Comparison Guide: 205 75r15 vs 225 75r15 Tire Size

Are you trying to figure out what size tires to buy for your vehicle? It can be difficult to choose from so many options. Especially when the two tire sizes with the same aspect ratio and wheel diameter like 20575r15 vs 22575r15

  • There is a noticeable difference in handling and stability between these two tires.
  • There are two different weights.
  • These tires differ in size and weight, which affects responsiveness, performance, and fuel economy.

As I examine their various components and analyze their differences, I will compare these two types of tires. This information should assist you in choosing the right tire size. For more details go through the article. 

Basic Difference Table Between 205 75r15 Vs 225 75r15 Tire Size

205 75r15 vs 225 75r15 Tire Size

The following table lists the major differences between these two tires. For a better understanding, look at the table below: –

Features205 75r15 225 75r15 
Section Width8.1 inches8.9inches
Overall Diameter27.1 inches28.3 inches
Aspect Ratio75%75%
Wheel Diameter15 inches15 inches
Tire Weight29lbs34lbs
Tire Pressure65psi80 psi
Circumference85.1 inches88.8inches
Tread Depth8/32nds8/32nds
Rim Diameter15 inches15 inches
Load index capacity2150 lbs2833 lbs
Speed Rating87mph87mph
Revs Per Mile767rpm734 rpm

Section Width

  • Tire’s section width refers to its sidewall-to-sidewall width.
  • It is also known as the cross-section width of a tire.
  • A tire’s width is the first number in its size information.
  • Tires with a wider section width generally have better traction.

The section width of the 205 75r15 tires is 8.1 inches. In contrast, the section width of the 225 75r15 tires is 8.9 inches. Regarding section width, there is a difference of 0.8 inches between them.

Overall Diameter

  • A tire’s overall diameter is its outer diameter at its tread center.
  • The first number on the tire size indicates the overall diameter
  • A larger tire’s overall diameter can improve fuel economy.  
  • A smaller tire’s overall diameter can improve handling and acceleration.  

225 75r15 tires measure 28.3 inches overall diameter, and 205 75r15 tires measure 27.1 inches overall diameter.

The difference between the two tires’ overall diameter is 1.2 inches. Though the difference is insignificant, it can affect how the vehicle performs on different roads.

Aspect Ratio

  • An aspect ratio can be found after the slash marks on the tire size.
  • In terms of tire performance, it is an important specification.   
  • Lower aspect ratio tires are usually better at handling than tires with higher ratios.
  • Aspect ratios can also influence tire overall diameters and circumferences.  

There is no difference between the 205 75r15 & 225 75r15 tires’ aspect ratio because both are a 75% aspect ratio.

Wheel Diameter

  • A wheel’s diameter is typically measured from top to bottom or across its face.
  • Diameters are measured across the front face of a wheel, excluding the lip and edges.
  • Wide wheels provide more grip on dry roads.
  • In loose snow and slush, narrower wheels perform better.

There is no difference in wheel diameter between 205 75r15 tire size and 225 75r15 tire size. Both come with 15 inches wheel diameter.

Tire Weight

  • Tire weight varies considerably based on size, construction, and intended use.
  •  Fuel efficiency plays a unique role in tire weight. 
  • For SUVs and heavy-duty trucks, heavier tires are a better choice.
  • Having lighter tires improves vehicle performance during braking, acceleration, and steering.

In comparison with 225 75r15, 205 75r15 has a significant weight difference. A 205 75r15 tire may weigh approximately 29 lbs, while a 225 75r15 tire may weigh nearly 34 lbs.

The weight difference between these two tires is almost 5 lbs, which affects the performance and fuel economy of the vehicle.

Tire Pressure

  • The amount of air inside a tire is called tire pressure.
  • A tire’s pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (psi) or kilograms per square meter (kPA).
  • Tires should be inflated to the maximum PSI.  
  • If a tire is overinflated beyond its maximum PSI, its lifespan can be reduced.  

The tire pressure on 205 tires is 65 psi, while the pressure on 225 tires is 80 psi. The difference in tire pressure between the two tires is 15 psi.

Circumference

  • A tire’s circumference, also known as its perimeter, is the distance around its outside edge. 
  • Tire circumference is strongly influenced by tire pressure.
  • The circumference of a tire can impact the transmission and gearing of a vehicle. 
  • Tire circumference determines how many rotations are needed to cover a specific distance, which affects the vehicle’s effective gear ratio.   

205 tires have a circumference of 85.1 inches, while 225 tires have a circumference of 88.8 inches. A significant difference between the circumferences of the two tires is 3.7 inches. Car handling can be affected by the circumference.  

Tread Depth

  • A tire’s tread depth is the distance between the top of the tread rubber and the bottom of the deepest slot.
  • All main grooves of the tire have tread depth indicators evenly spaced.
  • A tire’s tread depth plays a significant role in its performance, safety, and durability.
  • Tread depth has a remarkable impact on traction and handling.  

