Do you want to upgrade your vehicle’s performance for challenging off-road rides with 37″ or 38″ tires? Both come with great features to provide optimal performance for their users. As a result, you may get caught in a dilemma to choose between 37″ and 38″ tires. Don’t panic; this helpful guide on “37 vs 38 inch tires” will help you decide the right tire size for your vehicle.
A 37″ tire is suitable and great for off-road driving. Its bigger size lets you easily overcome off-road obstacles. On the contrary, a 38″ tire is ideal for off-road trucks to provide great performance in all terrains. Let’s check out the comparison between these two tires from the following parts.
Difference between 37 vs 38 inch tires
Both of them offer heavy-duty performance based on their characteristics. For example, a 37-inch tire is bigger than regular tire sizes. That lets it grab more space to provide optimal support to roll over various obstacles. If you need to drive frequently off-road, go for 37″ tires. In addition, they will protect the chassis from mud and debris, which is why they are ideal for bogging.
On the other hand, a 38-inch tire is a wise investment if you often ride all terrain. It can roll over rocks, logs, debris, mud, and other obstacles. The following table shows the common differences between 37″ and 38″ tires.
37 vs 38 inch tires comparison table
| Characteristics | 37″ tires | 38″ tires |
|---|---|---|
| Tire length | 37 inches | 38 inches |
| Width diameter | 11.5″ -14.5″ | 12.5″-15.5″ |
| Structure type | Radial | Radial |
| Rim dimensions | 15″ – 26″ | 15″ – 22″ |
| Tire weight | 68-85 pounds | 81-95 pounds |
| Weight loading capacity | 3500-4000 | 3400-4300 |
| Tire aspect ratio | 12.5-80 | 13.5 |
| Rotation per mile | 560-600 | 540-580 |
| Air pressure | 45-65 psi | 45-65 psi |
| Design | All terrain | All terrain |
| Price range | Under $800 | $400-$1000 |
| Disadvantages | Add extra weight | Reduce fuel efficiency |
Comparative difference between 37 vs 38 inch tires
The dissimilarities between these two tires are pretty comparable to one another. Below I’ll explain some details about the features of 37″ and 38″ tires to consider before your investment.
Tire length
A 37-inch tire features a 37″ length to grab more surface and provide maximum stability. It can efficiently run over various off-road obstacles with ease to save you money and time.
On the contrary, a 38-inch tire comes in 38″ length to offer heavy-duty performance in all terrain surfaces. It is suitable for riding on rocky and muddy roads.
Width Diameter
The width diameter of a 37 ” tire can vary from 11.5″ to 14.5″. That lets it make more extensive ground contact stable to withstand mud, debris, rocks, and other blocks. And it requires 3.5″ for backspacing.
In contrast to a 37″ tire, a 38″ tire’s width diameter can vary from 12.5″ to 15.5″. It also offers maximum ground contact and maximum stability against all off-road obstacles. And it requires additional backspacing than a 37″ tire.
Tread Design
Durable and robust tread patterns enable 37″ tires to offer maximum grips on- and off-road rides. The 38″ tire’s durable tread pattern offers improved traction for its high-quality ground grips.
Rim dimensions
You can use a 37-inch tire with a 15″ – 26″ wide rim. But a 38-inch tire requires a 15″ – 22″ wide rim to work with.
Weight:
These two tires are different from each other based on their weights as well. For example, a 37″ tire comes in 68-85 pounds. On the other hand, a 38″ tire comes in 81- 95 pounds weight.
Load capacity:
A 37-inch tire has a maximum weight loading capacity of 3500 to 4000 lbs. That ensures your car or rig provides enhanced performance.
In comparison, a 38-inch tire features a maximum weight loading capacity from 3400 to 4300 lbs. That makes your vehicle capable of heavy-duty performance.
Rotation per mile:
If we compare the rotation per mile ratio between these two tires, you will see a huge difference. For example, a 37″ tire will rotate from 560 to 600 times per mile. On the contrary, a 38″ tire will rotate from 540 to 580 times per mile.
Price range:
There is a considerable difference in the price range between these two tires. A 37-inch tire can cost you under $800, while a 38-inch tire will cost you from $400 to $1000.
Common Dimensions:
A 37″ tire comes in the following standard dimensions. Such as;
20″ rim= (37″×12.5″R20), (37″×13.5″R20).
18″ rim = (37″×12.5″R18), (37″×13.5″R18).
In comparison, a 38″ tire features the standard dimensions mentioned below.
18″ Rim = (38×15.5R18), (38.5×14.5R18).
20″ Rim – (38″×13.5″R20) , (38″×15. 5″R20) , (38.5″×14.5″R20).
Advantages:
A 37-inch tire provides various advantages for its users.
- Heavy-duty performance
- Durable ground grips
- Ideal for both on-road and off-road rides
In contrast, a 38-inch tire offers the following advantages.
