235 85R16 vs 255 85R16: A Comprehensive Comparison of Tire Sizes

The 255 85R16 is a wider tire than the 235 85R16.

255 85R16 Vs 235 85R16

When comparing tires, the 255/85R16 and the 235/85R16 are quite similar in terms of performance. Both tires have identical load rating, speed rating and complete performance specifications. However, what sets them apart is their size and load capacity.

The 255/85R16 tire is larger than the 235/85R16; specifically, it has a section width of 255 millimeters compared to the 235 millimeter width of the other tire. Its contact patch is also 10 millimeter wider. This means that its load capacity is also higher at 3195 pounds instead of 2875 pounds as with the 235 model.

It’s important to note that while bigger tires can carry more weight, they will also wear down faster due to their heavier weight and greater surface area. Larger tires also operate at lower rpm since they must complete more revolutions per mile compared to smaller ones. This means that increased fuel consumption should be expected when using a larger tire such as the 255/85R16 model compared to the 235/85R16 or any other smaller standard size tire.

Tire Diameter

The difference in tire diameter between the 255 85R16 and 235 85R16 is 20 millimeters (mm). This difference will result in a noticeable performance change when it comes to how the tires handle. A larger tire diameter gives a greater height from the ground, which means more ground clearance and better performance in off-road conditions. It also leads to a smoother ride, with less bounce over bumps. The larger tires typically also offer better traction in wet or slippery conditions. On the other hand, smaller tire diameters provide improved handling on paved surfaces due to their lower profile and reduced rolling resistance, as well as being more aerodynamic for improved fuel efficiency.

Tire Width

The width of a tire is measured from sidewall to sidewall and is usually expressed in millimeters (mm). In this case, the difference between the 255 85R16 and 235 85R16 is 20 mm. This difference results in handling differences between the two sizes of tires.

The wider tire has a greater contact patch with the road, which means it has more grip and can corner better than its narrower counterpart. However, this increase in grip comes at the expense of increased rolling resistance, meaning that they are less efficient when it comes to fuel economy. Additionally, wider tires tend to be slightly heavier than their narrower counterparts, contributing further to decreased fuel efficiency.

Tire Construction

The construction of a tire can have a significant impact on both performance and durability of the tire itself. The construction of a given tire will determine how it behaves when cornering or braking, as well as how well it wears over time. Generally speaking, cheaper tires are constructed using fewer plies or layers of rubber whereas higher-end tires use more plies for improved durability and performance.

When comparing the 255 85R16 vs 235 85R16 you will likely find that they have fairly similar construction methods since they are both designed for similar uses such as highway driving or light off-roading (depending on terrain). However if you were comparing an all terrain tire with an ultra high performance summer tire then you would likely find significant differences in construction due to their intended uses.

Durability Differences

The difference in durability between 255 85R16 and 235 85R16 tires can be significant. The 255 85R16 tire is a wider, heavier, and larger tire than the 235 85R16, which can result in a more durable product that can handle higher loads and speeds. The extra width of the 255 85R16 tire also helps to disperse heat more evenly across its surface, reducing the risk of tread separation or other forms of damage. However, the 235 85R16 tire is often lighter and more maneuverable due to its size, which can be advantageous in certain driving conditions.

Aspect Ratio

The aspect ratio of a tire is important to consider when comparing tires. Aspect ratio describes how tall a tires sidewall is relative to its width. A lower aspect ratio (such as 55) indicates that the sidewalls are relatively short for the width of the tire, while higher aspect ratios (such as 95) indicate that the sidewalls are relatively tall for their width. The aspect ratio for both 255 85R16 and 235 85R16 tires is 85, meaning that both types have similar sidewall heights relative to their respective widths.

Comfort Factor

When it comes to comfort factor, both 255 85R16 and 235 85R16 tires offer different benefits depending on what type of driving you do most often. The wider 255 85R16 tire offers better stability at higher speeds thanks to its greater width and contact patch with the road surface. This makes them ideal for highway driving or other high speed applications where stability is paramount. On the other hand, the narrower 235 85R16 tire offers improved handling at lower speeds due to its smaller contact patch with the road surface. This makes them ideal for city driving or other low speed applications where maneuverability is key.

Load Indexes

The load index of a tire indicates how much weight it can safely carry at maximum speed. The load index for both 255 85R16 and 235 85R16 tires are different; however they are both within industry standards for passenger vehicles so there should be no issues with either type when it comes to carrying passengers safely at maximum speed limits. The load index for a 255 85R116 is 109 while that for a 235 85R116 is 100, indicating that the former can safely carry heavier loads than the latter at maximum speed limits without compromising safety or performance.

FAQ & Answers

Q: What is the difference in tire diameter between 255 85R16 and 235 85R16?
A: The tire diameter of a 255 85R16 is roughly 1.6 inches larger than a 235 85R16.

Q: What performance differences can be expected from 255 85R16 and 235 85R16 tires?
A: The larger tire diameter of the 255 85R16 will typically provide better traction, braking and handling capabilities than the 235 85R16 due to its increased contact patch with the ground. Additionally, the wider 255 85R16 will provide better cornering stability in comparison to the narrower 235 85R16.

Q: How do 255 85R16 and 235 85R16 tires differ in terms of construction?
A: The larger size of the 255 85R16 tire typically requires stronger materials for construction in order to support its increased weight. This results in a greater level of durability for the 255 85R16 compared to the lighter duty construction found on a 235 85R16 tire.

Q: What are the aspect ratio differences between 255 85R16 and 235 85R16 tires?
A: The aspect ratio on a 255 85 R 16 is 55, while it is 65 on a 23585 R 16. A lower aspect ratio generally means there is less sidewall flex, resulting in improved handling and increased responsiveness at higher speeds, although this comes at the expense of comfort levels due to reduced shock absorption.

Q: What are the load indexes for both 25585 R 16 and 23585 R 16 tires?
A: The load index for a 25585 R 16 tire is 121 while that of a 23585 R 16 is 115. This indicates that when inflated to their maximum pressure rating, a25585 R 16 can support up to 3195 lbs per tire compared to 2874 lbs per tire for 23585 R 16 tires

The 255/85R16 tire has a larger section width, making it a better choice for off-road driving where traction is key. It also has a larger overall diameter which can help improve handling and performance in certain applications. However, the 235/85R16 tire has a lower rolling resistance rating which makes it better suited for highway driving and improved fuel economy. Depending on the driver’s intended use, either tire size could be suitable.