Tire size comparison
205/70R15 vs 195/65R15
195/65R15 is −5.0% shorter than 205/70R15: 25.0 in vs 26.3 in (−1.32 in), and 0.4 in narrower. With 195/65R15 on a vehicle set up for 205/70R15, the speedometer shows 60 mph at an actual 57.0 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 smaller (195/65R15 instead of 205/70R15) · 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
205/70R15 vs 195/65R15: full comparison
| 205/70R15 | 195/65R15 | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall diameter | 26.30 in | 24.98 in | −1.32 in (−5.0%) |
| Width | 8.07 in | 7.68 in | −0.39 in (−4.9%) |
| Sidewall height | 5.65 in | 4.99 in | −0.66 in |
| Circumference | 82.6 in | 78.5 in | −4.1 in |
| Revs per mile (nominal) | 767 | 807 | +40 |
| Wheel diameter | 15 in | 15 in | ±0 in |
| Diameter in mm | 668 | 634 | −34 mm |
Speedometer difference
Your speedometer is calibrated for 205/70R15. Fitted with 195/65R15, the actual speed is the reading × 24.98 ÷ 26.30.
| Speedometer shows | Actual speed | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 20 mph | 19.0 mph | −1.0 mph |
| 30 mph | 28.5 mph | −1.5 mph |
| 45 mph | 42.7 mph | −2.3 mph |
| 55 mph | 52.2 mph | −2.8 mph |
| 60 mph | 57.0 mph | −3.0 mph |
| 70 mph | 66.5 mph | −3.5 mph |
| 80 mph | 76.0 mph | −4.0 mph |
Real tires: published diameters
205/70R15: 26.2–26.4 in published by 4 makers; 195/65R15: 24.7–25.3 in published by 4 makers. Calculated figures assume a nominal tire; the exact difference between two specific tires depends on their models.
More about each size: 205/70R15 · 195/65R15
Related comparisons
FAQ
Which is bigger, 205/70R15 or 195/65R15?
195/65R15 is −5.0% shorter than 205/70R15: 25.0 in vs 26.3 in (−1.32 in).
How much will my speedometer be off with 195/65R15 instead of 205/70R15?
The speedometer is calibrated for 205/70R15. With 195/65R15 it shows 60 mph when you are doing 57.0 mph, and 70 mph at 66.5 mph (−5.0%). Your speedometer also has its own factory tolerance.
Can I replace 205/70R15 with 195/65R15?
The diameter difference is −5.0%. 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.