ElpiAuto

Tire size comparison

305/70R17 vs 315/70R17

315/70R17 is 0.55″ (14 mm) taller than 305/70R17, a 1.6% 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.

33.81″34.36″A  305/70R17B  315/70R17Both sizes to scale · dimension lines in inches
Measurement305/70R17315/70R17Difference%
Overall diameter33.81″34.36″+0.55″+1.6%
Section width12.01″12.40″+0.39″+3.3%
Sidewall height8.41″8.68″+0.28″+3.3%
Circumference106.22″107.95″+1.73″+1.6%
Revs per mile596.5586.9−9.6−1.6%
Revs per km370.6364.7−5.9−1.6%

Speedometer: with 305/70R17 as the original, 315/70R17 makes an indicated 60 mph really about 61.0 mph, and the axle sits ~0.28″ higher.

Reading this comparison

The overall diameter is what matters here: 315/70R17 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.

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