Tire 205 75r15 and tire225 75r15 have no difference in tread depth. Both come with 8/32nds tread depth. 

Rim Diameter

  • The distance between its two bead seats determines a rim’s diameter.
  • Additionally, a wheel’s diameter and offset are included in its measurement.
  • Rim diameter has a remarkable impact on tire selection. 
  • Tire sizes are designed to fit specific rim diameters so that rim diameters may limit the range of tire options available for a vehicle.

Both 205 75r15 and 225 75r15 tires have a 15-inch rim diameter. It means that both tires are designed to fit 15-inch rims.

Load index capacity

  • Tires with proper inflation can safely carry a certain amount of weight, called load index capacity.
  • The load index number indicates how much load a tire can carry. 
  • When the load index is higher, the load-carrying capacity is higher.
  • You can find the load index after the tire size information on the sidewall of your tire. 

205 tires have a load index capacity of 2150 lbs, while 225 tires have a load index capacity of 2833 lbs. There is a 633 lbs difference between the load index capacities of the two tires.

Speed Rating

  • Tire speed ratings indicate how fast a tire can maintain over time.
  • There is a certain speed at which tires will stop performing as designed.
  • Generally, the higher the speed rating, the better the handling and control
  • This number measures the maximum safe operating speed of a tire.

205 tires and 225 tires both have a speed rating of 87mph. The maximum speed of both tires is 87 mph. 

Revs Per Mile

  • The number of times a tire rotates on its axis per mile is called revolutions per mile (RPM).
  • Depending on the tire manufacturer, revolutions per mile may be measured in a laboratory or calculated from previous test results.
  • A tire with a higher revolution per mile can cover more ground quickly.
  • Lower revolutions per mile limit a tire’s ability to cover more distance.

205 75r15s have 767 revolutions per mile, while 225 75r15s have 734. 205 55r16 tires will go around 767 times a mile, while 225 75r15 tires will go around 737 times. Between these tire sizes, there is a 33-rotational difference.

205 75r15 vs 225 75r15 tire size Additional Difference Table

205 75r15 and 225 75r15 are distinguished primarily by their sizes. To better understand the tires, let’s examine the aspects listed in the table and discuss them. 

Features205 75r15225 75r15 
Rim Width Range5-7.5 inches6-7 inches
Noise Quality SmootherSlight noise than 205
Grip & TractionBetter traction in snow and wet surfaceGive better traction both on wet and dry surface
Construction TypeRadial Radial
Radius13.6 inches14.1 inches

Rim Width Range

  • For a particular tire size, the recommended width of the wheel is the rim width range.
  • Potholes will damage the narrower the rim, the more likely the tire.
  • A tire’s handling can be affected by rim widths outside the recommended range.
  • Tire section width changes by approximately 2/10″ for every half-inch change in rim width, according to industry guidelines.

205 tires have rim widths ranging from 5 to 7.5 inches, while 225 tires range from 6 to 7 inches. The difference is only 1.5 inches. It may seem insignificant, but wider rims give you better driving traction.

Noise Quality

A noisy car tire might make it difficult to enjoy a good ride. Before purchasing a tire, consider how much noise it can make. A 205 75r15 tire is less noisy than a 225 75r15 tire.

Construction Type

The construction type indicates how the tire is made. Tires are mainly constructed in two ways.

  • Radial
  • Cross ply

The two types of tires are constructed similarly because both are radial.

Grip & Traction

A reliable grip and traction depend equally on the width of your tire and the surface you’re riding on. The wider the tire, the more grip it has on the road, but the slower the speed.

20575r15 tire size will give you better grip and traction on wet and snowy surfaces. In contrast, 22575r15 size tires will give you better grip and traction on wet and dry surfaces.

Radius

  • A tire’s radius is half its diameter.
  •  The radius of the tire = sidewall height + rim radius 
  • A measurement from the center to the outer edge.
  • When it comes to braking and steering, tire radius plays a vital role. 

The radius of the 205 75r15 tires is 13.6 inches. In contrast, the radius of the 225 75r15 tires is 14.1 inches. In this regard, there is a 0.5-inch difference between the two tires.

Which Factors Should Consider When Find The Right Tire Size?

Choosing the right tires for your car can be challenging for some car owners. The following factors should be considered before choosing a tire:

Tire Size

The first three digits can determine a tire’s width on its label. Wider tires provide more contact with the road, which is better on wet roads.

A narrower tire has a smaller contact area, which means it is less noisy when driving, but it provides a reduced grip, regardless of whether the weather is nice.

The larger the tire, the lower your fuel economy, while the smaller the tire, the greater the fuel economy. Tires with larger diameters also have higher rolling resistance, requiring more effort to roll.

