Tire size comparison
185/60R15 vs 195/55R15
195/55R15 is −1.2% shorter than 185/60R15: 23.4 in vs 23.7 in (−0.30 in), and 0.4 in wider. With 195/55R15 on a vehicle set up for 185/60R15, the speedometer shows 60 mph at an actual 59.3 mph. That is within the ±3% difference many shops use as a rule of thumb (not a manufacturer or legal limit).
Set up for: checking a replacement size (195/55R15 instead of 185/60R15) · Different situation?
Your current size
e.g. 265/70R17, 2657017 or 33x12.50R20
Where do I find my size?
It's on the tire sidewall, e.g. P265/70R17 115T, and on the tire placard sticker on the driver's door jamb (also in the owner's manual). The placard shows the size the vehicle came with; the sidewall shows what is fitted now. If they differ, use the placard as your starting point. Digits are enough here: 2657017 or 33125020.
Size you're considering
185/60R15 vs 195/55R15: full comparison
| 185/60R15 | 195/55R15 | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall diameter | 23.74 in | 23.44 in | −0.30 in (−1.2%) |
| Width | 7.28 in | 7.68 in | +0.39 in (+5.4%) |
| Sidewall height | 4.37 in | 4.22 in | −0.15 in |
| Circumference | 74.6 in | 73.7 in | −0.9 in |
| Revs per mile (nominal) | 850 | 860 | +11 |
| Wheel diameter | 15 in | 15 in | ±0 in |
| Diameter in mm | 603 | 595 | −8 mm |
Speedometer difference
Your speedometer is calibrated for 185/60R15. Fitted with 195/55R15, the actual speed is the reading × 23.44 ÷ 23.74.
| Speedometer shows | Actual speed | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 20 mph | 19.8 mph | −0.2 mph |
| 30 mph | 29.6 mph | −0.4 mph |
| 45 mph | 44.4 mph | −0.6 mph |
| 55 mph | 54.3 mph | −0.7 mph |
| 60 mph | 59.3 mph | −0.7 mph |
| 70 mph | 69.1 mph | −0.9 mph |
| 80 mph | 79.0 mph | −1.0 mph |
Real tires: published diameters
185/60R15: 23.6–23.9 in published by 4 makers; 195/55R15: 23.3–23.5 in published by 3 makers. Calculated figures assume a nominal tire; the exact difference between two specific tires depends on their models.
More about each size: 185/60R15 · 195/55R15
Related comparisons
FAQ
Which is bigger, 185/60R15 or 195/55R15?
195/55R15 is −1.2% shorter than 185/60R15: 23.4 in vs 23.7 in (−0.30 in).
How much will my speedometer be off with 195/55R15 instead of 185/60R15?
The speedometer is calibrated for 185/60R15. With 195/55R15 it shows 60 mph when you are doing 59.3 mph, and 70 mph at 69.1 mph (−1.2%). Your speedometer also has its own factory tolerance.
Can I replace 185/60R15 with 195/55R15?
The diameter difference is −1.2%. Whether it fits depends on things this calculation can't see: wheel width and offset, clearance at full lock and over bumps, load index and speed rating, and your vehicle maker's approval. Check your door-jamb placard and owner's manual and ask a tire professional.