195/65R15 vs 205/55R16Tire Size Comparison

Safe

The 0.4% diameter difference is within the accepted 3% tolerance.

195/65R15635mm dia205/55R16632mm dia-1.3mm

Comparison Details

Overall Diameter634.5 vs 631.9 mm (-2.6 mm)
Diameter Difference-0.41%
Section Width195 vs 205 mm (+10 mm)
Sidewall Height126.8 vs 112.8 mm (-14.0 mm)
Circumference1993.3 vs 1985.2 mm
Clearance Change-1.3 mm
Speedometer Error-0.41%
Revs/Mile807 vs 811

Speedometer Correction

When switching from 195/65R15 to 205/55R16, your speedometer will differ from actual speed.

SpeedometerActual SpeedDifference
30 km/h29.9 km/h-0.1 km/h
40 km/h39.8 km/h-0.2 km/h
50 km/h49.8 km/h-0.2 km/h
60 km/h59.8 km/h-0.2 km/h
70 km/h69.7 km/h-0.3 km/h
80 km/h79.7 km/h-0.3 km/h
90 km/h89.6 km/h-0.4 km/h
100 km/h99.6 km/h-0.4 km/h
110 km/h109.5 km/h-0.5 km/h
120 km/h119.5 km/h-0.5 km/h
130 km/h129.5 km/h-0.5 km/h

Vehicles Using These Sizes

Vehicles with 205/55R16

Individual Tire Size Details

Practical Guidance

Switching from 195/65R15 to 205/55R16 is within the industry-accepted 3% diameter tolerance. Your speedometer, ABS, and traction control should function normally. Note: these sizes require different rim diameters (15" vs 16"), so you will need different wheels.

The 3% diameter tolerance is a widely accepted industry guideline referenced by the ETRTO and most vehicle manufacturers. When in doubt, consult your vehicle's owner's manual or a qualified tire professional. For U.S. tire safety standards and recalls, see the NHTSA Tire Safety page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Safe. The overall diameter differs by -0.41%, width changes by 10mm.

Speedometer error will be -0.41%. At an indicated 100 km/h, actual speed is about 99.6 km/h.

Ground clearance changes by -1.3mm per side.