Tire Size 245/75r16 vs 245/70r16
Thinking about swapping your tires but not sure what changes it might bring? Let’s break down the switch from 245/75r16 to 245/70r16.
- The 245/70R16 has a smaller diameter, lowering ground clearance.
- The same width maintains consistent handling characteristics.
- A shorter sidewall may provide better cornering stability.
- Reduced circumference can improve speedometer accuracy.
- The shorter tire may enhance fuel efficiency slightly.
- A decrease in revolutions per mile may affect performance metrics.
- Switching may result in a firmer ride due to less sidewall flex.
Fitment Guide
The diameter difference between tire sizes exceeds 3%, swapping them is generally not recommended. In this case, the difference is -3.2%, slightly beyond the acceptable range.
This means the interchange may not be ideal and could require adjustments to prevent issues like rubbing or clearance problems.
On-Road Impact
Understanding how the tire size change affects your daily driving is crucial. Here’s what to expect when you’re on the road:
Gas Mileage
Switching to a smaller tire like the 245/70r16 can slightly improve gas mileage. The reduced diameter decreases rolling resistance, which can make your vehicle more fuel-efficient, especially during city driving where stop-and-go traffic is common.
Ride Comfort
The 245/70r16 has a shorter sidewall height by about 0.48 inches. This means less cushioning between the wheel and the road. You might experience a firmer ride, which can enhance handling but may also transmit more bumps and vibrations into the cabin.
Speedometer Accuracy
A smaller tire rotates more times to cover the same distance, affecting your speedometer readings. For example, when your speedometer reads 20 mph, your actual speed is about 19.37 mph. This discrepancy could lead to minor speeding if you’re not aware of the difference.
Durability & Wear
The smaller sidewall of the 245/70r16 may be less flexible, potentially leading to increased wear if you frequently drive on rough roads. However, for typical on-road use, the difference in durability between the two sizes is usually negligible.
Off-Road Impact
Switching tire sizes also influences your vehicle’s performance off the beaten path. Here’s how the change plays out when you’re off-road:
Ground Clearance
Switching to the 245/70r16 reduces your vehicle’s ground clearance by approximately 0.48 inches. While this might seem minimal, it can make a difference when navigating over rocks, logs, or uneven terrain, potentially increasing the risk of undercarriage damage.
Traction
Off-road traction relies heavily on tire size and tread. The smaller diameter and reduced sidewall height of the 245/70r16 may result in slightly less traction on loose surfaces like mud or sand, which could affect your vehicle’s off-road performance.
Vehicle Capability
A smaller tire can impact your vehicle’s gearing ratios, potentially reducing torque and affecting climbing ability. Off-road enthusiasts may notice that the vehicle doesn’t perform as well on steep inclines or when pulling heavy loads.
Aesthetics Look
Visually, the 245/70r16 may make your vehicle appear slightly lower and less rugged. If you prefer a more aggressive stance or larger wheel wells filled by the tires, the smaller size might not meet your aesthetic preferences.
245/75r16 vs 245/70r16
This table compares the key features of tire sizes 245/75R16 and 245/70R16.
| Feature | 245/75R16 | 245/70R16 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter inches (mm) | 30.47 (773.9) | 29.5 (749.4) | -0.96 (-24.5) -3.2% |
| Width inches (mm) | 9.65 (245) | 9.65 (245) | 0 (0) 0% |
| Circumference inches (mm) | 95.72 (2431.28) | 92.69 (2354.31) | -3.03 (-76.97) -3.2% |
| Sidewall Height inches (mm) | 7.23 (183.75) | 6.75 (171.5) | -0.48 (-12.25) -6.7% |
| Revolutions per mile (km) | 661.93 (411.31) | 683.57 (424.75) | 21.64 (13.45) 3.3% |
| Speedo Reading | 20 mph (32.19 km/h) | 19.37 mph (31.17 km/h) | -0.63 mph |
Difference Between 245/75R16 and 245/70R16
The main difference is diameter; the 245/75R16 tire is 0.96 inches (24.5 mm) taller than the 245/70R16 tire, affecting ride height and ground clearance.
Can I Use 245/70R16 Instead of 245/75R16?
Yes, but the 245/70R16 tire is 3.2% smaller in diameter, which may affect speedometer accuracy, handling, and ground clearance. Ensure your vehicle can accommodate the smaller size.
How Much Taller Is a 245/75R16 Tire Than a 245/70R16?
The 245/75R16 tire is 0.96 inches (24.5 mm) taller than the 245/70R16, a 3.2% increase in overall diameter.
Our Observation
Switching from 245/75r16 to 245/70r16 offers a mix of benefits and drawbacks. On the positive side, you may enjoy improved fuel efficiency and enhanced handling on paved roads due to the smaller tire size.
The vehicle might feel more responsive, and the firmer ride can be a plus for some drivers. On the downside, the reduced ground clearance and altered speedometer readings can impact off-road performance and driving accuracy.
The difference in size slightly exceeds the recommended 3% limit, but for everyday on-road driving, the effects are mostly negligible.
However, if you’re an avid off-roader, the decreased ground clearance and potential loss in traction could affect your vehicle’s capability in challenging terrains.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your driving needs and preferences. If you prioritize on-road performance and fuel economy, the switch could be beneficial. If off-road prowess is essential, you might want to stick with the original tire size.
Caitlin McCormack is a lead writer at Tiresizecompare.com and a trusted guide at AmarCalculator. With an extensive background in finance and mathematics, she simplifies complex calculations and delivers precise insights. Caitlin’s expertise ensures readers receive accurate and reliable information to make informed decisions. Her passion for numbers and dedication to clarity make her an invaluable resource for tire comparisons.
