ElpiAuto

Tire size comparison

275/70R18 vs 305/70R18

305/70R18 is 1.65″ (42 mm) taller than 275/70R18, a 5.0% difference in overall diameter — outside the ±3% band, so expect the speedometer to drift and check for rubbing before fitting.

33.16″34.81″A  275/70R18B  305/70R18Both sizes to scale · dimension lines in inches
Measurement275/70R18305/70R18Difference%
Overall diameter33.16″34.81″+1.65″+5.0%
Section width10.83″12.01″+1.18″+10.9%
Sidewall height7.58″8.41″+0.83″+10.9%
Circumference104.17″109.36″+5.19″+5.0%
Revs per mile608.3579.4−28.9−4.8%
Revs per km378.0360.0−18.0−4.8%

Speedometer: with 275/70R18 as the original, 305/70R18 makes an indicated 60 mph really about 63.0 mph, and the axle sits ~0.83″ 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.

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