235/85R16 vs 265/75R16

235/85R16 is 0.1" taller than 265/75R16 (0.2%)

Diameter difference−0.25%diameter 31.73" → 31.65"
235/85R16265/75R16
235/85R16265/75R16Difference
Overall diameter31.73"31.65"−0.08"
Section width9.25"10.43"+1.18"
Sidewall height7.86"7.82"−0.04"
Circumference99.7"99.4"−0.2"
Revolutions per mile636637+2
Wheel diameter16"16"±0"

Speedometer

ShowsActualDiff
30 mph29.9 mph−0.1
45 mph44.9 mph−0.1
60 mph59.9 mph−0.1
70 mph69.8 mph−0.2
80 mph79.8 mph−0.2

Gear ratio to match

CurrentEquivalent
3.423.41
3.553.54
3.733.72
4.104.09

265/75R16 is 0.08" shorter than 235/85R16, a −0.25% change in diameter, inside the 3% range most shops treat as a safe swap.

Ground clearance changes by 0.04" (half the diameter change), and the tire needs 0.04" less room above it.

265/75R16 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 16" wheel; the sidewall is 0.04" shorter on 265/75R16.

Details: 235/85R16 in inches · 265/75R16 in inches · change sizes in the calculator

FAQ

What is the difference between 235/85R16 and 265/75R16?

265/75R16 is 0.08" shorter (−0.25%) and 1.18" wider than 235/85R16.

Will 265/75R16 change my speedometer?

Yes, by −0.25%. When the speedometer shows 60 mph you would be going 59.9 mph.

Can I replace 235/85R16 with 265/75R16?

Often yes: the diameter change of −0.2% is within the common 3% guideline. Check the load index, speed rating and clearance.