Tire Size 235/65r16 vs 235/70r16
Are you considering switching from 235/65R16 to 235/70R16 tires on your vehicle? While the tire width remains the same at 235mm, there are some key differences in diameter and sidewall height that are important to understand before making the switch.
- Slightly improved ground clearance and off-road traction
- Somewhat softer ride and better bump absorption
- Minor improvement in fuel economy and braking performance
- Small reduction in steering response and cornering stability
On-Road Impact
How will switching to the taller 235/70R16 tires affect your vehicle’s on-road performance? Let’s take a look at a few key areas:
- Speedometer Accuracy: Because 235/70R16 tires have a 3.3% larger circumference, your speedometer will read about 3.2% slower than your actual speed if the speedometer is not recalibrated. So at an indicated 20 mph, you’d actually be going 20.66 mph.
- Fuel Economy: The taller tires will reduce your engine’s RPMs at a given speed, which can slightly improve fuel efficiency. However, the heavier 235/70R16 tires may offset some of that benefit.
- Handling: The taller sidewall of the 235/70R16 tires provides more cushioning, which can result in a somewhat softer, more compliant ride compared to 235/65R16 tires. However, the taller sidewalls also allow more flex during cornering and braking, which can slightly reduce responsiveness.
- Braking: The larger tire diameter effectively increases your final drive ratio, which can mildly improve braking performance. But again, the added sidewall flex may counteract some of this benefit.
Off-Road Impact
If you take your vehicle off the beaten path, here’s what you can expect from the switch to 235/70R16 tires:
- Ground Clearance: The 0.93″ (23.5mm) taller tire diameter of the 235/70R16 size will raise your vehicle by about half that amount, providing a bit more ground clearance for clearing rocks and other obstacles.
- Traction: The taller sidewalls allow the 235/70R16 tires to flex and conform to uneven terrain better, which can moderately improve off-road traction, especially at lower air pressures.
- Durability: More sidewall rubber between your wheel and the ground means more protection against sidewall punctures from sharp rocks and sticks when venturing off-road. The 235/70R16 has 7.7% more sidewall height than the 235/65R16.
- Gearing: The larger diameter of the 235/70R16 tires will numerically lower your gearing by around 3%, which improves crawl ratio but reduces top speed. Your engine will work slightly less at any given speed.
Difference Between 235/65R16 and 235/70R16
The main difference between 235/65R16 and 235/70R16 tires is the sidewall height. The 235/70R16 tires have a sidewall that is 0.46 inches (11.75 mm) taller than the 235/65R16 tires. This results in an overall diameter difference of 0.93 inches (23.5 mm).
235/65r16 vs 235/70r16
This table compares the tire sizes 235/65R16 and 235/70R16, highlighting their specifications and differences.
| Feature | 235/65R16 | 235/70R16 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter inches (mm) | 28.03 (711.9) | 28.95 (735.4) | 0.93 (23.5) +3.3% |
| Width inches (mm) | 9.25 (235) | 9.25 (235) | 0 (0) 0% |
| Circumference inches (mm) | 88.05 (2236.5) | 90.96 (2310.33) | 2.91 (73.83) +3.3% |
| Sidewall Height inches (mm) | 6.01 (152.75) | 6.48 (164.5) | 0.46 (11.75) +7.7% |
| Revolutions per mile (km) | 719.58 (447.13) | 696.59 (432.84) | -22.99 (-14.29) -3.2% |
| Speedo Reading | 20 mph | 20.66 mph | +0.66 mph |
Can I Use 235/70R16 Instead of 235/65R16?
Using 235/70R16 tires instead of 235/65R16 is possible but not ideal. The overall diameter difference of 3.3% slightly exceeds the recommended 3% guideline.
While the switch can be made, minor modifications may be necessary to ensure proper fitment and prevent rubbing or clearance issues.
How Much Taller Is a 235/70R16 Tire Than a 235/65R16?
A 235/70R16 tire is approximately 0.93 inches (23.5 mm) taller than a 235/65R16 tire.
The 235/65R16 has a diameter of 28.03 inches (711.9 mm), while the 235/70R16 measures 28.95 inches (735.4 mm) tall. This height difference is primarily due to the taller sidewall of the 235/70R16 size.
Our Observation
After analyzing the differences between 235/65R16 and 235/70R16 tires, we believe switching to the taller tire can provide some benefits with relatively minimal drawbacks, as long as a few precautions are taken.
The 3.3% larger tire diameter does slightly exceed the recommended 3% tolerance, so consulting a tire professional about any necessary minor modifications is prudent.
On-road, you may notice a small reduction in handling responsiveness, but ride quality, braking, and fuel economy should slightly improve.
Off-road, the taller tire provides welcomed increases in ground clearance, traction, and sidewall durability, all for the small tradeoff of a 3% gearing reduction.
Overall, if you’re willing to make a few tweaks to accommodate the size difference, stepping up to 235/70R16 tires can moderately improve your vehicle’s all-around performance and capability.
Asma Akter is the lead writer at Tiresizecompare.com, bringing her expertise to the automotive industry. With a strong background in technical writing and a passion for clear communication, Asma excels at breaking down complex tire-related information for readers. Her work helps consumers make informed decisions about tire sizes and compatibility, contributing to safer and more efficient vehicle operations.
