Tire size comparison
195/50R16 vs 205/55R16
205/55R16 is +5.1% taller than 195/50R16: 24.9 in vs 23.7 in (+1.20 in), and 0.4 in wider. With 205/55R16 on a vehicle set up for 195/50R16, the speedometer shows 60 mph at an actual 63.0 mph. That is more than the ±3% difference many shops use as a rule of thumb, so check carefully before switching.
Set up for: going bigger (205/55R16 instead of 195/50R16) · 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
195/50R16 vs 205/55R16: full comparison
| 195/50R16 | 205/55R16 | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall diameter | 23.68 in | 24.88 in | +1.20 in (+5.1%) |
| Width | 7.68 in | 8.07 in | +0.39 in (+5.1%) |
| Sidewall height | 3.84 in | 4.44 in | +0.60 in |
| Circumference | 74.4 in | 78.2 in | +3.8 in |
| Revs per mile (nominal) | 852 | 811 | −41 |
| Wheel diameter | 16 in | 16 in | ±0 in |
| Diameter in mm | 601 | 632 | +30 mm |
Speedometer difference
Your speedometer is calibrated for 195/50R16. Fitted with 205/55R16, the actual speed is the reading × 24.88 ÷ 23.68.
| Speedometer shows | Actual speed | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 20 mph | 21.0 mph | +1.0 mph |
| 30 mph | 31.5 mph | +1.5 mph |
| 45 mph | 47.3 mph | +2.3 mph |
| 55 mph | 57.8 mph | +2.8 mph |
| 60 mph | 63.0 mph | +3.0 mph |
| 70 mph | 73.6 mph | +3.6 mph |
| 80 mph | 84.1 mph | +4.1 mph |
Real tires: published diameters
195/50R16: 23.7 in published by 3 makers; 205/55R16: 24.7–25.2 in published by 5 makers. Calculated figures assume a nominal tire; the exact difference between two specific tires depends on their models.
More about each size: 195/50R16 · 205/55R16
Related comparisons
FAQ
Which is bigger, 195/50R16 or 205/55R16?
205/55R16 is +5.1% taller than 195/50R16: 24.9 in vs 23.7 in (+1.20 in).
How much will my speedometer be off with 205/55R16 instead of 195/50R16?
The speedometer is calibrated for 195/50R16. With 205/55R16 it shows 60 mph when you are doing 63.0 mph, and 70 mph at 73.6 mph (+5.1%). Your speedometer also has its own factory tolerance.
Can I replace 195/50R16 with 205/55R16?
The diameter difference is +5.1%. 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.