Tire size comparison
205/50R17 vs 215/45R17
215/45R17 is −1.8% shorter than 205/50R17: 24.6 in vs 25.1 in (−0.45 in), and 0.4 in wider. With 215/45R17 on a vehicle set up for 205/50R17, the speedometer shows 60 mph at an actual 58.9 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 (215/45R17 instead of 205/50R17) · 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
205/50R17 vs 215/45R17: full comparison
| 205/50R17 | 215/45R17 | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall diameter | 25.07 in | 24.62 in | −0.45 in (−1.8%) |
| Width | 8.07 in | 8.46 in | +0.39 in (+4.9%) |
| Sidewall height | 4.04 in | 3.81 in | −0.23 in |
| Circumference | 78.8 in | 77.3 in | −1.4 in |
| Revs per mile (nominal) | 804 | 819 | +15 |
| Wheel diameter | 17 in | 17 in | ±0 in |
| Diameter in mm | 637 | 625 | −12 mm |
Speedometer difference
Your speedometer is calibrated for 205/50R17. Fitted with 215/45R17, the actual speed is the reading × 24.62 ÷ 25.07.
| Speedometer shows | Actual speed | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 20 mph | 19.6 mph | −0.4 mph |
| 30 mph | 29.5 mph | −0.5 mph |
| 45 mph | 44.2 mph | −0.8 mph |
| 55 mph | 54.0 mph | −1.0 mph |
| 60 mph | 58.9 mph | −1.1 mph |
| 70 mph | 68.7 mph | −1.3 mph |
| 80 mph | 78.6 mph | −1.4 mph |
Real tires: published diameters
205/50R17: 24.9–25.4 in published by 6 makers; 215/45R17: 24.4–24.9 in published by 7 makers. Calculated figures assume a nominal tire; the exact difference between two specific tires depends on their models.
More about each size: 205/50R17 · 215/45R17
Related comparisons
FAQ
Which is bigger, 205/50R17 or 215/45R17?
215/45R17 is −1.8% shorter than 205/50R17: 24.6 in vs 25.1 in (−0.45 in).
How much will my speedometer be off with 215/45R17 instead of 205/50R17?
The speedometer is calibrated for 205/50R17. With 215/45R17 it shows 60 mph when you are doing 58.9 mph, and 70 mph at 68.7 mph (−1.8%). Your speedometer also has its own factory tolerance.
Can I replace 205/50R17 with 215/45R17?
The diameter difference is −1.8%. 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.