Tire Size 295/70r17 vs 315/70r17
The main difference between tire sizes 295/70r17 and 315/70r17 lies in the section width. The tire size 315/70r17 is 20 mm wider than the 295/70r17 tire size. Let’s explore how these sizes differ based on that.
| / | R |
| / | R |
| Parameter | 235/35 R18 | 205/40 R18 | Differ. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tire Height | |||
| Section Width | |||
| Circumference | |||
| Sidewall Height | |||
| Revolutions | |||
| Rim Size |
Fitment Guide
The 315/70r17 is around 3.3% larger in overall diameter than the 295/70r17. This crosses the 3% replacement tire barrier, so adapting the vehicle with lifts or leveling kits may be necessary to prevent fitment issues.
The wider 315 tread may also require wheel well modifications to prevent rubbing at full lock.
Ground Clearance
With a diameter of 34.36 inches, the 315/70R17 provides 1.1 inches more ground clearance than the 295/70R17 at 33.26 inches.
This extra clearance is useful for off-road driving, helping clear obstacles and uneven terrain. However, it also causes the speedometer to read lower than the actual vehicle speed.
Gas Mileage
The heavier 315/70R17 likely has slightly worse fuel efficiency than the 295/70R17. The larger size increases rolling resistance and rotational mass, damaging gas mileage.
This makes the 295 more ideal for commuting and highway travel from an efficiency standpoint.
Ride Comfort
The taller 70 aspect ratio sidewall 315 absorbs bumps and impacts better than the 295. This cushier sidewall renders a more comfortable ride over uneven or broken pavement. The downside is marginally less responsive handling.
Aesthetics
Visually, the 315 has a slightly “stretched” look owing to its taller sidewall versus the 295. To some, this suits the aesthetic of trucks and SUVs better than a low-profile appearance. Subjectively, the taller 70 profile suits off-road-oriented vehicles well.
Handling & Stability
The 295’s shorter sidewall enables sharper turn-in and handling versus the flexier 315. However, both deliver responsive, stable handling for everyday driving. The 315’s extra traction helps stability somewhat off-road.
Noise & Vibration
The 295/70R17’s stiffer sidewall transmits more road noise and vibration into the cabin. The 315/70R17’s additional air volume and sidewall flex better absorbs noise and vibration for a smoother ride.
Durability & Wear
The 315’s larger contact patch and overall size mean more stress on components. This could potentially accelerate wear on parts like wheel bearings. Even tread wear may be slightly worse as well.
Adverse Conditions
Both handle rain, snow, and off-road conditions well. The taller 315 provides more ground clearance for clearing obstacles or deep snow, while the 295’s responsiveness is an advantage on icy roads.
Speedometer Difference
The 315/70r17 tires cause the speedometer to read 0.34 mph higher than the 295/70r17 tires at an actual vehicle speed of 20 mph.
Specifically, the 295/70r17 tires result in a speedometer reading of 20 mph, while the larger diameter 315/70r17 tires cause the speedometer to read 20.66 mph.
This difference of 0.34 mph is due to the larger tire size, so drivers should be aware of this variance when switching between these two tire sizes.
Can You Use 295r70r17 Instead Of 315/70r17?
It is not advised to use 295/70r17 tires instead of 315/70r17 tires. This is because the diameter difference between the two is 3.3%, which is beyond the recommended limit of 3%.
The difference in diameter can affect the accuracy of the speedometer and handling of the vehicle. It is important to ensure that the replacement tire has a load capacity equal to or greater than the original for safety and optimal performance.
How Much Taller Is A 315/70r17 Tire Than A 295/70r17?
The 315/70r17 tire is 1.1 inches (28 mm) taller than the 295/70r17 tire, resulting in a 3.3% difference in diameter.
The 315/70r17 tire stands tall at 34.36 inches or 872.8mm, whereas the 295/70r17 tire is slightly shorter, measuring 33.26 inches or 844.8mm tall.
How Much Wider Is A 315/70r17 Tire Than A 295/70r17?
The 315/70r17 tire is 0.79 inches (20 mm) wider than a 295/70r17, resulting in a 6.8% increase in width. The width of the 295/70r17 is 11.61 inches (295 mm), while the 315/70r17 measures 12.4 inches (315 mm).
This difference in width provides the 315/70r17 with a broader footprint, contributing to enhanced stability and handling on various terrains.
315/70r17 vs 295/70r17
What Does 315/70r17 Mean?
The tire size “315/70R17” is defined by three key elements. The “315” represents the tire’s width in millimeters, approximately 315 mm.
The “70” indicates the aspect ratio, with the tire’s height being 70% of its width. Lastly, “R17” signifies a radial construction for a 17-inch wheel diameter. The tire size 315/70R17 is the same as 34.4×12.4R17 when measured in inches.
What Does 295/70r17 Mean?
The alphanumeric code 295/70R17 contains significant details regarding a tire’s dimensions and features. The number 295 represents the tire’s width in millimeters, while 70 is the aspect ratio, indicating that the tire’s height is 70% of its width.
The letter R stands for radial construction, and the number 17 is the wheel rim diameter in inches that the tire fits. You can express the tire size 295/70R17 as 33.3×11.6R17 in inches.
Our Observation
Based on the comparisons above, the 295/70R17 is best suited for on-road driving, providing better fuel efficiency, handling, and even tread wear.
The 315/70R17 is preferable for off-road use, with increased ground clearance, cushioned ride quality, and improved traction.
For mixed usage, we slightly favor the 295 for its versatility – the efficiency and road handling are ideal for daily driving while retaining decent off-road clearance and traction. Overall, unless regularly traversing rugged terrain, the 295/70R17 is the best-balanced choice for most drivers.
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.
