ElpiAuto

Tire size comparison

305/55R20 vs 315/60R20

315/60R20 is 1.67″ (42 mm) taller than 305/55R20, a 5.0% difference in overall diameter — outside the ±3% band, so expect the speedometer to drift and check for rubbing before fitting.

33.21″34.88″A  305/55R20B  315/60R20Both sizes to scale · dimension lines in inches
Measurement305/55R20315/60R20Difference%
Overall diameter33.21″34.88″+1.67″+5.0%
Section width12.01″12.40″+0.39″+3.3%
Sidewall height6.60″7.44″+0.84″+12.7%
Circumference104.33″109.58″+5.26″+5.0%
Revs per mile607.3578.2−29.1−4.8%
Revs per km377.4359.3−18.1−4.8%

Speedometer: with 305/55R20 as the original, 315/60R20 makes an indicated 60 mph really about 63.0 mph, and the axle sits ~0.84″ higher.

Reading this comparison

The overall diameter is what matters here: 315/60R20 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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