Tire size comparison
215/75R14 vs 205/75R15
205/75R15 is +1.5% taller than 215/75R14: 27.1 in vs 26.7 in (+0.41 in), and 0.4 in narrower. With 205/75R15 on a vehicle set up for 215/75R14, the speedometer shows 60 mph at an actual 60.9 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 (205/75R15 instead of 215/75R14) · 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
215/75R14 vs 205/75R15: full comparison
| 215/75R14 | 205/75R15 | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall diameter | 26.70 in | 27.11 in | +0.41 in (+1.5%) |
| Width | 8.46 in | 8.07 in | −0.39 in (−4.7%) |
| Sidewall height | 6.35 in | 6.05 in | −0.30 in |
| Circumference | 83.9 in | 85.2 in | +1.3 in |
| Revs per mile (nominal) | 755 | 744 | −11 |
| Wheel diameter | 14 in | 15 in | +1 in |
| Diameter in mm | 678 | 688 | +10 mm |
Speedometer difference
Your speedometer is calibrated for 215/75R14. Fitted with 205/75R15, the actual speed is the reading × 27.11 ÷ 26.70.
| Speedometer shows | Actual speed | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 20 mph | 20.3 mph | +0.3 mph |
| 30 mph | 30.5 mph | +0.5 mph |
| 45 mph | 45.7 mph | +0.7 mph |
| 55 mph | 55.8 mph | +0.8 mph |
| 60 mph | 60.9 mph | +0.9 mph |
| 70 mph | 71.1 mph | +1.1 mph |
| 80 mph | 81.2 mph | +1.2 mph |
Real tires: published diameters
215/75R14: 26.6 in published by 1 maker; 205/75R15: 27–27.1 in published by 2 makers. Calculated figures assume a nominal tire; the exact difference between two specific tires depends on their models.
More about each size: 215/75R14 · 205/75R15
Related comparisons
FAQ
Which is bigger, 215/75R14 or 205/75R15?
205/75R15 is +1.5% taller than 215/75R14: 27.1 in vs 26.7 in (+0.41 in).
How much will my speedometer be off with 205/75R15 instead of 215/75R14?
The speedometer is calibrated for 215/75R14. With 205/75R15 it shows 60 mph when you are doing 60.9 mph, and 70 mph at 71.1 mph (+1.5%). Your speedometer also has its own factory tolerance.
Can I replace 215/75R14 with 205/75R15?
The diameter difference is +1.5%. 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.