Do you have plans to go for a new set of tires for your dream vehicle? Are you planning to choose between the 215 55r17 and 225 45r17 tires? If the answer is yes then don’t go any further as this article will answer all your queries.
The article “ 215 55R17 Vs 225 45R17 Tire Size” is such an article that is designed to inform you about all the major differences that these two tires have between them. So, if you really want to gather information regarding these two tires then read the article till the end without skipping anything.
215/55r17 Vs 225/45r17 Tire Size: First table of Comparison
This table looks small but it is full of numerical differences that these two tires possess within them. Here goes the table: –
| 215 55R17 Tires | 225 45R17 Tires |
|---|---|
| Section Width 8.46 inches | Section Width 8.86 inches |
| Sidewall Height 4.66 inches | Sidewall Height 3.99 inches |
| Revs Per Mile 766 | Revs Per Mile 807 |
| Overall Diameter 26.31 inches | Overall Diameter 24.97 inches |
| Circumference 82.66 inches | Circumference 78.45 inches |
| Radius 13.16 inches | Radius 12.49 inches |
| Typical Weight 23 lbs | Typical Weight 22.5 lbs |
| Rim Diameter 17 inches | Rim Diameter 17 inches |
| Tread Depth 9.5/32 inches | Tread Depth 10/32 inches |
| Tire Type ( A-Radial Ply Tire) | Tire Type ( A-Radial Ply Tire) |
215 55r17 Vs 225 45r17 Tire Size: Discussion in Detail
Now let us discuss all the differences that you have already seen above in an elaborate manner. This will help you learn all the basics about the two perfect tires in the market. Here is the discussion: –
Section Width
- Section Width is commonly known as the cross-section width of a tire as well.
- It is measured from one sidewall to the other.
- The measurement is taken at the widest point of the tire.
The section width of the 215 55r17 tires is 8.46 inches. On the other hand, the section width of the 225 45r17 tires is 8.86 inches. The difference between the two tires in this regard is 0.39 inches. Percentage-wise the difference stands at 4.7%. This means the 225 45r17 tires have a slightly higher section width than the 215 55r17 tires.
Sidewall Height
- It is the measurement from the wheel rim to the top of the tire’s tread.
- It is also known as the aspect ratio of a tire and is represented by the letter “R”.
- It protects your wheels from curbs and potholes.
The 215 55r17 tires have a sidewall height of 4.66 inches. On the contrary, the 225 45r17 tires have a sidewall height of 3.99 inches. The difference between the two tires in this respect is 0.67 inches. Percentage-wise the difference stands at 14.4%. The 215 55r17 tires have a slightly higher sidewall height than the 225 45r17 tires.
Revs Per Mile
- It refers to the number of engine revolutions (revs) a vehicle makes in one mile.
- It provides information on a vehicle’s efficiency and performance.
- It is useful in determining the ideal gearing for a vehicle.
The RPM of the 215 55r17 tires is 766. On the contrary, the RPM of the 225 45r17 tires is 807. The difference between the two tires in this regard is 41. Percentage-wise the difference stands at 5.4%. The 225 45r17 tires have a higher RPM than the 215 55r17 tires.
Overall Diameter
- The overall diameter measures the distance across the tire, through its center.
- It provides an amazing driving experience to the users.
- It influences the amount of ground clearance the vehicle has.
The overall diameter of the 215 55r17 tires is 26.31 inches. On the contrary, the overall diameter of the 225 45r17 tires is 24.97 inches. The difference between the two tires in this respect is 1.34 inches. Percentage-wise the difference is 5.1%. The 215 55r17 tires have a slightly higher overall diameter than the 225 45r17 tires.
Circumference
- The circumference of a tire is the distance around the outside of the tire
- It is used to determine the distance traveled by a vehicle in one revolution of tires
- It is important for calculating speed and distance.
The circumference of the 215 55r17 tires is 82.66 inches. On the contrary, the 225 45r17 tires have a circumference of 78.45 inches. The difference between the two tires in the case of the circumference is 4.21 inches. The difference in percentage is 5.1%.
