Tire size comparison
205/55R16 vs 195/60R16
195/60R16 is +1.3% taller than 205/55R16: 25.2 in vs 24.9 in (+0.33 in), and 0.4 in narrower. With 195/60R16 on a vehicle set up for 205/55R16, the speedometer shows 60 mph at an actual 60.8 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 (195/60R16 instead of 205/55R16) · 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
205/55R16 vs 195/60R16: full comparison
| 205/55R16 | 195/60R16 | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall diameter | 24.88 in | 25.21 in | +0.33 in (+1.3%) |
| Width | 8.07 in | 7.68 in | −0.39 in (−4.9%) |
| Sidewall height | 4.44 in | 4.61 in | +0.17 in |
| Circumference | 78.2 in | 79.2 in | +1.1 in |
| Revs per mile (nominal) | 811 | 800 | −11 |
| Wheel diameter | 16 in | 16 in | ±0 in |
| Diameter in mm | 632 | 640 | +8 mm |
Speedometer difference
Your speedometer is calibrated for 205/55R16. Fitted with 195/60R16, the actual speed is the reading × 25.21 ÷ 24.88.
| Speedometer shows | Actual speed | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 20 mph | 20.3 mph | +0.3 mph |
| 30 mph | 30.4 mph | +0.4 mph |
| 45 mph | 45.6 mph | +0.6 mph |
| 55 mph | 55.7 mph | +0.7 mph |
| 60 mph | 60.8 mph | +0.8 mph |
| 70 mph | 70.9 mph | +0.9 mph |
| 80 mph | 81.1 mph | +1.1 mph |
Real tires: published diameters
205/55R16: 24.7–25.2 in published by 5 makers; 195/60R16: 25.2 in published by 1 maker. Calculated figures assume a nominal tire; the exact difference between two specific tires depends on their models.
More about each size: 205/55R16 · 195/60R16
Related comparisons
FAQ
Which is bigger, 205/55R16 or 195/60R16?
195/60R16 is +1.3% taller than 205/55R16: 25.2 in vs 24.9 in (+0.33 in).
How much will my speedometer be off with 195/60R16 instead of 205/55R16?
The speedometer is calibrated for 205/55R16. With 195/60R16 it shows 60 mph when you are doing 60.8 mph, and 70 mph at 70.9 mph (+1.3%). Your speedometer also has its own factory tolerance.
Can I replace 205/55R16 with 195/60R16?
The diameter difference is +1.3%. 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.