Tire size comparison
215/65R15 vs 205/70R15
205/70R15 is +1.1% taller than 215/65R15: 26.3 in vs 26.0 in (+0.30 in), and 0.4 in narrower. With 205/70R15 on a vehicle set up for 215/65R15, the speedometer shows 60 mph at an actual 60.7 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 (205/70R15 instead of 215/65R15) · 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
215/65R15 vs 205/70R15: full comparison
| 215/65R15 | 205/70R15 | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall diameter | 26.00 in | 26.30 in | +0.30 in (+1.1%) |
| Width | 8.46 in | 8.07 in | −0.39 in (−4.7%) |
| Sidewall height | 5.50 in | 5.65 in | +0.15 in |
| Circumference | 81.7 in | 82.6 in | +0.9 in |
| Revs per mile (nominal) | 776 | 767 | −9 |
| Wheel diameter | 15 in | 15 in | ±0 in |
| Diameter in mm | 660 | 668 | +8 mm |
Speedometer difference
Your speedometer is calibrated for 215/65R15. Fitted with 205/70R15, the actual speed is the reading × 26.30 ÷ 26.00.
| Speedometer shows | Actual speed | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 20 mph | 20.2 mph | +0.2 mph |
| 30 mph | 30.3 mph | +0.3 mph |
| 45 mph | 45.5 mph | +0.5 mph |
| 55 mph | 55.6 mph | +0.6 mph |
| 60 mph | 60.7 mph | +0.7 mph |
| 70 mph | 70.8 mph | +0.8 mph |
| 80 mph | 80.9 mph | +0.9 mph |
Real tires: published diameters
215/65R15: 25.9–26.1 in published by 3 makers; 205/70R15: 26.2–26.4 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: 215/65R15 · 205/70R15
Related comparisons
FAQ
Which is bigger, 215/65R15 or 205/70R15?
205/70R15 is +1.1% taller than 215/65R15: 26.3 in vs 26.0 in (+0.30 in).
How much will my speedometer be off with 205/70R15 instead of 215/65R15?
The speedometer is calibrated for 215/65R15. With 205/70R15 it shows 60 mph when you are doing 60.7 mph, and 70 mph at 70.8 mph (+1.1%). Your speedometer also has its own factory tolerance.
Can I replace 215/65R15 with 205/70R15?
The diameter difference is +1.1%. 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.