235/80R17 vs 265/70R17

235/80R17 is 0.2" taller than 265/70R17 (0.6%)

Diameter difference−0.62%diameter 31.80" → 31.61"
235/80R17265/70R17
235/80R17265/70R17Difference
Overall diameter31.80"31.61"−0.20"
Section width9.25"10.43"+1.18"
Sidewall height7.40"7.30"−0.10"
Circumference99.9"99.3"−0.6"
Revolutions per mile634638+4
Wheel diameter17"17"±0"

Speedometer

ShowsActualDiff
30 mph29.8 mph−0.2
45 mph44.7 mph−0.3
60 mph59.6 mph−0.4
70 mph69.6 mph−0.4
80 mph79.5 mph−0.5

Gear ratio to match

CurrentEquivalent
3.423.40
3.553.53
3.733.71
4.104.07

265/70R17 is 0.20" shorter than 235/80R17, a −0.62% change in diameter, inside the 3% range most shops treat as a safe swap.

Ground clearance changes by 0.10" (half the diameter change), and the tire needs 0.10" less room above it.

265/70R17 is 1.18" wider. On the same wheel offset about half of that, 0.59", moves toward the suspension and half toward the fender.

Both fit a 17" wheel; the sidewall is 0.10" shorter on 265/70R17.

Details: 235/80R17 in inches · 265/70R17 in inches · change sizes in the calculator

FAQ

What is the difference between 235/80R17 and 265/70R17?

265/70R17 is 0.20" shorter (−0.62%) and 1.18" wider than 235/80R17.

Will 265/70R17 change my speedometer?

Yes, by −0.62%. When the speedometer shows 60 mph you would be going 59.6 mph.

Can I replace 235/80R17 with 265/70R17?

Often yes: the diameter change of −0.6% is within the common 3% guideline. Check the load index, speed rating and clearance.