The main difference between 33 and 35-inch tires is their size. 35-inch tires are larger and will provide more ground clearance and off-road capability, but may also decrease fuel efficiency and acceleration. 33-inch tires are a good compromise between off-road ability and on-road performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences. In this post, I will detail a comparison of these two tire sizes.
33 Vs 35” Tires Side by Side Comparison Table
We have compiled a side-by-side comparison table showing the differences based on the major properties of 33 and 35-inch tires. Check the table for a quick overview:
| Attribute | 35-Inch Tires | 33-Inch Tires | Opinion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter | 35″ (889 mm) | 32.8″ (883 mm) | 35” tires are 6.7% taller |
| Sidewall | 9.5″ (241 mm) | 8.4″ (213 mm) | 35” tires have 13.1% of bigger sidewall |
| Width | 10.5″ (267 mm) | 11.2″ (285 mm) | 33” tires are 6.2% wider |
| Revs/Mile | 577 (359 mm) | 615 (382 mm) | Higher revs for 33’ tires |
| Circumference | 109.9″ (2791 mm) | 103.1″ (2619 mm) | 35” tires have 6.7% greater circumference |
| Weight | 65 Pounds | 51 Pounds | 35” tires are heavier |
| Ground Clearance(for a particular car model) | 12.5 Inches | 11 Inches | 35” tires provide more ground clearance |
| Off-road performance | Better | Moderate | 35-inch tires are better performer |
| On-road performance | Good | Best | 33-inch tires are more suitable for on-road performance |
33 Vs 35 Tires – 6 Factors To Compare
Before beginning to select options for your automobile, it’s crucial to have a strong comprehension of some important aspects such as ground clearance, fuel economy, and performance, which are deeply important to you.
If you know what’s your primary priority among the advantages of 33″ or 35″ tires, the character of each variant will simplify your evaluation and relieve the pressure of the tire selection process. So, here we’re going to compare some of those key attributes of 33″ and 35″ tires accordingly. Let’s move ahead:
Traction
For any kind of tire, traction is a key factor to take into consideration, especially when it comes to dealing with tough terrain. By providing the necessary grip, traction helps your vehicle carry through challenging surfaces like mud, sand, and rock.
The tire tread’s effectiveness may vary depending on the dimensions. Treads may have been created with special properties in mind, but more significant tires will likely improve the tread’s functionality.
The border of the tire tread will be a little longer and widen more on large tires. This ensures there is more empty space between the elements throughout the tread pattern, which is critical for your car to successfully navigate the toughest terrain.
Since a larger area of rubber comes into contact with the ground, a larger-sized tire will provide enhanced traction. Therefore, if you seek a size that offers maximum traction, opt for a 35″ tire.
Ground Clearance
Ground clearance is an essential element in the course of off-road adventures. At present, there are a number of solutions to raise your vehicle and make it safer off-road, such as lift kits that you can install. No matter what size tires you select, these solutions might be a good investment.
However, if you’re thinking to save some extra bucks, choosing the bigger tire will be a wise decision. This is because every two inches of increment in the tire size will add an extra inch of clearance to your vehicle.
Even though it could seem like a small offering, it’s certainly going to enhance your vehicle’s off-road performance.
In order to take on dirtier trails or to bring along your car for its off-road performances, 35-inch tires will provide superior performance in most off-road scenarios.
Nevertheless, 33-inch tires will still be just as capable in 99 % of all circumstances and are still an awesome option for your four-wheel drive.
Fuel Efficiency
When choosing new tires, you should not be amazed to learn your vehicle’s engine has less to reach for the highest fuel efficiency when the tires have a short tread.
When you’re thinking about impacting your money wisely, fuel efficiency is the key consideration.
As your vehicle requires more torque to deal with a lack of traction, more weight, or challenging terrain, its fuel consumption will be increased significantly due to additional torque being transmitted to the wheels.
Consequently, this will translate into a higher expense for the whole amount of fuel that you’re paying for the additional power directed into the wheels.
Smaller tires have lower tread constituents since they comprise a smaller portion of rubber as a result of the denser construction of the wheel trend.
This equates to finding that 33 inches are a cost-effective alternative to larger tires that are not necessarily more economical in fuel consumption.
Re-gearing
The process of changing your ring and pinion gears to a different ratio is known as re-gearing to regenerate torque or balance your vehicle.
When you alter the tire size, it generates stress on your axle that you can avoid by re-gearing. Re-gearing helps to spare your vehicle unnecessary stress on its axle.
You will need to re-gear more according to your tire size as it’s larger. That being the case, it is important to recognize that if you have 35-inch tires, re-gearing is necessary.
A 33-inch tire doesn’t require re-gearing due to its size, but an increase in tire size will change its roll resistance, rotation, and overall diameter.
Stability and Control
When it comes to choosing tires for your car, size definitely matters. The size of the tire affects not only how well it handles on the road but also how stable and controllable your car will be.
That’s because most cars come with a standard set of tires that are 33 inches in diameter. But if you want more stability and control while driving, you may want to consider opting for a 35-inch tire.
A 35-inch tire will provide greater traction on wet roads and in icy conditions than a 33-inch tire will. Plus, a 35-inch tire will help to improve the car’s handling when cornering or accelerating.