Radius
- It is the measurement of the distance from the center of the tire to the ground.
- It determines the tire size.
- It helps to maintain a proper gear ratio and avoid negative impacts on vehicles.
The 215 55r17 tires have a radius of 13.16 inches. Whereas, the 225 45r17 tires have a radius of 12.49 inches. The difference between the two tires in this respect is 0.67 inches. The 215 55r17 tires have a slightly higher radius than the 225 45r17 tires.
Typical Weight
- It gives us valuable info about the real weight of the tire.
- It is expressed either in pounds or kilograms
- It generally influences the handling and fuel efficiency of the vehicle.
The typical weight of the 215 55r17 tires is 23 lbs. On the contrary, the typical weight of the 225 45r17 tires is 22.5 lbs. The difference between the two tires in this regard is 0.5 lbs only. This means the 225 45r17 tires are slightly less heavy than the 215 55r17 tires.
Rim Diameter
- Rim diameter refers to the measurement of the size of the circular area of a tire.
- It is usually given in inches.
- A larger rim diameter can provide improved handling and stability.
The rim diameter for both the 215 55r17 and 225 45r17 tires is 17 inches each. The rim diameter of a tire is really crucial because it makes a great impact on other aspects of the vehicle. It is important to match the rim diameter with the size specified by the vehicle manufacturer to ensure proper tire fit and wheel clearance.
Tread Depth
- It refers to the measurement of the groove on the surface of a tire.
- The minimum legal tread depth in the United States is 2/32 of an inch.
- It is recommended to replace tires when the tread depth reaches 4/32 of an inch.
The tread depth of the 215 55r17 tires is 9.5/32 inches. On the other hand, the tread depth of the 225 45r17 tires is 10/32 inches. Both the tires have a balanced tread depth which is really great for the users.
Tire Type
- Cord plies are arranged at 90-degree angles to the direction of travel.
- It reduces build-up heat.
- It is the most common tire type in the world.
Both the tires 215 55r17 and 225 45r17 have a radial tire construction type. Radial tire types have a great reputation for providing improved fuel efficiency, longer tire life, increased ride comfort, and better handling.
215 55r17 Vs 225 45r17 Tire Size: 2nd Table of Differences
We have prepared an additional table that will show you some more differences that these two tires have within them. Here is the table: –
| 215 55R17 Tires | 225 45R17 Tires |
|---|---|
| Max Load1477 lbs | Max Load1477 lbs |
| Rim Width Range6-7.50 inches | Rim Width Range7-8.50 inches |
| Max Speed149 mph | Max Speed186 mph |
| Max PSI44 | Max PSI 50 |
| Actual Speed 62.14 mph | Actual Speed65.47 mph |
| Sidewall LettersBlack | Sidewall LettersBlack |
| Aspect Ratio55 | Aspect Ratio45 |
| Speedometer Reading100 km/h | Speedometer Reading105.36 km/h |
| Speedometer Reading StatusCorrect | Speedometer Reading slightly different |
There are many different sizes of tires in the market but these two tires have earned a great reputation for them. Let’s discuss some more points on these two tires. Here is the discussion: –
Max Load
- Max load indicator refers to the maximum load capacity of a tire.
- It is printed on the sidewall of the tire either in pounds or kilograms.
- It depends on factors such as the tire’s construction, size, and speed rating.
The max load indicator for the 215 55r17 tires is 1477 lbs. On the other hand, the max load indicator for the 225 45r17 tires is also 1477 lbs. So, both tires can withstand the same amount of loads for driving safely on the road.
Rim Width Range
- Rim width range is the acceptable range of wheel rim widths for tire use.
- Excessive narrower rim widths can cause tires to overheat and fail.
- Excessive wider rim widths can cause improper tire fit & performance.
