ElpiAuto

Tire size comparison

275/65R20 vs 285/50R20

285/50R20 is 2.85″ (72 mm) shorter than 275/65R20, a 8.4% difference in overall diameter — outside the ±3% band, so expect the speedometer to drift and check for rubbing before fitting.

34.07″31.22″A  275/65R20B  285/50R20Both sizes to scale · dimension lines in inches
Measurement275/65R20285/50R20Difference%
Overall diameter34.07″31.22″−2.85″−8.4%
Section width10.83″11.22″+0.39″+3.6%
Sidewall height7.04″5.61″−1.43″−20.3%
Circumference107.05″98.08″−8.97″−8.4%
Revs per mile591.9646.0+54.1+9.1%
Revs per km367.8401.4+33.6+9.1%

Speedometer: with 275/65R20 as the original, 285/50R20 makes an indicated 60 mph really about 55.0 mph, and the axle sits ~1.43″ lower.

Reading this comparison

The overall diameter is what matters here: 275/65R20 is the taller tire. It sets ride height, gearing and how far the tire travels per revolution — which is what the speedometer and odometer count. Width and sidewall change fit and feel (a wider tire needs a wider wheel and more clearance; a shorter sidewall sharpens steering) but not the gearing.

Figures are geometric estimates from the size codes; real moulded tires vary by brand by 1–3%. Confirm load rating, wheel width and physical clearance on your vehicle before fitting. To compare any other two sizes, use the tire size comparison tool; to decode one size and see what else fits its wheel, the tire size calculator.

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