Are 300-12 and 16X30 the Same?
2 Answers
300-12 and 16X30 are different and not interchangeable. Below is an introduction to tire models and their functions: Meaning of tire model numbers: Most car tire models are marked in a format like 215/70R15. The numbers represent the following: 215 indicates the tire section width in millimeters, typically ranging from 145 to 285mm in increments of 10mm; 70 is the aspect ratio, representing the percentage ratio of the tire sidewall height to the tire section width, with 70 meaning 70%. Functions of tires: To transmit traction and braking torque, ensuring good adhesion between the wheels and the road surface, thereby improving the vehicle's power, braking, and passability; to work with the vehicle suspension to cushion impacts during driving and dampen resulting vibrations. They prevent severe vibrations and premature damage to vehicle components, adapt to high-speed performance while reducing driving noise, and ensure safety, handling stability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
I've been driving for almost twenty years and have seen many such tire size confusion issues. 300-12 roughly means a tire width of 3.00 inches paired with a 12-inch rim diameter, which is common on small motorcycles or micro vehicles. 16X30 seems like a typo, probably referring to a 16-inch rim diameter with a 3.0-inch width tire. They are different, mainly in rim size—the 16-inch is noticeably larger. Different wheel diameters directly affect the wheel circumference, causing significant speedometer deviations and risky speed perception errors while driving. Don't swap them casually to save money or for convenience. Always check the vehicle's original manual or consult a proper repair shop with photos first—safety comes first.