- Strong and durable construction
- Maximum ground grips
- Suitable for all terrains
37 vs. 38 inch tires – Which One Should You Get?
You have gone through the details of all probable dissimilarities between 37-inch and 38-inch tires. Now comes this question: which one is better for you – a 37″ or a 38″ tire? Let me help you make your decision clear and straightforward.
If you want stability and durability in off-road rides against all odds, go for 37″ tires without any doubt. A 37-inch tire features maximum ground contact stable and smooth ride.
On the contrary, if you want to replace your tire with a 38″ just for ½” clearance than a 37″ tire, it will be a fruitless investment. But if you need to ride uphill or to challenge off-road terrain often, 38″ tires will make your ride more stable and comfortable.
Things to consider while choosing a bigger tire 37 or 38 inch
If you are an off-road enthusiast, you may already have made up your mind to upgrade to the bigger tires. At present, the 37 and 38 inch tires are the most popular sizes among off-road riders. However, you should consider the following features while purchasing a new tire.
Tire size is the most important thing you should consider while choosing between 37″, 38″, and 40″ tires. Most off-road drivers trust 37 or 38-inch tires for their off-road vehicles. In addition, these bigger tires offer excellent traction and maximum ground clearance on challenging terrain.
Furthermore, you can use these tires on paved surfaces. Be careful otherwise; paved roads will reduce your tire lifespan. Consider your driveway type while choosing a bigger tire for your Jeep/ truck/ car. It is really important to consider the terrain surfaces.
For example, paved roads require (highway) small tires for a smooth ride. On the contrary, challenging off-road terrain is the perfect fit for bigger tires than regular tires.
Read the ultimate guide to 37 and 38 inch Bigger tires for better understanding. It will enable you to pick the perfect fit tire size for your 4×4 wheelers.
The Ultimate Guide of bigger tires
Most off-road riders are anxious about the functionality while modifying their vehicle. But they are also careful about the gorgeousness during the modification. In addition, everything is about the truck’s appearance and performance.
If you see a 4×4 with big tires, you automatically imagine how it rolls over ruts, rocks, mud, sand, and other obstacles. Here is a saying ” if you are doing it right, your tires are the bridge between you and the ground.” Big tires not only beautify your vehicle but also enhance its performance.
The bigger the tire size, the better for all-terrain surfaces to grab powerful traction. However, the maximum stopping capacity is the primary key aspect that we are after. The bigger tire size is one of the most useful ways to upgrade your vehicle’s appearance and performance.
First, let me explain the minimum ground clearance for your better understanding. For example, suppose you have a minimum ground clearance between the ground and the differentials.
But you have lifted the body frame of your vehicle from 10-12 inches with a lift. Furthermore, it will surely get stuck on the road no matter how much you lift the body frame.
You have got two options to overcome this situation. One is installing bigger tires, and another is installing portal gears or running exotic planetary on every wheel. However, bigger tires are the easiest solution because another one requires redesigning your steering linkage.
The primary differences between 37″ and 38″ tires are their length and width. In addition, they are also different based on their ground clearance capacity, contact patch, and price as well. So, choose the tire size according to your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How high of a lift do you need for 37-inch tires?
You will need a 3.5″ or more lift kit to run 37″ tires. It will provide maximum control arms for the top & bottom. It is designed for both front and rear to offer maximum stability and grips for challenging off-road rides. A 2.5″ lift can’t help you fit your 37-inch tire.
Do wider tires use more gas?
Yes, wider tires mean larger tires and, of course, add more weight than regular tires. As a result, larger tires use more gas to operate properly than smaller tires. Moreover, their comparatively heavy weight reduces fuel efficiency (MPG) more than the lighter tires.
What size are 37-inch tires in centimeters?
The 37-inch tires come in a size range from 92.71 to 95 centimeters in overall diameter. It varies because of their manufacturing brands. Different brands use different diameters as a standard/ true size. That’s why you may need to buy a 38″ tire to get the true 37″ tire.
What is the biggest size tire you can fit with no lift?
Older version cars/jeeps came with the facility for upgrading your tire size as you need. You can do so by just trimming some metal sheets. But the advanced vehicles feature closed things up for a trouble-free ride.
They have a recommended maximum tire size to replace without any lift. For example, you can fit up to 33″ tires without lifting your vehicle. You must have a lifting kit if you want to install a bigger size tire.
What damage can bigger tires cause?
Bigger tires are a great option for challenging off-road obstacles. But having a bigger tire size can cause the following damage to your car/jeep/truck.
1. Bigger tires decrease fuel efficiency (MPG) than smaller tires.
2. They increase your vehicle’s overall weight.
3. They need extra backspacing than the smaller tires.
Conclusion
We hope our guide on “37 vs 38 inch tires” answers the questions you faced before. Both of them offer heavy-duty and optimal performance based on their characteristics. However, choosing a tire size between these two will depend on your need and preference.
Both of them offer excellent ground contact for their users. So, it can be a smart investment if you pick the right tire size according to your requirements.
