Tire Size 295/70r17 vs 285/70r17
Are you considering switching from 295/70R17 tires to 285/70R17? We’ll explore the key differences between these tire sizes and help you make an informed decision.
- Diameter difference of -1.7% falls within the acceptable range
- Width reduction of 0.39 inches may slightly impact traction off-road
- Sidewall height decrease of 0.28 inches minimally affects ground clearance
- Increase of 10.22 revolutions per mile may improve fuel efficiency
- Speedometer will read 0.33 mph faster than actual speed at 20 mph
Fitment Guide
It’s essential to ensure that the new tires’ overall diameter is within 3% of the original tires. In this case, the diameter difference between 295/70R17 and 285/70R17 tires is -1.7%, which falls within the acceptable range.
On-Road Impact
Switching to a narrower tire can have several effects on your vehicle’s on-road performance. Let’s explore some of the key aspects:
- Ride Comfort: Narrower tires may slightly reduce ride comfort, as they have less air volume to absorb bumps and vibrations. However, the difference in width between 295/70R17 and 285/70R17 tires is relatively small, so the impact on ride comfort may be barely noticeable.
- Fuel Efficiency: The narrower 285/70R17 tires have a smaller contact patch with the road, which can lead to reduced rolling resistance. This may result in a slight improvement in fuel efficiency, although the difference may be negligible in real-world driving conditions.
- Handling: The narrower width of 285/70R17 tires can affect handling, particularly in wet conditions. Narrower tires have a smaller contact patch, which can reduce grip and traction. However, the difference in width is relatively small, so the impact on handling may not be significant for most drivers.
- Speedometer Accuracy: The speedometer reading will be slightly affected when switching to 285/70R17 tires. At a speedo reading of 20 mph (32.19 km/h), the actual speed will be 19.67 mph (31.65 km/h). This difference is minor and unlikely to cause any issues in daily driving.
Off-Road Impact
If you use your vehicle for off-road adventures, switching to 285/70R17 tires can have some effects on performance:
- Ground Clearance: The slightly smaller diameter of 285/70R17 tires may result in a minimal reduction in ground clearance. The difference is only 0.55 inches (14 mm), which is unlikely to have a significant impact on most off-road situations.
- Traction: The narrower width of 285/70R17 tires can affect traction in off-road conditions, particularly in soft terrain like mud or sand. The smaller contact patch may reduce the tire’s ability to float on soft surfaces, potentially leading to reduced traction and increased risk of getting stuck.
- Durability: The narrower width of 285/70R17 tires may slightly reduce their load-carrying capacity compared to 295/70R17 tires. This could affect the tires’ durability and wear resistance in demanding off-road conditions, although the difference may not be significant for most users.
295/70r17 vs 285/70r17 Table
This table will help you compare the key attributes of the two tire sizes and understand their variations.
| Feature | 295/70R17 | 285/70R17 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter inches (mm) | 33.26 (844.8) | 32.71 (830.8) | -0.55 (-14) -1.7% |
| Width inches (mm) | 11.61 (295) | 11.22 (285) | -0.39 (-10) -3.4% |
| Circumference inches (mm) | 104.49 (2654.02) | 102.76 (2610.04) | -1.73 (-43.98) -1.7% |
| Sidewall Height inches (mm) | 8.13 (206.5) | 7.85 (199.5) | -0.28 (-7) -3.4% |
| Revolutions per mile (km) | 606.38 (376.79) | 616.6 (383.14) | 10.22 (6.35) +1.7% |
| Speedometer Reading | 20 mph | 19.67 mph | -0.33 mph |
What is the Difference Between 295/70R17 and 285/70R17?
The main differences between 295/70R17 and 285/70R17 tires are in their width, diameter, and sidewall height.
A 295/70R17 tire is 0.39 inches (10 mm) wider, 0.55 inches (14 mm) taller, and has a 0.28-inch (7 mm) taller sidewall compared to a 285/70R17 tire.
Can I Use 285/70R17 Instead of 295/70R17?
Yes, you can use 285/70R17 tires instead of 295/70R17 tires. The overall diameter difference between these two sizes is -1.7%, which falls within the acceptable range of 3%.
However, the slight differences in width and sidewall height may have minor effects on traction, ground clearance, and overall performance.
How Much Taller Is a 295/70R17 Tire Than a 285/70R17?
A 295/70R17 tire is approximately 0.55 inches (14 mm) taller than a 285/70R17 tire. The overall diameter of a 295/70R17 tire is 33.26 inches (844.8 mm), while a 285/70R17 tire has a diameter of 32.71 inches (830.8 mm).
How Much Wider is a 295/70R17 Tire Than a 285/70R17?
A 295/70R17 tire is 0.39 inches (10 mm) wider than a 285/70R17 tire. The width of a 295/70R17 tire is 11.61 inches (295 mm), whereas a 285/70R17 tire has a width of 11.22 inches (285 mm).
Our Observations
After analyzing the differences between 295/70R17 and 285/70R17 tires, we believe that switching to the narrower size is a viable option for most vehicles.
The diameter difference falls within the acceptable range, and the impact on on-road performance is likely to be minimal for the average driver.
However, if you frequently engage in off-road activities or prioritize maximum traction and durability, sticking with the wider 295/70R17 tires may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific vehicle, driving habits, and personal preferences.
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.
