275 55r20 vs 275 65r20: Choose The Best Tire!

There is no doubt that choosing a tire can be a difficult task. But don’t worry, to make this job a bit easier for you, we have put together a comparison between the 275 55R20 and 275 65R20 tires.

So, 275 55R16 vs 275 65R16: which tire is better?

Between 275 55R16 and 275 65R16, the 275/55R20 tire has a shorter sidewall and a wider tread, that’s good for sporty driving and better handling. The shorter sidewall also translates to a lower profile tire, giving the vehicle a lower center of gravity. It also enhances its stability and maneuverability. 275/65R20 tires feature a higher sidewall that provides better cushioning and shock absorption. There is also more ground clearance, which is beneficial for off-road driving.

We will analyze these two tires in detail in the following parts.

275 55r20 vs 275 65r20: Quick Comparison 

It is obvious from their names that these two are very similar. For reference, it will be like comparing 275 55R20 and 275 60R20.

Let’s see the differences in their specs.

What is the difference between 275/55r20 and 275/60r20? Detailed Comparison!

With the key differences in mind, let’s take a closer look at each of them to see which one has the biggest advantages.

Width: 

Firstly, let’s compare their width. Both tire sizes have a width of 275mm, so there is no difference here. However, a difference in width does impact performance. For example, 265 75r16 and 285 75r16 have different gas mileage.

Winner: Tie

Diameter & Rim Size:

The 275 65r20 tire has a larger diameter than the 275 55r20 tire size. That’s why it provides better ground clearance, stability, and winter performance. However, it may also be heavier and impact fuel efficiency. 

The 275 55r20 tire has a smaller diameter. Because of this, it can be more maneuverable and accelerate faster.

But both of them have the same rim size.

Winner: For better ground clearance 275 65r20, for better maneuverability 275 55r20

Sidewall Height:

275 65R20 has a sidewall height of 7 inches and 275 55R20 has 5.9 inches.

A larger sidewall height, such as the one found in the 275 65r20 tire, provides better shock absorption and a more comfortable ride, as well as improved off-road performance.

As a comparison, a lower sidewall height, such as that of the 275 55r20 tire, provides better handling and stability, as well as better fuel economy.

Winner: For a smoother ride 275 65r20, for stability 275 55r20

Rev Per Mile:

With its increased rotations per minute, 275 55r20 tires may deliver better acceleration and power. These tires may be ideal for sports cars or vehicles designed to perform. However, a higher rev per mile may also reduce fuel efficiency and increase engine wear.

In contrast, tires with a lower rotation per minute, like the 275 65r20 tire, may provide better fuel efficiency and smoother ride due to their reduced rotations per minute. This may be ideal for SUVs or long-distance vehicles.

Winner: For a smoother ride 275 65r20, for better acceleration 275 55r20

Weight, Speed & Acceleration:

275 65r20 is heavier than the 275 55r20 and it has a slightly slower acceleration rate due to the added weight. But 275 65r20 has a higher top speed due to its larger diameter.

Winner: For acceleration 275 55r20, for top speed 275 65r20

Mileage:

When it comes to mileage, both tire sizes have a similar rating. The actual mileage will depend on a variety of factors. That includes driving habits, road conditions, and regular maintenance.

But, as larger tires are heavier, it consumes more fuel compared to smaller tires. So, 275 55R20 gives more mileage. Wider tires can also impact mileage, for example, between 265 70R17 and 275 70R17, there is more difference in mileage.

Winner: 275 55R20

Traction & Stability: 

275 65r20 has better traction due to larger surface area, wider footprint, and higher sidewall compared to 275 55r20. However, this may also result in slightly reduced fuel efficiency compared to the smaller tire size.

Winner: 275 65r20

Handling:

275 55r20 has better handling due to its lower sidewall, resulting in less sidewall flex and better response in turns. However, the larger tire size may provide a more comfortable ride due to its larger sidewall.

Winner: 275 55r20

Winter Performance:

The 275 65r20 tire offers better winter performance than the 275 55r20 tire. This is because the larger tire size provides more contact with the road. 

Winner: 275 65r20

Off-Road Performance:

275 65r20 performs better off-road due to its larger diameter. A larger diameter provides more ground clearance and better traction on rough terrain. 

However, 275 55r20 is more agile and responsive in off-road situations due to its lower sidewall.

Winner: 275 65r20

275 65r20 vs 275 55r20: Which One is The Winner? 

If you prioritize off-road performance, stability at higher speeds, and slightly better winter traction, the 275 65r20 tire size may be a better choice. 

On the other hand, if you prioritize handling, responsiveness in turns, fuel efficiency, and slightly better acceleration, the 275 55r20 tire size may be a better fit.

The 275 65r20 tire size has a larger diameter offering better off-road performance, improved stability at higher speeds, and better winter traction. However, it also has a higher rev per mile, which can result in lower fuel efficiency, and a higher sidewall height, which can impact handling performance.

The 275 55r20 tire size has a lower sidewall height, improving handling and responsiveness in turns. It also provides better fuel efficiency and better acceleration. However, its smaller diameter can affect off-road performance and stability at higher speeds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Will 275/65r20 fit 275/55r20?

No, 275/65r20 won’t fit 275/55r20. 275/65r20 and 275/55r20 are not interchangeable tire sizes. These two tire sizes have different aspect ratios. That means they require different rim sizes and have different load-carrying capacities.

Are smaller tires more fuel efficient?

Yes, smaller tires are more fuel-efficient than larger tires. Larger tires are heavier and have higher rolling resistance. That means they require more energy to get them rolling and maintain their momentum. This increased energy requirement can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and lower gas mileage.

Is it OK if all 4 tires aren’t the same?

No, it’s not okay if all 4 tires are not the same. All four tires on a vehicle should be the same make, model, and tread design to ensure safe and optimal performance. If the tires have different levels of wear or are of different sizes, it can affect the handling, stability, and overall performance of the vehicle.

Conclusion

A driver’s specific needs ultimately determine the choice between 275 55R16 vs 275 65R16 tires. 

Both tire sizes have their advantages and disadvantages. But it’s important to consider several factors, such as the vehicle’s requirements, road conditions, and budget. 

So choose wisely!

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