265/50R20 vs 265/70R16
Switching from 265/50R20 to 265/70R16 increases the overall diameter by 4.4 mm (0.6%). That is within the usual ±3% guideline.
| 265/50R20 | 265/70R16 | Difference (mm / revs) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section width | 265 mm | 265 mm | +0.0 |
| Sidewall height | 132.5 mm | 185.5 mm | +53.0 |
| Rim diameter | 508.0 mm | 406.4 mm | -101.6 |
| Overall diameter | 773.0 mm | 777.4 mm | +4.4 |
| Circumference | 2,428.5 mm | 2,442.3 mm | +13.8 |
| Revolutions | 412 per km | 409 per km | -3.0 |
Speedometer effect
With 265/70R16 fitted on a car calibrated for 265/50R20, the real speed when the speedometer shows:
| Speedometer shows | Actual speed |
|---|---|
| 50 km/h | 50.3 km/h |
| 80 km/h | 80.5 km/h |
| 100 km/h | 100.6 km/h |
| 120 km/h | 120.7 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 265 mm tire has a manufacturer-specified rim width range.
265/50R20 dimensions · 265/70R16 dimensions · Open in calculator