Do you have any intention to purchase the best set of tires for your vehicle but don’t know which one to choose between the 215 45r17 vs 225 45r17 tire size? Then look no further as this article will guide you thoroughly.
Both of these sizes “215 45r17 and 225 45r17” are considered to be the best tires, which are dominating the marketplace for a long period of time now. The tires offer a sportier look and can also improve handling.
However, there are a few key differences between these two sizes that you should be aware of before making a decision.
215 45R17 Vs 225 45R17 Tires: Table of Key differences
We have formed a table that contains all the key differences that these two tires have in between them. Looking at these differences, you will be able to make a proper decision for your vehicle. Here is the table: –
| Key Points | 215 45R17 Tires | 225 45R17 Tires |
|---|---|---|
| Section Width | 8.86 inches | 8.46 inches |
| Sidewall Height | 3.81 inches | 3.99 inches |
| Overall Diameter | 24.62 inches | 24.97 inches |
| Circumference | 77.34 inches | 78.45 inches |
| Rim Diameter | 17 inches | 17 inches |
| Radius | 12.31 inches | 12.49 inches |
| Revs Per Mile | 807 | 819 |
| Tire Type | A-Radial Ply Tire | A-Radial Ply Tire |
| Typical Weight | 21.4 lbs | 22.5 lbs |
| Tread Depth | 9.5/32 inches | 10/32 inches |
215 45R17 Vs 225 45R17 Tire Size: Differences in Detail
Now, let us go through the differences in detail for a better and clearer understanding. Here goes the main discussion: –
Section Width
The cross-section width or section width of a tire is the distance between the outer sidewalls of the tire when it is mounted and inflated to its recommended pressure. It is typically measured in millimeters or inches.
It is used to indicate the overall width of the tire. The section width can affect the handling and stability of a vehicle, as well as the fit of the tire on the wheel. It also affects the ride comfort and the steering response of the vehicle.
The section width of the 215 45r17 tires is 8.86 inches. On the other hand, the section width of the 225 45r17 tires is 8.46 inches. The difference between the two tires in terms of section width is 0.40 inches.
Sidewall Height
The sidewall height of a tire, also called the aspect ratio, is the ratio of the tire’s sidewall height to its section width. It is typically represented as a percentage.
The sidewall height is a key factor in determining the overall diameter of the tire and can also affect the tire’s handling and performance characteristics.
A lower aspect ratio indicates a shorter sidewall and a larger diameter, while a higher aspect ratio indicates a taller sidewall and a smaller diameter.
The 215 45r17 tires have a sidewall height of 3.81 inches. On the contrary, the 225 45r17 tires have a sidewall height of 3.99 inches. The difference between the two sidewalls is 0.18 inches.
Overall Diameter
The overall diameter of a tire is the distance from the outermost point of the tire’s tread to the opposite outermost point of the tread and it is measured in inches.
The overall diameter of a tire is affected by several factors, including the section width, sidewall height, and the width of the rim on which the tire is mounted.
The overall diameter of a tire is important to consider because it must be compatible with the vehicle’s suspension and brake components and also because it can affect the vehicle’s speedometer and odometer readings.
The overall diameter of the 215 45r17 tires is 24.62 inches. Whereas, the overall diameter of the 225 45r17 tires is 24.97 inches. The difference in diameter between the two tires is 0.35 inches.
Circumference
The circumference of a tire is the distance around the outermost point of the tire’s tread. It is measured in inches or millimeters. The tire’s circumference is affected by several factors, including the width, aspect ratio, and diameter of the tire.
The circumference of a tire is important to consider because it can affect the vehicle’s speedometer and odometer readings, as well as the vehicle’s overall performance.
The 215 45r17 tires have a circumference of 77.34 inches. On the contrary, the 225 45r17 tires have a circumference of 78.45 inches. The difference between the two tires in this regard is 1.11 inches.
Rim Diameter
The rim diameter of a tire is the diameter of the wheel on which the tire is mounted. It is usually measured in inches. This measurement is taken at the point where the tire’s bead seats against the wheel.
