245/70R17 vs 265/50R20
Switching from 245/70R17 to 265/50R20 decreases the overall diameter by 1.8 mm (0.2%). That is within the usual ±3% guideline.
| 245/70R17 | 265/50R20 | Difference (mm / revs) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section width | 245 mm | 265 mm | +20.0 |
| Sidewall height | 171.5 mm | 132.5 mm | -39.0 |
| Rim diameter | 431.8 mm | 508.0 mm | +76.2 |
| Overall diameter | 774.8 mm | 773.0 mm | -1.8 |
| Circumference | 2,434.1 mm | 2,428.5 mm | -5.6 |
| Revolutions | 411 per km | 412 per km | +1.0 |
Speedometer effect
With 265/50R20 fitted on a car calibrated for 245/70R17, the real speed when the speedometer shows:
| Speedometer shows | Actual speed |
|---|---|
| 50 km/h | 49.9 km/h |
| 80 km/h | 79.8 km/h |
| 100 km/h | 99.8 km/h |
| 120 km/h | 119.7 km/h |
Smaller tires make the speedometer read higher than the actual speed. 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 265 mm tire has a manufacturer-specified rim width range.
245/70R17 dimensions · 265/50R20 dimensions · Open in calculator