So whether you’re looking for better performance or increased safety, a larger tire may be the answer you’re looking for.
Overall Performance
Whether you’re hoping to boost your speed, power, or performance, wheels can have a big influence on what you get.
The power and momentum of your car may additionally affect what tracks you’ll be able to and can’t drive. Individuals looking for better traveling power will find better performance with 33-inch tires.
Additionally, it takes less energy to rotate them, and the power that’s used offers excellent mileage, so you can move your vehicle more quickly and comfortably than you can with 35-inch tires.
33-inch tires are also better when it comes to driver’s responsiveness, as their power applies directly in the way the vehicle reacts to the driver’s directions.
33” Vs 35” Tires – Performance Comparison on Different Terrains
Wheel selection could be affected by the terrain in which you typically drive, in addition to your wheel size. It’s not easy to choose the right treads for many distinct sorts of terrain, but the wheel sizes you choose could be enormously important for the off-road capabilities of your vehicle.
Here, we have put together a list of different terrains you may encounter, including the most popular ones, and the conditions that four-wheel drivers testing different types of tires have run into. As well as what tire has been best able to overcome these conditions.
- Rock Steps
You’ll probably appreciate the best ground clearance of the 35-inch wheelset in the context of this terrain. The extra space between you and the elevated bedrock is very helpful for rock steps, and you can ensure it more perfectly with 35-inch tires.
- Sand
While either 33 or 35-inch tires will work for you, if you’re going to drive in sand, having a 33-inch tire can be preferable. This tire gives you the necessary power throughout the ride, and the smoother ride it produces ensures that you derive maximum enjoyment from your drive.
- Mud
Mud is among the most typical and troublesome terrains. 33-inch tires perform best in muddy soil, as you can gain access to them by entering more quickly and with less difficulty. However, 35-inch tires allow you to gain even better traction and have a better footing to prevent slipping out of puddles.
- Ruts
Adequate clearance is essential when driving over ruts to ensure optimal handling. While a 33-inch tire offers a decent amount of clearance for most ruts, the 35-inch wheels are preferable for improved functionality by significantly minimizing scraping and attaining a smoother ride.
Pros and Cons of 33” Tires
Here are some of the major advantages of 33” tires along with their potential drawbacks:
Pros
Cons
- Less maintenance cost
- Excellent on-road performance
- Often less expensive than larger counterparts
- Can provide better fuel economy.
- They can also be used on a wide variety of vehicles.
- Not be suitable for some cars with low ground clearance or those that are heavy or loaded down.
- Increased wind noise and reduced grip on icy or snowy roads.
Pros and Cons of 35” Tires
Let’s have a look at both pros and cons of 35” tires as well:
Pros
Cons
- Provides more stability on slippery roads or in snow or ice
- Improved aesthetics
- Superior traction
- Enhanced off-road performance
- Increased level of ground clearance
- Less fuel-efficient
- More expensive
33 Vs 35 Tires – Which One Is Right For you?
Above all any controversy or debate, choosing one among 33” or 35” tires is a matter of your needs and preferences. We’re just trying to make your evaluation easier with all the necessary information.
So, a 33-inch tire is suitable for you when-
- You’re more likely to drive your car on highways rather than off-road
- Fuel economy is your major concern
- You want to avoid the re-gearing cost
- The performance of your vehicle matters to you most
- You’re looking for a less expensive option,
On the other hand, a 35-inch tire will be a good option for you, when-
- You’re an off-road driver
- You need enhanced grip and traction
- Stability and control is the prime factor to you
- You want to conquer high rocky terrains
- You’re seeking greater aesthetics
Frequently Asked Questions
Do 35 tires affect gas mileage?
You can expect a difference in gas mileage of up to 1 and 2 miles per gallon when upgrading from 33 to 35 tires. The larger diameter, width, and circumference involved will add to the unsprung weight, which significantly affects the fuel efficiency, performance, gearing, and other automotive parts.
Are Bigger tires slower?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a variety of factors, including the terrain you are traveling on and your own personal riding style. Some riders believe that wider tires can actually make you slower due to the increased weight and drag they create. Ultimately, it is up to the rider to decide whether they want to run wider tires in order to improve their speed.
Is 2 inch lift enough for 35-inch tires?
A 2″ lift is typically enough for 35-inch tires. However, if you have larger tires or want to go higher, a 3″ or even 4″ lift may be necessary.
Are 35s better than 33s?
Some drivers may prefer a larger tire to improve traction and braking performance in certain conditions, while others may prefer a smaller tire to save weight and improve fuel economy.
Related Tires Content:
AR Jeet has been a tire mechanic for over 2years. He has worked on all types of vehicles, from cars and trucks to RVs and ATVs and motorcycles. He has seen it all when it comes to tires, and he knows how to fix them.
AR Jeet is a tire expert, and he is passionate about his work. He loves to help people keep their vehicles running smoothly, and he is always happy to answer any questions that people have about their tires.
If you need help with your tires, or if you just want to learn more about them, then AR Jeet is the man to talk to. He will be happy to help you out, and he will make sure that you get the best possible solution.
He has a blog [Tirespick.com] where he writes about all things tire-related, and he is always happy to help people with their tire needs. Know more about AR Jeet.