It’s important to note that the rim diameter is not the same as the wheel diameter, which includes the width of the wheel as well. The rim diameter must match the tire size specified by the vehicle manufacturer to ensure proper fit and performance.
If a tire with a different rim diameter is used, it can cause issues with the vehicle’s suspension, handling, and braking, as well as affect the vehicle’s speedometer and odometer readings. Both tires 215 45r17 and 225 45r17 have the same rim diameter.
Radius
The radius of a tire is half the distance from one end of the tire’s tread to the opposite end and it is measured in inches or millimeters. The radius is related to the overall diameter of the tire, which is the distance around the outermost point of the tire’s tread.
The radius is important to consider because it can affect the vehicle’s performance and handling. A tire with a larger radius will have a larger diameter and a softer ride, while a tire with a smaller radius will have a smaller diameter and a firmer ride.
The radius of the 215 45r17 tires is 12.31 inches. On the other hand, the radius of the 225 45r17 tires is 12.49 inches. The difference between the two tires in this regard is 0.18 inches.
Tire Type
Both tires 215 45r17 and 225 45r17 have the same tire construction type which is radial. Radial ply tires are a type of tire construction in which the plies (layers of fabric) that make up the tire’s carcass are arranged at a 90-degree angle to the centerline of the tread.
The plies run radially across the tire from the bead to the shoulder. Radial ply tires have become the most common type of tire construction in use today.
The main advantage of radial-ply tires is that they offer better handling and a more comfortable ride than bias-ply tires.
Radial tires also have a longer life span and can carry a heavier load than bias-ply tires. They also have better fuel efficiency due to less rolling resistance.
Typical Weight
The weight of a tire can vary depending on the size and type of tire. A typical passenger car tire can weigh anywhere from 15 to 40 pounds, while a truck or SUV tire can weigh up to 50 pounds or more.
A larger tire size and construction type such as a truck tire will be heavier than a smaller passenger car tire. It’s important to note that the weight of the tire affects the vehicle’s performance, handling, and fuel consumption.
Heavier tires will require more energy to move and can decrease fuel efficiency. So, when purchasing new tires, it’s important to consider the weight of the tire and how it will impact the vehicle’s performance.
The typical weight of the 215 45r17 tires is 21.4 lbs. Whereas, the typical weight of the 225 45r17 tires is 22.5 lbs. The difference between the two tires in this respect is 1.1 lbs.
215 45R17 Vs 225 45R17 Tires: 2nd Table of Key Differences
| Key Points | 215 45R17 Tires | 225 45R17 Tires |
|---|---|---|
| Actual Speed | 62.14 mph | 61.26 mph |
| Rim Width Range | 7-8 inches | 7-8.50 inches |
| Sidewall Letters | Black | Black |
| Max Speed | 186 mph | 186 mph |
| Max PSI | 50 | 50 |
| Max Load | 1356 lbs | 1477 lbs |
| Speedometer Reading | 100 km/h | 98.58 km/h |
| Speedometer Reading Status | Correct | slightly different |
Rim Width Range
The rim width range of a tire is the range of widths of the wheel on which the tire can be safely mounted. The rim width range is specified by the tire manufacturer and can vary depending on the size and type of tire.
The proper rim width for a tire is important for the tire’s performance and safety. When a tire is mounted on a wheel that is too narrow or too wide, it can cause issues such as uneven wear, poor handling, and even a potential for tire failure.
The rim width range for the 215 45r17 tires is 7-8 inches. On the contrary, the rim width range for the 225 45r17 tires is 7-8.50 inches. The difference between the two is 0-0.5 inches.
Actual Speed
Actual speed of a tire refers to the speed at which a tire is capable of safely carrying a load. It’s important to note that the actual speed rating of a tire is not the same as the maximum speed at which a vehicle can safely travel.
The actual speed rating is the maximum speed at which a tire can safely carry a load under laboratory conditions and it should not be exceeded.
The maximum safe speed for a vehicle is determined by many factors including the vehicle’s suspension, braking, and other mechanical systems.
