ElpiAuto

Tire size comparison

275/60R20 vs 285/55R20

285/55R20 is 0.65″ (17 mm) shorter than 275/60R20, a 2.0% difference in overall diameter — right at the edge of the ±3% band — fine on most cars, but check clearance at full lock and full suspension compression.

32.99″32.34″A  275/60R20B  285/55R20Both sizes to scale · dimension lines in inches
Measurement275/60R20285/55R20Difference%
Overall diameter32.99″32.34″−0.65″−2.0%
Section width10.83″11.22″+0.39″+3.6%
Sidewall height6.50″6.17″−0.32″−5.0%
Circumference103.65″101.61″−2.04″−2.0%
Revs per mile611.3623.6+12.3+2.0%
Revs per km379.8387.5+7.6+2.0%

Speedometer: with 275/60R20 as the original, 285/55R20 makes an indicated 60 mph really about 58.8 mph, and the axle sits ~0.32″ lower.

Reading this comparison

The overall diameter is what matters here: 275/60R20 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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