Tire Size 255/70r18 vs 265/65r18
Thinking of switching from 255/70R18 to 265/65R18? Let’s see how these tires compare on different fronts to help you decide.
- Slightly wider tire provides increased road contact, improving traction.
- Reduced sidewall height may result in a firmer ride and decreased comfort.
- Lower overall tire height can slightly reduce ground clearance.
- Increased revolutions per mile may cause a minor impact on speedometer accuracy.
- Wider tread can enhance handling stability, especially during cornering.
- Reduced sidewall height can make the tires less ideal for off-road or rugged conditions.
- A smaller diameter may lead to a marginal reduction in fuel efficiency.
- Wider tires could provide a more aggressive aesthetic appearance.
Fitment Guide
If the difference exceeds this, the interchange is not recommended, as it could lead to compatibility issues. The 255/70R18 and 265/65R18 tire sizes have a diameter difference of approximately -1.5%, making them a feasible option without major modifications.
However, if you still decide to switch, minor adaptations may be needed to prevent problems like rubbing or clearance issues.
On-Road Impact
Switching to the 265/65R18 will impact several on-road parameters of your vehicle. Here’s how each aspect will be affected:
Gas Mileage
When you switch to 265/65R18, the wider tire increases road contact, which may result in slightly reduced fuel efficiency.
The increased traction translates to more rolling resistance, meaning your engine needs more power to move the vehicle, ultimately impacting your gas mileage. However, the difference in fuel consumption is generally minimal for regular commutes.
Ride Comfort
The sidewall height of the 265/65R18 tire is marginally lower compared to the 255/70R18.
This -0.25-inch reduction in sidewall height could lead to slightly stiffer ride comfort, especially on uneven surfaces. The reduced sidewall means less cushioning, which impacts the absorption of shocks from bumps.
Speedometer Accuracy
A switch to 265/65R18 affects speedometer readings. Since the overall diameter is slightly smaller, the tire rotates faster, leading to a 1.6% increase in revolutions per mile.
This means when your speedometer reads 20 mph, the actual speed is approximately 19.69 mph. Although the difference is small, it’s something to keep in mind.
Durability & Wear
The 265/65R18 tire’s wider tread provides more surface area in contact with the road, potentially distributing the wear more evenly and thus prolonging tire life.
However, with the wider tire, the sidewall height is shorter, making it more susceptible to sidewall damage from potholes.
Traction & Stability
A wider tire like the 265/65R18 means increased road contact, which generally improves traction. This is especially beneficial for vehicles that frequently drive on wet or dry pavement where improved contact enhances handling and stability.
However, the added width might also be susceptible to hydroplaning if water dispersion isn’t managed effectively.
Off-Road Impact
Switching from 255/70R18 to 265/65R18 also comes with notable off-road differences. Let’s take a closer look:
Ground Clearance
The slight reduction in overall diameter means that ground clearance is reduced by about -0.25 inches. For off-road enthusiasts, this difference may be noticeable when driving over rocky terrain or deep ruts. Lower ground clearance means you’re more likely to experience contact with obstacles.
Aesthetics Look
The 265/65R18 tire is wider and offers a slightly more aggressive stance compared to the 255/70R18. This enhances the overall look of the vehicle, giving it a more rugged and sportier aesthetic—a feature that’s often desirable in off-road builds. However, the reduced sidewall might make the wheels look less bulky.
Vehicle Capability
The wider contact patch on the 265/65R18 provides better traction off-road. This helps in situations like loose gravel, sand, or dirt, where a larger footprint helps prevent the vehicle from sinking.
However, the shorter sidewall could reduce your vehicle’s capability in rock crawling, as there is less flex in the sidewall to absorb sharp angles.
255/70r18 vs 265/65r18
This table compares the key features of the 255/70R18 and 265/65R18 tire sizes.
| Feature | 255/70R18 | 265/65R18 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter inches (mm) | 32.06 (814.2) | 31.56 (801.7) | -0.49 (-12.5) -1.5% |
| Width inches (mm) | 10.04 (255) | 10.43 (265) | 0.39 (10) +3.9% |
| Circumference inches (mm) | 100.7 (2557.88) | 99.16 (2518.61) | -1.55 (-39.27) -1.5% |
| Sidewall Height inches (mm) | 7.03 (178.5) | 6.78 (172.25) | -0.25 (-6.25) -3.5% |
| Revolutions per mile (km) | 629.17 (390.95) | 638.98 (397.04) | +9.81 (+6.1) +1.6% |
| Speedo Reading | 20 mph | 19.69 mph | -0.31 mph |
Difference Between 255/70R18 and 265/65R18
The primary difference is width. A 265/65R18 tire is 0.39 inches wider than a 255/70R18, offering improved traction and stability on the road.
Can I Use 265/65R18 Instead of 255/70R18?
Yes, you can use a 265/65R18 instead of a 255/70R18. The diameter difference is within the recommended 3%, ensuring compatibility without major performance issues.
How Much Taller Is a 255/70R18 Tire Than a 265/65R18?
A 255/70R18 tire is 0.93 inches taller than a 265/65R18, resulting in a larger overall diameter and potentially affecting vehicle handling and speedometer accuracy.
How Much Wider is a 265/65R18 Tire Than a 255/70R18?
A 265/65R18 tire is 0.39 inches wider than a 255/70R18, providing increased road contact for better grip and enhanced vehicle stability.
Our Observation
Switching from 255/70R18 to 265/65R18 brings both benefits and some drawbacks. The wider 265 tire provides improved stability, traction, and a sportier look, which can be advantageous both on-road and off-road.
On paved roads, the difference in fuel efficiency and ride comfort is minor and often goes unnoticed for day-to-day driving. Off-road, the increased traction is beneficial, but the slight reduction in ground clearance and the stiffer ride could make a difference in more rugged conditions.
Overall, for those who prioritize enhanced stability and a rugged appearance, the 265/65R18 is a solid option, while those who need maximum comfort and clearance might prefer sticking to the 255/70R18.
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.
