235/85R16 vs 225/75R16

235/85R16 is 2.4" taller than 225/75R16 (7.7%)

Diameter difference−7.69%diameter 31.73" → 29.29"
235/85R16225/75R16
235/85R16225/75R16Difference
Overall diameter31.73"29.29"−2.44"
Section width9.25"8.86"−0.39"
Sidewall height7.86"6.64"−1.22"
Circumference99.7"92.0"−7.7"
Revolutions per mile636689+53
Wheel diameter16"16"±0"

Speedometer

ShowsActualDiff
30 mph27.7 mph−2.3
45 mph41.5 mph−3.5
60 mph55.4 mph−4.6
70 mph64.6 mph−5.4
80 mph73.8 mph−6.2

Gear ratio to match

CurrentEquivalent
3.423.16
3.553.28
3.733.44
4.103.78

225/75R16 is 2.44" shorter than 235/85R16, a −7.69% change in diameter. That is more than the 3% many tire shops use as a limit, so plan on recalibrating the speedometer and checking ABS and stability control.

Ground clearance changes by 1.22" (half the diameter change), and the tire needs 1.22" less room above it.

235/85R16 is 0.39" wider. On the same wheel offset about half of that, 0.20", moves toward the suspension and half toward the fender.

Both fit a 16" wheel; the sidewall is 1.22" shorter on 225/75R16.

Details: 235/85R16 in inches · 225/75R16 in inches · change sizes in the calculator

FAQ

What is the difference between 235/85R16 and 225/75R16?

225/75R16 is 2.44" shorter (−7.69%) and 0.39" narrower than 235/85R16.

Will 225/75R16 change my speedometer?

Yes, by −7.69%. When the speedometer shows 60 mph you would be going 55.4 mph.

Can I replace 235/85R16 with 225/75R16?

It is a −7.7% diameter change, larger than the common 3% guideline, so check clearance and plan to recalibrate.