235/70R16 vs 255/55R18
Switching from 235/70R16 to 255/55R18 increases the overall diameter by 2.3 mm (0.3%). That is within the usual ±3% guideline.
| 235/70R16 | 255/55R18 | Difference (mm / revs) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section width | 235 mm | 255 mm | +20.0 |
| Sidewall height | 164.5 mm | 140.2 mm | -24.3 |
| Rim diameter | 406.4 mm | 457.2 mm | +50.8 |
| Overall diameter | 735.4 mm | 737.7 mm | +2.3 |
| Circumference | 2,310.3 mm | 2,317.6 mm | +7.3 |
| Revolutions | 433 per km | 431 per km | -2.0 |
Speedometer effect
With 255/55R18 fitted on a car calibrated for 235/70R16, the real speed when the speedometer shows:
| Speedometer shows | Actual speed |
|---|---|
| 50 km/h | 50.2 km/h |
| 80 km/h | 80.3 km/h |
| 100 km/h | 100.3 km/h |
| 120 km/h | 120.4 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 255 mm tire has a manufacturer-specified rim width range.
235/70R16 dimensions · 255/55R18 dimensions · Open in calculator