265/70r16 vs 265/75r16 – Which Tire Size is Right for You?

Choosing the best tire for your vehicle can be quite confusing. You are cut in between considering a lot of factors; fuel economy, durability, usage, and more importantly, compatibility with your car.

You might find it difficult trying to differentiate between 265 75r16 and 26570r16 because both tires have the same tire width, radial construction, and rim size. However, the core difference between 265 75r16 and 265 70r16 is the aspect ratio. This major difference impacts the overall size and performance of both tires. 

265 75r16 is bigger and has achieved more frictional resistance. The higher aspect ratio of 265 75r16 indicates that it has better steering stability, and improved ride comfort.

Let’s explore more differences between 265 75r16 and 265 70r16. As a driver, you must understand that your tires play a vital role in your road operation. Understanding the features of a tire will help you decide if it will match your specific needs.

what does 265 75r16 mean?

265 75r16 refers to tires with a tire width of 265 millimeters, a 75% aspect ratio, and 16 inches rim size. 265 75r16 are referred to as light-duty truck tires. They function as all-terrain tires popularly known for their durable frame and structure. 

The tire is loaded with enough tread life to sustain on and off-road tracks. You will always find these tires in jeeps, and SUVs with a load index of 119/116. 265 75r16 has a sidewall height of 7.82 inches, 10.43-inch width, 31.65-inch diameter, and an overall circumference of 99.43 inches.

what does 265 70r16 mean?

70 series tires are usually referred to as passenger tires. We might not put in the same lane as 265 75r16 light-duty truck tires, its traction, and frictional resistance is commendable. It has a load index 112/118. 

265 70r16 also serves as offroad all-terrain tires. You shouldn’t expect them to maneuver obstacles just as a grappler will do. 265 70r16 has a diameter of 30.16 inches, a 10.43-inch width, a 7.3-inch sidewall height, and an overall circumference of 30.61 inches.

difference between 265/75r16 and 265/70r16

#1- Sidewall Height

The sidewall height of a car determines its performance, handling, and stability of the car. It is important to decide the perfect type of sidewall for your car.

Cars like SUVs need a greater sidewall height to provide improved comfort and stability. This should not be the case for high-performance sports cars.

265 75r16 has a 7.82 inches sidewall height. This is compared to the 265 70r16 7.3 inches sidewall height. The bigger sidewall height 265 75r16 will perform better than 265 70r16. 

However, you should be wary of which cars you use them on.

Winner >> 265 75r16

#2- Fit

265 70r16 and 265 75r16 have the same rim size and tire width, but varying aspect ratios. This means that although there are slight differences in the percentage ratio of the tire’s sidewall height and tire width, both tires will closely fit into the same wheel range. Irrespective of these, there are variations in the type of cars that are the best fit for 265 70r16 and 265 75r16.

265 75r16 will work perfectly as a light-duty truck tire for cars like; Dodge(3), Ford(2), Hummer(2), Land Rover, Suzuki, Toyota, Ram, Holden, Ram, BAIC (1), and Nissan (4). 265 70R16 will fit in cars like BAW, Cadillac, Ford, Holden, Mazda, JMC, Mercedes Benz, Suzuki (1), Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi (10), Isuzu (2), Great Wall(4), Foton(5), and Chevrolet (6).

It is important that you confirm the compatibility of these tires with your vehicle.  

Winner >> Both

#3- Fuel Economy, traction, and gas mileage

The width of a tire plays a major role in its fuel economy, traction, and gas mileage. The wider the tire, the larger the contact patch and impact on the road. This also increases the amount of power required to move the tire for each mile.

265 75r16 is bigger than 265 70r16, this will cause a reduced fuel economy, and gas mileage for 265 75r16.

The reverse is the case for traction. Tires with a larger surface have better traction. 265 75r16 has better traction than 265 70r16.

Winner >> 265 70r16

#4- Frictional resistance

 An increased tire’s width impacts its frictional resistance. It influences an increase in the maximum frictional coefficient against the tire and the road. This poses a huge advantage, but at the same time, it increases the rolling resistance. 

The width of 265 75r16 increases the possibility of road holding and achieving shorter stop distances.

Winner >> 265 75r16

#5- Aspect ratio and Sidewall height

Aspect ratio is the most noticeable difference between 265 70r16 and 265 75r16. This impacts the steering stability, handling, and performance.

The aspect ratio goes as far as altering the readings of your speedometer. It determines what it reads and the actual speed you are riding. 

The aspect ratio of a tire works in hand with the sidewall height. While the aspect ratio determines the ease of turning the wheel, sidewall height determines how flexible the ride is.

A lower aspect ratio reduces the time required to turn the wheel, but this comes at the expense of the sidewall height. A lower sidewall height will result in more bumpy rides.

Winner >> 265 75r16

#6- Rolling Resistance

Tire pressure, diameter, and width are major factors that decide the rolling resistance of a tire. A larger tire will have a more reduced rolling resistance with the ability to handle obstacles. 265 75r16 has a better advantage in rolling resistance than 265 70r16.

Winner >> 265 70r16

frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Verdict

265 75r16 and 265 70r16 have the same rim size and tire width. The difference in aspect ratio plays a great role in the distinction in performance, stability, and size of both tires.

If you need a good light-duty tire, you should go with 265 75r16. If you are considering fuel economy and gas mileage, 265 70r16 is a better option. It will perform better as a passenger tire than a mud tire.

Here are other tire related articles you might like:

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Who Makes Otani Tires – [Discover The Quality & Performance]

Rasel

Certification: BSc in Mechanical Engineering

Education: Mechanical  engineer

Lives In: 539 W Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75208, USA

Rasel is an auto mechanic student and writer with over half a decade of experience in the automotive field. He has worked with top automotive brands such as Lexus, Quantum, and also owns two automotive blogs autocarneed.com and taxiwiz.com.