Tire Size 315/70r17 vs 35×12.50r17
Are you considering upgrading your 315/70R17 tires to a larger 35×12.50R17 size? While the difference may seem small, it’s important to understand the implications before making the switch.
- Ground clearance will slightly increase with the taller 35×12.50r17 tires
- Fuel efficiency may slightly decrease due to fewer revolutions per mile
- Speedometer will read about 0.39 mph slower than actual speed at 20 mph
- Ride comfort may marginally improve with the taller sidewall absorbing bumps
315/70r17 vs 35×12.50r17
Fitment Guide
The new tires should be within 3% of the original tire’s diameter. In this case, the 1.9% difference between the 315/70R17 and 35×12.50R17 falls within the acceptable range.
However, it’s still crucial to consider the potential impact on your vehicle’s performance.
On-Road Impact
Switching to a taller tire can affect various aspects of your vehicle’s on-road performance. Here’s what you need to know:
- Ground Clearance: The 0.67-inch increase in tire diameter will slightly raise your vehicle’s ground clearance, which can be beneficial for avoiding obstacles and navigating rough roads.
- Gas Mileage: The larger 35×12.50R17 tires will cause your vehicle to have fewer revolutions per mile, potentially leading to a slight decrease in fuel efficiency.
- Speedometer Accuracy: The taller tires will cause your speedometer to read slightly slower than your actual speed. At 20 mph, your true speed would be around 20.39 mph.
- Ride Comfort: The larger tire size may slightly affect ride comfort, as the taller sidewall can absorb more road irregularities. However, the difference may be barely noticeable.
Off-Road Impact
If you frequently take your vehicle off-road, the switch to 35×12.50R17 tires can offer some advantages:
- Traction: The larger contact patch of the 35×12.50R17 tires can provide improved traction on loose surfaces like sand, mud, or gravel.
- Obstacle Clearance: The increased tire diameter allows for better clearance over rocks, logs, and other off-road obstacles.
- Aesthetics: Many off-road enthusiasts prefer the aggressive look of larger tires, and the 35×12.50R17 size can give your vehicle a more rugged appearance.
- Durability: The taller sidewall of the 35×12.50R17 tires offers more protection against punctures and damage from off-road hazards.
What is the Main Difference Between 315/70r17 and 35×12.50r17?
The main difference between 315/70r17 and 35×12.50r17 tires is the overall diameter. The 35×12.50r17 tires are 0.67 inches (16.92 mm) taller than the 315/70r17 tires, which equates to a 1.9% difference in diameter.
Can I Use 35×12.50r17 Instead of 315/70r17?
Yes, you can use 35×12.50r17 tires instead of 315/70r17 tires. The 1.9% difference in diameter between these two sizes falls within the generally acceptable range of ±3% for tire replacement.
How Much Taller Is a 35×12.50r17 Tire Than a 315/70r17?
A 35×12.50r17 tire is 0.67 inches (16.92 mm) taller than a 315/70r17 tire. This equates to a 1.9% difference in overall diameter between the two tire sizes.
How Much Wider is a 35×12.50r17 Tire Than a 315/70r17?
A 35×12.50r17 tire is 0.12 inches (3 mm) wider than a 315/70r17 tire. This represents a 1% difference in width between the two tire sizes.
Our Observation
After analyzing the differences between 315/70R17 and 35×12.50R17 tires, we’ve concluded that the switch is feasible for most vehicles. The 1.9% difference in diameter falls within the acceptable range, and the impact on on-road performance is minimal.
Off-road enthusiasts may appreciate the improved traction, clearance, and aesthetics the larger tires provide. However, it’s essential to consider the slight decrease in fuel efficiency and the potential need for speedometer recalibration.
As always, consult with a tire professional to ensure proper fitment and compatibility with your specific vehicle.
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.
I appreciate all the information you provided me, it was very good to make a decision when buying the tires.