overall diameter to avoid clearance issues or speedometer inaccuracies.
The overall diameter of the 295/65r20 is 3.4% larger than the 295/60r20. So, the 295/65r20 may require adaptations like a lift kit to accommodate the larger size if replacing 295/60r20 tires.
Ground Clearance
The 295/65r20 tire size provides 0.58 inches more ground clearance than the 295/60r20 owing to its taller sidewall height.
This added clearance benefits off-road driving, helping prevent scrapes and damage from obstacles or rough terrain. However, the larger diameter 295/65r20 also causes a lower speedometer reading than the 295/60r20.
Gas Mileage
The 295/60r20 tire should offer slightly better fuel efficiency than the 295/65r20. With a smaller diameter and less rotational mass, the 295/60r20 has lower rolling resistance.
This can improve gas mileage, an important consideration for daily driving. The larger 295/65r20 may detract from fuel economy due to more excellent rolling resistance.
Ride Comfort
The taller 70 aspect ratio sidewall of the 295/65r20 provides more cushioning than the 60 aspect ratio of the 295/60r20.
This extra sidewall flex absorbs road impacts, leading to a smoother ride over uneven pavement and bumps. The difference is modest but could be noticeable on rough roads.
Aesthetics
Visually, the difference in appearance between the two sizes is minor. The 295/65r20 will have a slightly taller sidewall, giving it a subtly “stretched” look versus the 295/60r20.
For some vehicles, this taller profile better suits the aesthetic than an overly low-profile tire.
Handling & Stability
The 295/60r20’s shorter sidewall enables better responsiveness and handling precision, especially on paved roads.
The taller 295/65r20 sidewall exhibits more flex, reducing handling sharpness slightly. However, both provide stable, responsive handling for their intended use.
Noise & Vibration
With a shorter, stiffer sidewall, the 295/60r20 transmits more road noise and vibration into the cabin. The extra flex of the 295/65r20 sidewall dampens noise and vibrations better. However, differences are minor, and ride comfort is similar.
Durability & Wear
The 295/60r20’s smaller size may promote more even treadwear and potentially longer life.
The larger 295/65r20 puts more stress on components, which could impact suspension wear. But both exhibit good durability with proper maintenance.
Adverse Conditions
Both tires perform well in rain, snow, and off-road conditions. The 295/65r20’s extra ground clearance gives it a slight edge off-road, while the 295/60r20’s shorter sidewall makes it a bit more responsive. But they handle adverse conditions similarly.
Speedometer Difference
The 295/65r20 causes the speedometer to read higher than the 295/60r20. At an actual speed of 20 mph, the speedometer reads 20.68 mph with 295/65r20 tires equipped.
But with 295/60r20 tires, the speedometer reads 20 mph at the same actual 20 mph speed. The difference is 0.68 mph.
What Does 295 65r20 Tire Mean?
The 295/60r20 Tire Size is a set of numbers that tell you the important details about a tire. In this case, the 295 is the tire’s width in millimeters. The 60 is the aspect ratio, meaning the tire’s height is 60% of its width.
In this case, the R stands for radial, meaning that the tire has crisscrossing cords beneath the tread. The 20 is the diameter of the wheel in inches that this tire size is intended for.
295/65r20 vs 295/60r20
This table provides an easy-to-read comparison of specified tire sizes.
Our Observation
Based on the comparisons, the 295/65r20 is better suited for off-road driving and absorbing road impacts thanks to its taller sidewall.
At the same time, the 295/60r20 excels on the pavement with sharper handling and potential fuel economy advantages from its shorter sidewall design.
The extra ground clearance of the 295/65r20 is highly beneficial for vehicles frequently going off-road. But for mainly street driving, the 295/60r20 offers a responsive ride with slightly better efficiency.
Overall, the 295/65r20 is recommended for rugged SUVs and trucks, while the 295/60r20 suits tuned sports cars and street performance vehicles.
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.
