Tire Size 255/70r18 vs 265/70r18
Are you considering switching your tire size from 255/70R18 to 265/70R18? Let’s explore the key differences and impacts of making this change to help you decide.
- Slightly larger tire diameter improves ground clearance.
- Wider tire provides better road contact for improved traction.
- Increased sidewall height enhances ride comfort on rough surfaces.
- Reduced revolutions per mile may result in minor speedometer discrepancies.
- Taller sidewalls can improve off-road performance and absorb impacts better.
- Increased circumference may slightly affect fuel efficiency.
- Larger tire size gives a more robust and aggressive visual appearance.
Fitment Guide
In the case of switching from 255/70R18 to 265/70R18, it’s important to understand that replacement tires should ideally fall within a 3% range of the original tire’s overall diameter.
With these tire sizes, the diameter difference is 1.7%, which means the change is within the acceptable range. This ensures a minimal risk of rubbing or clearance issues, keeping your vehicle safe and capable.
However, any changes outside this range would require additional adaptations to avoid complications such as rubbing or clearance problems.
Main Difference
The main difference between 255/70R18 and 265/70R18 is the width. The 265 is 0.39 inches (10 mm) wider, giving a slightly more robust footprint, which can improve road grip but may slightly affect fuel efficiency due to increased rolling resistance.
On-Road Impact
Switching your tires impacts your driving experience in several ways, both on-road and off-road. Here, we focus on how this change influences gas mileage, ride comfort, aesthetic look, speedometer accuracy, and more, in regular driving conditions.
Gas Mileage
The 265/70R18 tire is wider than the 255/70R18 by 10 mm, meaning it has a larger contact patch with the road. This increased traction can provide better stability but also leads to increased rolling resistance.
This means your engine has to work a little harder, which may lead to a slight drop in fuel efficiency. The difference in gas mileage is often marginal but can add up over time, especially on long trips.
Ride Comfort
The increased sidewall height of the 265/70R18 provides additional cushioning, which can enhance ride comfort on bumpy roads.
This is particularly noticeable on highways or streets with imperfections, where the higher sidewall absorbs road shocks better than the 255/70R18.
However, this also means slightly more body roll during cornering, which could affect handling for more spirited drivers.
Aesthetic Look
Switching to a 265/70R18 gives your vehicle a more aggressive look. The wider footprint fills the wheel well more substantially, which is often visually appealing, especially for those looking for a rugged aesthetic.
This can be an advantage if you frequently drive in conditions that call for a tougher appearance, such as off-road trails or harsh weather environments.
Speedometer Accuracy
One aspect often overlooked during a tire change is the speedometer accuracy. With a larger overall diameter of 32.61 inches compared to the original 32.06 inches, the speedometer will read slightly lower than your actual speed.
For example, when your speedometer reads 20 mph, your actual speed is closer to 20.34 mph. This difference is not significant but is worth considering, especially if you drive in areas with strict speed enforcement.
Off-Road Impact
Switching tire sizes can also impact your vehicle’s performance when taken off the beaten path. Let’s look at how the 265/70R18 impacts ground clearance, traction, durability, and other aspects when tackling off-road terrains.
Ground Clearance
The 265/70R18 tire has a slightly larger diameter, which increases your ground clearance by approximately 0.28 inches.
This small increase can be beneficial off-road, especially when navigating uneven terrain, as it provides better protection for the undercarriage of your vehicle.
While the difference might not seem significant, even a small increase in clearance can make a big impact when facing obstacles like rocks or logs.
Traction
With a wider tread width, the 265/70R18 offers better traction, especially in loose conditions such as sand, mud, or gravel.
The larger contact patch allows for improved grip, which can be advantageous when off-roading. This can enhance the overall capability of your vehicle, giving you more confidence when tackling tricky trails or slippery slopes.
Durability & Wear
When it comes to durability and wear, the 265/70R18 may have the advantage due to the increased sidewall height.
The thicker sidewall provides greater resilience against punctures and damage, which is crucial for off-road adventures.
However, the wider surface area also means the tire can wear out a bit quicker if used primarily on paved roads, depending on driving habits and terrain.
255/70r18 vs 265/70r18
This table compares the key features of the 255/70R18 and 265/70R18 tire sizes.
| Feature | 255/70R18 | 265/70R18 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter inches (mm) | 32.06 (814.2) | 32.61 (828.2) | 0.55 (14) +1.7% |
| Width inches (mm) | 10.04 (255) | 10.43 (265) | 0.39 (10) +3.9% |
| Circumference inches (mm) | 100.7 (2557.88) | 102.44 (2601.87) | 1.73 (43.98) +1.7% |
| Sidewall Height inches (mm) | 7.03 (178.5) | 7.30 (185.5) | 0.28 (7) +3.9% |
| Revolutions per mile (km) | 629.17 (390.95) | 618.53 (384.34) | -10.64 (-6.61) -1.7% |
| Speedo Reading | 20 mph | 20.34 mph | +0.34 mph |
Difference Between 255/70R18 and 265/70R18
The main difference is width: the 265/70R18 tire is 10 mm (0.39 inches) wider than the 255/70R18, offering increased road contact for better traction and stability.
Can I Use 265/70R18 Instead of 255/70R18?
Yes, you can use 265/70R18 tires instead of 255/70R18. The diameter difference is only 0.55 inches (1.7%), which is within the recommended 3% tolerance for tire size changes.
How Much Taller Is a 265/70R18 Tire Than a 255/70R18?
The 265/70R18 tire is 0.55 inches (14 mm) taller than the 255/70R18, resulting in a slightly larger overall diameter.
How Much Wider Is a 265/70R18 Tire Than a 255/70R18?
The 265/70R18 tire is 10 mm (0.39 inches) wider than the 255/70R18, providing more contact with the road for improved grip and handling.
Our Observation
Switching from 255/70R18 to 265/70R18 comes with both benefits and drawbacks, and whether it’s the right move for you depends largely on your driving habits.
On-road, the wider 265 tire offers improved stability and a more aggressive aesthetic, but at the cost of slightly decreased fuel efficiency and a small reduction in speedometer accuracy.
Off-road, the enhanced traction and added ground clearance can improve your vehicle’s capability, making it more suited for adventures on uneven or loose terrains. The differences, though present, are mostly marginal, especially for day-to-day driving.
If you frequently drive off-road or prefer a more commanding look for your vehicle, the 265/70R18 is likely a worthwhile upgrade. If fuel efficiency is your primary concern, sticking with the 255 might be the better choice.
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.
