ElpiAuto

Tire size comparison

265/75R17 vs 305/70R17

305/70R17 is 1.16″ (29 mm) taller than 265/75R17, a 3.6% difference in overall diameter — outside the ±3% band, so expect the speedometer to drift and check for rubbing before fitting.

32.65″33.81″A  265/75R17B  305/70R17Both sizes to scale · dimension lines in inches
Measurement265/75R17305/70R17Difference%
Overall diameter32.65″33.81″+1.16″+3.6%
Section width10.43″12.01″+1.57″+15.1%
Sidewall height7.82″8.41″+0.58″+7.4%
Circumference102.57″106.22″+3.65″+3.6%
Revs per mile617.7596.5−21.2−3.4%
Revs per km383.8370.6−13.2−3.4%

Speedometer: with 265/75R17 as the original, 305/70R17 makes an indicated 60 mph really about 62.1 mph, and the axle sits ~0.58″ higher.

Reading this comparison

The overall diameter is what matters here: 305/70R17 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.

Related comparisons