The actual speed for the 215 45r17 tires is 62.14 mph. Whereas, the actual speed for the 225 45r17 tires is 61.26 mph. The difference between the two in this regard is 0.88 mph.
Sidewall Letters
The sidewall of a tire contains several important pieces of information, including the tire’s size, load-carrying capacity, and maximum inflation pressure.
It may also contain other information such as the tire’s speed rating and the manufacturer’s name and logo. The sidewalls for both the tires 215 45r17 and 225 45r17 contain all the information mentioned above.
Max Load
The maximum load indicator on a tire is a number that represents the maximum weight that the tire can safely carry when it is properly inflated. This number can be found on the sidewall of the tire and is usually preceded by the letters “max” or “load”.
This number is an important factor to consider when selecting tires for a vehicle, as overloading a tire can cause it to fail or wear out prematurely.
The max load capacity for the 215 45r17 tires is 1356 lbs. The max load capacity for the 225 45r17 tires is 1477 lbs. The difference between the two tires in this respect is 121 lbs.
Speedometer Reading
The 215 45r17 tires have a speedometer reading of 100 km/h. Whereas, the 225 45r17 tires have a speedometer reading of 98.58 km/h.
The difference between the two tires in this regard is 1.42 km/h. The 225 45r17 tires show a slightly different speedometer reading than the 215 45r17 tires
What Are the Advantages of 215 45R17 and 225 45R17 Tires?
Both the 215 45r17 and 225 45r17 tires provide distinct advantages to the users. Some of the main advantages of these two tires are discussed below:
Advantages of 215 45R17 Tires
Improved Fuel Efficiency
The aspect ratio (45) of this tire size is relatively low, which means that the tire has a shorter sidewall and a larger contact patch with the road. This can improve fuel efficiency by reducing rolling resistance.
Better Ride Comfort
The low aspect ratio of this tire size can also help to provide a smoother ride by reducing the number of road vibrations that are transmitted to the vehicle’s cabin.
Good in Wet Conditions
The tread pattern of this tire size is often designed to channel water away from the contact patch, which can help to improve traction and handling in wet conditions.
Advantages of 225 45R17 Tires
Improved Handling and Stability
The larger width of the tire (225) provides more contact patches with the road, resulting in more grip and better stability.
Better Braking Performance
The wider contact patch provided by this tire size can help to improve braking performance by providing more rubber on the road to grip.
Better Aesthetics
A wider tire can give a more aggressive and sportier look to the vehicle. The 225 45r17 tires provide a more aesthetic look to the vehicle.
Also Read: 205 50R17 Vs 225 45R17 Tire Size: Table of Differences
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section we are going to discuss some of the most commonly asked questions regarding various types of tires in the market. These questions are discussed below: –
Is It Possible for Me to Fit 225 45r17 Tires Instead of 215 45r17 Tires?
If your vehicle is designed to install the 215 45r17 tires then you can most certainly install the 225 45r17 tires quite safely because both tires have the same aspect ratio and tire sizes.
Which Tire Is Noisier 215 45r17 or 225 45r17?
Wider tires usually have more contact patches than smaller tires. Since the 225 45r17 tires are wider, it has more contact patches than the 215 45r17 tires. Thus the 225 45r17 tires are noisier than the 215 45r17 tires.
Which Tire Burn More Gas 215 45r17 or 225 45r17?
Bigger tires need more gas than smaller ones. Since 225 45r17 tires are bigger they have more rolling resistance. Thus the 225 45r17 tires burn more gas than the 215 45r17 tires.
What Does the Number 225 means in 225 45r17 Tires?
The number 225 actually indicates the width of the tire. It is given in millimeters. If you convert the width to centimeters, it will be 22.5 cm wide.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, when comparing 215 45R17 vs 225 45R17 tires, the main difference is the width of the tire. The 215 tires have a width of 215mm and the 225 tires have a width of 225mm. This difference in width will affect the overall performance and handling of your vehicle.
It’s important to consider your driving needs and preferences, as well as the performance and handling capabilities of your vehicle when deciding which tire size is right for you.
