Tire Size 265/65r18 vs 265/60r18
Are you considering switching from 265/65R18 to 265/60R18 tires? While both tire sizes may look similar at first glance, there are some key differences to keep in mind.
- Slightly firmer ride due to shorter sidewall
- Improved handling and cornering stability
- Minor speedometer inaccuracy, reading 3.4% higher than actual speed
- Potential slight improvement in fuel efficiency
- Reduced ground clearance for off-road use
- Increased susceptibility to tire damage in extreme off-road conditions
Fitment Guide
It’s crucial to ensure that the new tires are within plus or minus 3% of the original tire’s overall diameter. In this case, the diameter difference between the 265/65R18 and 265/60R18 tires exceeds the acceptable 3% range, with a difference of -3.3%.
As a result, this interchange is not recommended without making necessary adaptations to prevent issues such as rubbing or clearance problems.
On-Road Impact
Switching from 265/65R18 to 265/60R18 tires can have various effects on your vehicle’s on-road performance. Let’s explore some of the key aspects:
- Ride Comfort: The shorter sidewall of the 265/60R18 tires may result in a slightly firmer ride, as there is less cushioning between the wheel and the road. However, this difference may be negligible for most drivers.
- Handling: The shorter sidewall of the 265/60R18 tires can provide a more responsive steering feel and improved cornering stability. This is because the shorter sidewall reduces tire flex, allowing for quicker steering inputs and less body roll.
- Speedometer Accuracy: Due to the smaller overall diameter of the 265/60R18 tires, your vehicle’s speedometer may read slightly higher than your actual speed. At 20 mph (32.19 km/h), the speedometer will read 19.34 mph (31.12 km/h), a difference of 3.4%.
- Fuel Efficiency: The shorter sidewall and reduced overall diameter of the 265/60R18 tires can lead to a slight improvement in fuel efficiency. This is because the engine needs to rotate the tires more times per mile, resulting in a 3.4% increase in revolutions per mile.
Off-Road Impact
If you frequently take your vehicle off-road, switching from 265/65R18 to 265/60R18 tires can have some implications:
- Ground Clearance: The shorter sidewall of the 265/60R18 tires will slightly reduce your vehicle’s ground clearance by 0.52 inches (13.25 mm). While this difference may not be significant for most off-road situations, it’s worth considering if you regularly encounter obstacles that require maximum clearance.
- Tire Protection: The taller sidewall of the 265/65R18 tires provides more protection against damage from rocks, roots, and other off-road hazards. With the shorter sidewall of the 265/60R18 tires, you may be more susceptible to tire damage in extreme off-road conditions.
265/65r18 vs 265/60r18 Table
This comparison highlights the key differences between the 265/65R18 and 265/60R18 tire sizes.
| Feature | 265/65R18 | 265/60R18 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter inches (mm) | 31.56 (801.7) | 30.52 (775.2) | -1.04 (-26.5) -3.3% |
| Width inches (mm) | 10.43 (265) | 10.43 (265) | 0 (0) 0% |
| Circumference inches (mm) | 99.16 (2518.61) | 95.88 (2435.36) | -3.28 (-83.25) -3.3% |
| Sidewall Height inches (mm) | 6.78 (172.25) | 6.26 (159) | -0.52 (-13.25) -7.7% |
| Revolutions per mile (km) | 638.98 (397.04) | 660.82 (410.62) | 21.84 (13.57) 3.4% |
| Speedo Reading | 20 mph | 19.34 mph | -0.66 mph |
What is the Difference Between 265/65R18 and 265/60R18?
The main difference between 265/65R18 and 265/60R18 tires is the sidewall height. The 265/60R18 tire has a sidewall height that is 0.52 inches (13.25 mm) or 7.7% shorter than the 265/65R18 tire. This results in a 1.04 inches (26.5 mm) or 3.3% decrease in overall diameter.
Can I Use 265/60R18 Instead of 265/65R18?
It is not recommended to use 265/60R18 tires instead of 265/65R18 tires. The overall diameter difference between these two sizes exceeds the recommended 3% difference, which could potentially be unsafe and negatively affect vehicle handling, speedometer accuracy, fuel efficiency, and overall performance.
How Much Taller Is a 265/65R18 Tire Than a 265/60R18?
A 265/65R18 tire is approximately 1.04 inches (26.5 mm) taller than a 265/60R18 tire. The 265/65R18 tire has a diameter of 31.56 inches (801.7 mm), while the 265/60R18 tire has a diameter of 30.52 inches (775.2 mm), resulting in a difference of 1.04 inches (26.5 mm) in height.
Our Observations
After analyzing the differences between 265/65R18 and 265/60R18 tires, we’ve found that the impact of switching between these sizes is relatively minor for most drivers.
The 3.3% difference in overall diameter falls just outside the recommended range, but the effects on handling, ride comfort, and fuel efficiency are likely to be negligible for daily driving.
However, if you frequently engage in off-road activities, the reduced ground clearance and tire protection offered by the 265/60R18 tires may be a concern. In this case, sticking with the original 265/65R18 tires or exploring alternative tire sizes that maintain a taller sidewall might be preferable.
Ultimately, the decision to switch from 265/65R18 to 265/60R18 tires depends on your specific needs and priorities.
By understanding the differences between these tire sizes and how they can impact your vehicle’s performance, you can make an informed decision that best suits your driving style and requirements.
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.
