225/70R16 vs 275/40R20
Switching from 225/70R16 to 275/40R20 increases the overall diameter by 6.6 mm (0.9%). That is within the usual ±3% guideline.
| 225/70R16 | 275/40R20 | Difference (mm / revs) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section width | 225 mm | 275 mm | +50.0 |
| Sidewall height | 157.5 mm | 110.0 mm | -47.5 |
| Rim diameter | 406.4 mm | 508.0 mm | +101.6 |
| Overall diameter | 721.4 mm | 728.0 mm | +6.6 |
| Circumference | 2,266.3 mm | 2,287.1 mm | +20.8 |
| Revolutions | 441 per km | 437 per km | -4.0 |
Speedometer effect
With 275/40R20 fitted on a car calibrated for 225/70R16, the real speed when the speedometer shows:
| Speedometer shows | Actual speed |
|---|---|
| 50 km/h | 50.5 km/h |
| 80 km/h | 80.7 km/h |
| 100 km/h | 100.9 km/h |
| 120 km/h | 121.1 km/h |
Larger tires make the car go faster than the speedometer shows. Most speedometers also read slightly high from the factory.
Before you change size
- Check the sizes approved for your vehicle on the door-jamb placard or in the owner's manual.
- Check clearance to suspension, brakes and arches at full lock and full compression.
- Match or exceed the original load index and speed rating.
- Wider tires need an appropriate rim width; a 275 mm tire has a manufacturer-specified rim width range.
225/70R16 dimensions · 275/40R20 dimensions · Open in calculator