Tire Capability 

Aside from tire size, consider which tire capabilities will benefit you most. You may seek longevity, high performance, smooth handling, or all-season capabilities. 

Depending on the type of car you drive and the climate you drive in, you may also need specialty tires:

  1. All-Season Tires:

However, if you live in an area with extreme weather, especially when it comes to snow and sleet, these tires could be better.

  • Snow Tires:

Snow tires, also known as winter tires, are made from rubber that won’t stiffen in low temperatures.

  • Performance Tires:

Purchasing high-performance tires is a good idea if you own a sports car. The tires can operate at high speeds and grip the ground like racing tires, but they wear out faster than others.

  • Tire Longevity 

Take your travel habits into consideration when selecting tires. It is essential to consider the number of miles you drive when shopping for tires. You’ll need tires designed for longevity with a high treadwear rating if you’re constantly on the road.

Your driving habits affect the lifespan of your tires more than just distance. Tire wear can also be accelerated by stop-and-go traffic due to the constant braking.

  • Tire capacity

Your reasons for replacing your tires also influence the tires you choose.

The treadwear across all your tires usually indicates that you need to replace your tires entirely. Before committing to new tires, consider tire size, capability, and longevity factors. When Choosing tires, consider tire capacity as well.

  • Fuel Economy

Regardless of your time driving on the highway, you should consider fuel efficiency when choosing tires. Choosing the right tires can reduce your car’s fuel consumption by up to 20%, saving you money every time you fill up.

It would help if you had tires with low rolling resistance. These will make you drive more efficiently. A tire’s fuel efficiency rating ranges from A to G, which can be found on its label. Keep your tires in good condition to maximize fuel efficiency.

Fuel Efficiency Rating Chart

SymbolRating
A+/- 000 l/100km
B+/- 010 l/100km
C+/-012l/100km
E+/-014l/100km
F+/- 015l/100km
G+/- 015l/100km

Carrying Capacity

When choosing tires, it is important to consider tire size, which is determined by load rating.

An industry-set and fully optimized load rating describes the amount of weight a tire can carry. There are two types of load ratings: numbers and letters. Each rating corresponds to a maximum load pressure, measured in pounds per square inch (psi).

The load rating of a vehicle varies not only based on its type (such as a sedan versus an SUV) but also based on its make and model.

Load- Carrying Capacity Index Ratings

Load Range Ply Rating Load RangePly Rating
A2G14
4H16
C6J18
D8L20
10M22
F12N24

Noise Level 

Another important factor to consider is the noise level of your tire. You can get a smoother ride by investing in tires that reduce noise. Additionally, this will reduce noise pollution levels in our cities and towns. Wider tires generally produce more noise

From My Perspective

In comparing 205 75r15 and 225 75r15 tires, there are a few key differences to keep in mind. A 225 75r15 tire provides more ground clearance and a larger contact patch for increased traction and stability than a 205 75r15 tire. 

22575r15 tires will give you better grip and traction both on dry and wet surface. And it will help you to carry higher load then 20575r15 tires. 

Though, the large size may also result in a decrease in fuel efficiency and noise levels on the road. The higher tire pressure on 225 tires can slightly affect your fuel economy. 

For a smooth and comfortable ride, 225 tires are the best choice. It will give an excellent riding experience on any kind of surface.

Read More: 255 75r15 vs 31×10 5r15 Tire Size – The Ultimate Guide

Final Thoughts

Before choosing between 205 75r15 and 225 75r15 tire sizes, it is crucial to understand the differences between their sizes, performance, and efficiency.

The 225 75r15 tire provides better off-road performance and improved stability at high carrying capacities than the 205 75r15 tire.

The article might have satisfied all your requirements regarding 205 75r15 vs 225 75r15 tire sizes. It is up to you to decide which tire is best suited to your needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

By reading these questions’ answers, you will gain more knowledge about tire size

Can I Have Two Different Sizes Of Tires?

It is generally not a good idea to have two tires of different sizes on the same axle.

In the short term, you probably won’t have any damage from this, but in the long run, you run the risk of damaging your car’s differential.
 
This is because the diameter of the two tires is close, which means the rolling radius will be about the same.

Can I Put 225 Tires Instead Of 205?

It is technically possible to interchange the 205 with the 225 based on rim width. It might not be comfortable for wider tires to fit in the space created for the narrower tire place.

Although both tires have the same speed rating, just D ratings, the load capacity cannot be the same. It’s probably the most important category when it comes to tire interchange.

How Much Difference In Tire Size Is Acceptable?

In general, larger rims need to be used with thinner tires since the tires need to fit inside the wheel wells.

Generally, it’s recommended to go with tires that are within 3% of the factory recommended diameter.

I am an engineer and the chief editor of tireslover.com, I am a passionate blogger as well. I am the person who can ensure a perfect, informative, honest, and helpful, guide with 10 years of work experience with different varieties of tires.

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