255/85R16 vs 285/75R16

255/85R16 is 0.2" taller than 285/75R16 (0.7%)

Diameter difference−0.71%diameter 33.07" → 32.83"
255/85R16285/75R16
255/85R16285/75R16Difference
Overall diameter33.07"32.83"−0.24"
Section width10.04"11.22"+1.18"
Sidewall height8.53"8.42"−0.12"
Circumference103.9"103.1"−0.7"
Revolutions per mile610614+4
Wheel diameter16"16"±0"

Speedometer

ShowsActualDiff
30 mph29.8 mph−0.2
45 mph44.7 mph−0.3
60 mph59.6 mph−0.4
70 mph69.5 mph−0.5
80 mph79.4 mph−0.6

Gear ratio to match

CurrentEquivalent
3.423.40
3.553.52
3.733.70
4.104.07

285/75R16 is 0.24" shorter than 255/85R16, a −0.71% change in diameter, inside the 3% range most shops treat as a safe swap.

Ground clearance changes by 0.12" (half the diameter change), and the tire needs 0.12" less room above it.

285/75R16 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 0.12" shorter on 285/75R16.

Details: 255/85R16 in inches · 285/75R16 in inches · change sizes in the calculator

FAQ

What is the difference between 255/85R16 and 285/75R16?

285/75R16 is 0.24" shorter (−0.71%) and 1.18" wider than 255/85R16.

Will 285/75R16 change my speedometer?

Yes, by −0.71%. When the speedometer shows 60 mph you would be going 59.6 mph.

Can I replace 255/85R16 with 285/75R16?

Often yes: the diameter change of −0.7% is within the common 3% guideline. Check the load index, speed rating and clearance.