Tire Size 285/70r17 vs 33×12.50r17
Upgrading your tires can transform your vehicle’s appearance and performance. The switch from 285/70r17 to 33×12.50r17 brings subtle changes that can make a big difference in certain situations.
- Wider tread provides better traction especially off-road
- Slightly larger diameter increases ground clearance marginally
- Minimal impact on speedometer accuracy and fuel efficiency
- More aggressive look enhances vehicle aesthetics
- Potential for increased road noise and slightly reduced handling on wet pavement
Fitment Guide
The diameter difference between these tire sizes is only 0.32 inches or 1%, well within the acceptable 3% range.
This means the interchange is recommended without requiring major modifications to your vehicle. However, it’s always wise to check for any potential rubbing or clearance issues during installation.
On-Road Impact
The switch to 33×12.50r17 tires brings subtle changes to your on-road driving experience. Here’s how it affects various aspects:
- Gas Mileage: The wider tires may slightly decrease fuel efficiency due to increased rolling resistance. However, the impact is likely to be minimal, possibly reducing your MPG by 1-2%.
- Ride Comfort: The taller sidewall (8.01 inches vs. 7.85 inches) can provide a slightly smoother ride, absorbing more road imperfections. This difference is small and may not be noticeable to most drivers.
- Speedometer Accuracy: Your speedometer will read slightly lower than your actual speed. For example, when it shows 20 mph, you’ll actually be traveling at 20.19 mph. This 1% difference is negligible for everyday driving but worth noting for long trips.
- Handling: The wider tires offer improved grip on dry pavement, potentially enhancing cornering ability. However, they may also increase the risk of hydroplaning in wet conditions due to the larger contact patch.
- Noise: The more aggressive tread pattern of the 33×12.50r17 tires might produce slightly more road noise, especially at highway speeds.
Off-Road Impact
For off-road enthusiasts, the switch to 33×12.50r17 tires brings more noticeable benefits:
- Ground Clearance: The small increase in diameter (0.32 inches) provides a minimal boost in ground clearance. While not dramatic, this can help in clearing small obstacles on trails.
- Traction: The wider tread offers significantly improved grip in mud, sand, and loose terrain. This is perhaps the most significant benefit for off-road use.
- Flotation: The larger overall size helps prevent sinking in soft surfaces like sand or snow, making these tires better suited for diverse off-road conditions.
- Aesthetics: The larger, more aggressive-looking tires give your vehicle a more rugged appearance, which is often desirable for off-road enthusiasts.
- Rock Crawling: The slightly larger diameter allows for better “roll-over” capability when navigating rocky terrain.
Durability & Wear
The change in tire size can affect longevity and wear patterns:
- Tread Life: The wider tires may wear slightly faster due to increased friction and heat generation. However, this effect is often balanced by the larger overall tire size.
- Uneven Wear: If your vehicle’s alignment isn’t adjusted for the new tire size, you might experience uneven wear. It’s crucial to have an alignment check after installation.
- Sidewall Durability: The taller sidewalls of the 33×12.50r17 tires can provide better protection against impacts and punctures, especially useful in off-road scenarios.
What is the Difference Between 285/70r17 and 33×12.50r17?
The main differences between 285/70r17 and 33×12.50r17 tires are in their dimensions. The 33×12.50r17 tire is 0.32 inches (8.04 mm) taller, 1.3 inches (33 mm) wider, and has a 0.99-inch (25.26 mm) larger circumference than the 285/70r17 tire.
The sidewall height of the 33×12.50r17 tire is also 0.16 inches (4.02 mm) taller than the 285/70r17.
Can I Use 33×12.50r17 Instead of 285/70r17?
While the difference in diameter between the two tires is only about 1%, the 33×12.50r17 tire is 11.6% wider than the 285/70r17. This significant difference in width could potentially cause clearance issues and might affect vehicle handling.
It is generally recommended to consult with a professional or refer to your vehicle’s manual before making such a change.
How Much Taller Is a 33×12.50r17 Tire Than a 285/70r17?
A 33×12.50r17 tire is approximately 0.32 inches (8.04 mm) taller than a 285/70r17 tire. The overall diameter of the 33×12.50r17 tire is 33.03 inches (838.84 mm), while the diameter of the 285/70r17 tire is 32.71 inches (830.8 mm).
How Much Wider is a 33×12.50r17 Tire Than a 285/70r17?
A 33×12.50r17 tire is 1.3 inches (33 mm) wider than a 285/70r17 tire. The width of the 33×12.50r17 tire is 12.52 inches (318 mm), whereas the width of the 285/70r17 tire is 11.22 inches (285 mm). This difference in width is approximately 11.6%.
285/70r17 vs 33×12.50r17 Table
This table compares the 285/70R17 and 33×12.50R17 tires, detailing the key differences.
| Feature | 285/70R17 | 33×12.50R17 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter inches (mm) | 32.71 (830.8) | 33.03 (838.84) | 0.32 (8.04) +1% |
| Width inches (mm) | 11.22 (285) | 12.52 (318) | 1.3 (33) +11.6% |
| Circumference inches (mm) | 102.76 (2610.04) | 103.75 (2635.29) | 0.99 (25.26) +1% |
| Sidewall Height inches (mm) | 7.85 (199.5) | 8.01 (203.52) | 0.16 (4.02) +2% |
| Revolutions per mile (km) | 616.6 (383.14) | 610.69 (379.46) | -5.91 (-3.67) -1% |
| Speedo Reading | 20 mph | 20.19 mph | +0.19 mph |
Our Observation
Switching from 285/70r17 to 33×12.50r17 tires offers a balanced mix of benefits and trade-offs. On-road, the differences are subtle – slightly reduced fuel efficiency and speedometer accuracy are offset by improved grip and a marginally smoother ride.
Off-road is where these tires truly shine, providing better traction, flotation, and a more aggressive look. The minimal increase in diameter means most vehicles won’t require significant modifications, making this an accessible upgrade for many.
While the changes may seem small on paper, they can add up to a noticeably improved driving experience, especially for those who frequently venture off the beaten path.
Sabrina Khan Tisha, a lead writer at Tiresizecompare.com, brings a wealth of experience to her role. As the CEO of amarcalculator.com, she oversees a platform offering diverse calculation tools. Sabrina’s background in HR and office management, coupled with her numerous certifications, informs her approach to content creation. Her leadership and expertise contribute significantly to the automotive and calculation sectors.
