35×12.50r15 in Metric
If you’re in the market for new tires and you stumble across imperial sizes like 35×12.50R15, it can be a bit confusing to figure out the closest equivalent in metric sizes.
Understanding how these measurements convert can help you make the right tire choice for your vehicle. So, what’s the closest metric match to the popular 35×12.50R15?
The answer is 315/85R15. In this article, we will break down what this metric equivalent means, explore how to convert between imperial and metric sizes, and provide some alternatives to help you make the most informed decision.
Reading Tire Size
When reading an imperial tire size like 35×12.50R15, it’s important to understand the meaning behind each component:
- 35: This is the overall diameter of the tire, in inches. In this case, the tire is 35 inches tall.
- 12.50: This refers to the width of the tire, also in inches. This tire is 12.50 inches wide.
- R: The letter ‘R’ indicates that the tire is of Radial construction, which is the most common tire type on the market.
- 15: This number indicates the diameter of the rim that the tire is designed to fit, in inches. This tire is made to fit on a 15-inch rim.
This format provides a simple but effective way to understand the basic dimensions and compatibility of a tire. For drivers used to metric measurements, however, converting these sizes can be crucial.
Closest Metric Equivalent
The closest metric equivalent to 35×12.50R15 is 315/85R15. Let’s break down why:
- Width: The imperial tire size indicates a width of 12.50 inches, which is equivalent to about 315 millimeters. This is why the width of the metric equivalent is 315.
- Aspect Ratio: In a metric tire size, the aspect ratio is the height of the sidewall expressed as a percentage of the tire width. The 85 in 315/85R15 suggests that the height of the sidewall is 85% of the width. This aspect ratio closely matches the overall height of the original tire.
- Rim Size: The rim size remains 15 inches in both the imperial and metric versions, ensuring compatibility with the same rims.
This metric size offers almost the exact same overall diameter, width, and performance characteristics as the original imperial size.
This similarity ensures that the tire will fit well without the need for modifications, while also maintaining the same handling, comfort, and performance levels.
Alternative This Size
While 315/85R15 is the closest metric match, there are several other sizes that may work depending on your specific needs or vehicle setup. Below is a detailed table comparing various alternatives:
| Tire Size | Overall Diameter | Difference (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 35X12.5R15 | 35.00 | 0.00% |
| 36X12.5R15 | 36.00 | 2.86% |
| 305/50R22 | 34.01 | -2.83% |
| 305/55R22 | 35.21 | 0.60% |
| 305/70R18 | 34.81 | -0.54% |
| 315/45R22 | 34.27 | -2.09% |
| 315/60R20 | 35.88 | 2.51% |
| 315/70R17 | 34.36 | -1.83% |
| 315/70R18 | 35.36 | 1.03% |
| 325/45R24 | 35.33 | 0.94% |
| 325/50R22 | 34.80 | -0.57% |
| 325/55R22 | 35.95 | 2.71% |
These alternatives can be suitable if you’re looking for slightly different performance characteristics or if certain sizes are more readily available.
However, when selecting an alternative, it’s essential to consider the overall diameter difference, as it can impact your speedometer accuracy and the overall fitment.
35×12.50R15 Equivalent
The closest metric equivalent to 35×12.50R15 is 315/85R15. Both tires have very similar dimensions, meaning they provide nearly identical performance, handling, and comfort.
How Tall is a 35×12.50R15 Tire?
The 35×12.50R15 tire has an overall height of 35 inches. This measurement is taken from the ground to the top of the tire when it is properly inflated.
How Wide is a 35×12.50R15 Tire?
The width of a 35×12.50R15 tire is 12.50 inches. This width is ideal for off-road traction and stability, especially when paired with a wider rim.
What Size Rim Fits a 35×12.50R15?
A 35×12.50R15 tire is designed to fit a 15-inch rim. When selecting rims, ensure that they have the appropriate width to support a 12.50-inch tire for optimal safety and performance.
Our Observation
In summary, finding the closest metric equivalent to a tire like 35×12.50R15 involves understanding the intricacies of tire sizing and matching dimensions as closely as possible.
The 315/85R15 tire is an excellent match in this case, offering a similar diameter, width, and fitment without requiring vehicle modifications.
However, it’s important to remember that the perfect tire size also depends on your driving needs. Off-road enthusiasts may want a slightly wider or taller tire for enhanced traction.
While someone driving primarily on highways may prioritize a more efficient size for comfort and fuel economy. In any case, always consult a tire professional before making a final decision to ensure compatibility with your vehicle and driving style.
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.
