Car tires are graded according to their attributes, composition, and manufacturer. This grading is necessary for the smooth operation of every vehicle by dividing it into different parts and components that perform various functions.
Several components ensure that the equipment runs at its best without the need for any sudden repairs. These tires conform to the specifications of the vehicles that they are suitable for, but each has its own individual characteristics.
255 Tires: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Extremely durable
- The radial construction helps enhance flexibility and grip
- Lightweight and comfortable
- A little faster, due to the lower rolling resistance
- Strong tread pattern for increased traction
Cons
- A little pricey
235 Tires: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Good durability and quality
- Can be used on any terrain
- Flexible
- Smooth ride
Cons
- The narrow width leads to higher rolling resistance that results in a slower ride
255 vs 235 Tires: How Do They Differ?
1. Car loads
255 tires
Ranging between 110-120 pounds, they are able to accommodate a greater weight than 235 tires.
235 tires
Carry a significant amount of weight, between 100 and 110 pounds.
Winner
The 255 tires are able to handle a heavier load than the 235
2. Hydroplaning
255 tires
With a larger surface area, they are less likely to aquaplane.
235 tires
There is not as much tendency to hydroplane due to the smaller width size.
Winner
Wider tires may increase aquaplaning tendencies.
3. Handling
255 tires
Typically, tires should be both wide and high with complex tread patterns to respond instantly to a driver’s input. The handling is enhanced by the 255.
235 tires
The 235 offers nothing good in the way of handling.
Winner
Certainly, in the case of handling, go with the 255 tires that are better for handling both off and on-road situations.
4. Height
- 255 tires: 30.1 inches
- 235 tires: 29 inches
Winner
- There is a +1.1 inch difference with the 255 tires running larger in height.
5. Rolling resistance
255 tires
255 has the most rolling resistance on the road.
235 tires
The 235 tires have the lower rolling resistance.
Winner
No doubt 235 tires will save you more fuel.
6. Bouncing over bumps
255 tires
They givea sensation of bouncing over bumps.
235 tires
Their size doesn’t seem to give the sensation of bouncing much at all.
Winner
The 255 tires make you feel like you are driving over big bouncy balls. The smaller tires avoid this issue.
7. Braking distance
255 tires
The 255 tires have a long braking distance but not as much as the 235 as they are wider.
235 tires
235 has the longest braking distance due to the smaller width size.
Winner
- The 235 has the longest distance braking due to the smaller width size on the road.
8. Highway traction
255 tires
They have good traction for fast driving and are suitable for hilly terrain. The tires have good stopping power on the highway.
235 tires
They are excellent for highway use. Accordingly, the tire should perform well on any surface, including wet, dry, icy, and snowy surfaces.
Winner
Both are great for highway traction.
9. Driving in the snow
255 tires
A wider tire can cause the car to stick to the snow and not plow it through.
235 tires
For snow driving, the thinner the tire, the better.
Winner
Tires have a thinner profile and are better at cutting through snow and gaining traction.
10. Mileage
255 tires
The 255 tires will always result in lower gas mileage.
235 tires
A set of 235 tires would offer slightly better mileage. Lighter tires equal less rolling resistance.
Winner
There is only a slight difference here, so either one will be ok. The difference isn’t much to worry about.
11. Tire weight
255 tires
The 255 tires have a weight of 30 to 150 pounds. This is determined by the manufacturer.
235 tires
The 235 tires have a slightly lower range between 20 to 100 pounds.
Winner
The 255 tires are heavier, but it will depend on what you are using the tires for whether it will be a problem.
12. Look
255 tires
255 tires look better. I have gray fan blades with factory polished finished inlay. The 255 has a slightly meaner appearance and brings the tread face up to the wheel face
235 tires
The thinner tires don’t look as good as the thicker ones.
Winner
For looks, the 255 tires are the more attractive looking type out of both.
13. Cost
255 tires
These are generally your dearer option. The reason is that a bigger tire requires more resources. Prices can be found from $170 for basic and more for better quality.
235 tires
Prices start from $120 for budget and higher for better quality.
Winner
If you want something budget-friendly, go with the 235 tires; otherwise, the 255 tires are the more expensive option.
When should you use 255 tires?
The 255 tires are good for highway driving and all terrains. It is a tire that can work with most surfaces, including wet and dry. This type of tire is a good-looking tire that many choices when they are modifying their car. If you’re happy spending a little more on the tire, then this tire will work fine. Not too great for driving in the snow.
When should you use 235 tires?
The 235 tires are a good tire and budget-friendly. They work well in snow conditions. Plenty of highway traction, but not suitable for bumpy roads. Due to the rolling resistance, the 235 is better for fuel mileage, saving you money,
Is it a good idea to run a 235 front/255 rear combination?
The answer will depend on your tire and wheel offset. The scrub radius of the suspension will be impacted if you are too aggressive, and it will handle worse as a result. The width of the tire has more of an influence on the turn radius, and the turn radius diminishes with tire width.
You should be aware that factory tires are matched with suspensions and designed with mild understeer for neutral handling. If you want the car to handle better, you can go a few sizes wider upfront.
FAQs
1. Can wrong size tires damage the transmission?
Ans. Transmissions are not damaged by incorrectly sized tires. However, tires that are the wrong size can be dangerous and damage your vehicle structurally.
2. Which tire should I use for longer highway routes?
Ans. 255 tires are preferable for long highway routes as they are faster than 235 tires.
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