Tire Size 305/70r17 vs 285/75r17
The main difference between 305/70r17 and 285/75r17 tires is the width. The 305/70r17 tires are 0.79 inches (20mm) wider than the 285/75r17 tires. This width difference impacts various performance factors.
285/75r17 vs 305/70r17
At a glance, this table of comparison will enable you to comprehend the distinction.
Fitment Guide
Both tire sizes have a similar overall diameter, only differing by 0.02 inches (0.5mm) or 0.1%.
This minor difference is well within the 3% limit for direct replacement without adjustments. So 285/75r17 tires can directly replace 305/70r17 tires without any fitment issues.
Ground Clearance
With nearly identical diameters, these two sizes offer the same ground clearance. Drivers will not gain or lose any clearance with either tire. This makes both suitable for the same conditions without any clearance drawbacks.
Gas Mileage
The 285/75r17 is slightly narrower and lighter than the 305/70r17. This can provide a minor improvement in gas mileage, though the difference is modest. Rotational mass is marginally reduced with the 285-width tires.
Ride Comfort
The narrower 285/75r17 may transmit slightly more road imperfections into the cabin than the wider 305/70r17.
The added cushioning from the wider tread width can absorb more vibration for a smoother ride. However, both provide comfortable ride quality.
Aesthetics
The 305/70r17 has a bulkier, more aggressive visual appearance compared to the 285/75r17. The extra width fills out the wheel well more.
Some drivers prefer the looks of the wider 305 tire, while others favor the more streamlined 285 width.
Handling & Stability
The 285/75r17 offers slightly quicker steering response and precision around corners due to the reduced width.
The 305/70r17 provides a bit more stability through turns with its broader tread. However, both deliver responsive, stable handling overall.
Noise & Vibration
The narrower 285/75r17 transmits marginally more road noise and vibration into the cabin.
The 305/70r17’s extra tread width helps absorb more noise for a slightly quieter, smoother ride. However, both are relatively quiet and comfortable.
Durability & Wear
The 285/75r17 concentrates more wear with a narrower tread over a smaller contact patch area.
The 305/70r17 distributes wear over a broader area for potentially improved tread life. Impact damage resistance is also slightly better with the wider 305 tire.
Adverse Conditions
Performance in rain, snow, and off-road conditions is comparable between the two sizes. The minor width difference does not significantly impact traction or handling in adverse conditions. Both perform well overall.
Speedometer Reading
Due to the nearly identical diameters, there is a negligible speedometer difference between these sizes. At a given actual speed, the speedometer readings will be very close between the 305/70r17 and 285/75r17.
Our Observation
The primary difference between 305/70r17 and 285/75r17 tires is width, with the 305 being 0.79 inches wider. This extra width provides some ride comfort, aesthetic, and durability benefits for the 305 tire.
However, the narrower 285 tire is lighter and slightly more fuel-efficient. While wider 305 tires look more aggressive and resist impacts better, narrower 285 tires are more responsive and efficient.
Overall, performance differences are minor between the two sizes. Drivers can choose based on visual preference, with the 305 favoring style and the 285 optimizing efficiency.
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.
