Tire size comparison
205/55R16 vs 215/60R16
215/60R16 is +5.1% taller than 205/55R16: 26.2 in vs 24.9 in (+1.28 in), and 0.4 in wider. With 215/60R16 on a vehicle set up for 205/55R16, the speedometer shows 60 mph at an actual 63.1 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 (215/60R16 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 215/60R16: full comparison
| 205/55R16 | 215/60R16 | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall diameter | 24.88 in | 26.16 in | +1.28 in (+5.1%) |
| Width | 8.07 in | 8.46 in | +0.39 in (+4.9%) |
| Sidewall height | 4.44 in | 5.08 in | +0.64 in |
| Circumference | 78.2 in | 82.2 in | +4.0 in |
| Revs per mile (nominal) | 811 | 771 | −40 |
| Wheel diameter | 16 in | 16 in | ±0 in |
| Diameter in mm | 632 | 664 | +32 mm |
Speedometer difference
Your speedometer is calibrated for 205/55R16. Fitted with 215/60R16, the actual speed is the reading × 26.16 ÷ 24.88.
| 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 | 63.1 mph | +3.1 mph |
| 70 mph | 73.6 mph | +3.6 mph |
| 80 mph | 84.1 mph | +4.1 mph |
Real tires: published diameters
205/55R16: 24.7–25.2 in published by 5 makers; 215/60R16: 25.9–26.5 in published by 6 makers. Calculated figures assume a nominal tire; the exact difference between two specific tires depends on their models.
More about each size: 205/55R16 · 215/60R16
Related comparisons
FAQ
Which is bigger, 205/55R16 or 215/60R16?
215/60R16 is +5.1% taller than 205/55R16: 26.2 in vs 24.9 in (+1.28 in).
How much will my speedometer be off with 215/60R16 instead of 205/55R16?
The speedometer is calibrated for 205/55R16. With 215/60R16 it shows 60 mph when you are doing 63.1 mph, and 70 mph at 73.6 mph (+5.1%). Your speedometer also has its own factory tolerance.
Can I replace 205/55R16 with 215/60R16?
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.