ElpiAuto

Tire size comparison

275/65R18 vs 305/70R18

305/70R18 is 2.74″ (70 mm) taller than 275/65R18, a 8.5% difference in overall diameter — outside the ±3% band, so expect the speedometer to drift and check for rubbing before fitting.

32.07″34.81″A  275/65R18B  305/70R18Both sizes to scale · dimension lines in inches
Measurement275/65R18305/70R18Difference%
Overall diameter32.07″34.81″+2.74″+8.5%
Section width10.83″12.01″+1.18″+10.9%
Sidewall height7.04″8.41″+1.37″+19.4%
Circumference100.77″109.36″+8.60″+8.5%
Revs per mile628.8579.4−49.4−7.9%
Revs per km390.7360.0−30.7−7.9%

Speedometer: with 275/65R18 as the original, 305/70R18 makes an indicated 60 mph really about 65.1 mph, and the axle sits ~1.37″ higher.

Reading this comparison

The overall diameter is what matters here: 305/70R18 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