The rim width range for the 215 55r17 tires is 6-7.50 inches. On the contrary, the rim width range for the 225 45r17 tires is 7-8.50 inches. Both the tires have the perfect rim widths that would definitely protect your wheels from overheating and other major imperfections.
Max Speed
- Max speed indicator is the highest speed a tire is rated for.
- It depends on tire construction, size, and load capacity.
- Exceeding max speed can cause tire damage & increase the risk of failure.
The max speed for the 215 55r17 tires is 149 mph. Whereas, the max speed for the 225 45r17 tires is 186 mph. The difference between the two tires in this regard is 37 mph. This means the 225 45r17 are slightly faster than the 215 55r17 tires,
Max PSI
- Max PSI refers to the maximum tire pressure that is allowed on a tire.
- It usually influences tire performance & safety.
- It is Indicated on the tire sidewall in pounds per square inch (psi).
The 215 55r17 tires have a max psi of 44. On the contrary, the 225 45r17 tires have a max psi of 50. The difference between the two tires in this respect is only 6. The 225 45r17 tires have a slightly higher psi than the 215 55r17 tires.
Aspect Ratio
- Aspect ratio is the height of the tire’s sidewall as a percentage of its width.
- It influences tire handling, stability, & appearance as well.
- Choose an aspect ratio based on driving style and vehicle performance.
The aspect ratio for the 215 55r17 tires is 55. Whereas, the aspect ratio for the 225 45r17 tires is 45. The difference between the two tires in this regard is only 10. The 215 55r17 tires have a slightly higher aspect ratio than the 215 55r17 tires.
215 55r17 Vs 225 45r17 Tire Size: Differences in Performance
Apart from the all numerical differences discussed above, both of these tires have some more differences that influence their performance. These differences are discussed below: –
Fuel Economy
Tires, which have more rolling resistance, need more fuel to operate and run smoothly on the road. The wider tires generally have more rolling resistance than the narrower tires. In that sense, the 215 55r17 tires need less fuel to operate since they are smaller and have less rolling resistance.
Road Noise
Wider tires capture more air inside the wheel. This causes a lot of noise while running at full speed. The exact opposite is true for the smaller tires. Since the 215 55r17 tires are smaller than the 225 45r17 tires, they capture less air and thus cause less noise while running.
Enhanced Look
Wider tires usually make the vehicle look more attractive and sporty. This increases the aesthetic quality of the vehicle. Since the 225 45r17 tires are bigger than the 215 55r17 tires, they make the vehicle look more attractive.
Also Read: 245 65r17 vs 265 70r17 Tire Size – Spot the Comparison
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Tires with Different Diameters on the Front and Rear Wheels?
In most cases, it is recommended to use tires with the same diameter on both the front and rear wheels. However, some vehicles may be designed to accommodate different tire sizes on the front and rear. Always check the vehicle owner’s manual before making any changes.
Can I Use a Different Tire Brand with the Same Size?
Yes, you can use a different tire brand with the same size as long as it meets the specifications required by your vehicle manufacturer, including load capacity, speed rating, and other requirements.
What Is the Impact of Using Tires with a Different Aspect Ratio or Width?
Using tires with a different aspect ratio or width than specified by the vehicle manufacturer can affect the handling, stability, and ride comfort of the vehicle. It can also cause issues with the suspension, steering, and braking systems, and may cause premature wear of the tires and other components.
What Is the Impact of the Width on a Tire’s Performance?
A wider tire provides a larger contact patch with the road, improving traction and stability. However, a wider tire also increases rolling resistance and may affect fuel efficiency.
Final Thoughts
In the article “215 55R17 Vs 225 45R17 Tire Size” we have discussed all the major differences that these two tires possess. The 215 55R17 tire is a good choice for drivers who prioritize improved fuel efficiency, comfort, and handling in certain road conditions.
On the other hand, the 225 45R17 tire is ideal for drivers who prioritize improved handling, stability, and performance, as well as a sportier appearance. So the choice is yours to choose the perfect tire for your vehicle.
