205/70R15 Tire Size Specifications & Compatible Vehicles

668mm144mmR15205/70R15Width: 205mm (8.1")
Overall Diameter
668.0 mm
Section Width
205 mm
Sidewall Height
143.5 mm
Circumference
2098.6 mm
Revs/Mile
767
Rim Diameter
15"

Alternative Tire Sizes

These tire sizes are within 3% overall diameter of 205/70R15 and may be used as replacements:

215/55R17 Safe  0.0% · +10mm · +2" rim 195/80R14 Safe  0.1% · -10mm · -1" rim 215/60R16 Safe  0.5% · +10mm · +1" rim 205/75R14 Safe  0.7% · same width · -1" rim 205/65R16 Safe  0.7% · same width · +1" rim 195/75R15 Safe  0.8% · -10mm · same rim 215/65R15 Safe  1.1% · +10mm · same rim 195/65R16 Safe  1.2% · -10mm · +1" rim 225/60R16 Safe  1.3% · +20mm · +1" rim 185/75R15 Safe  1.4% · -20mm · same rim 225/50R17 Caution  1.7% · +20mm · +2" rim 225/55R17 Caution  1.7% · +20mm · +2" rim

Popular Comparisons

See how 205/70R15 compares to other common tire sizes:

205/70R15 vs 215/65R16 Older sedan upgrade path

Understanding 205/70R15

The tire size 205/70R15 means the tire has a section width of 205mm, an aspect ratio of 70% (the sidewall height is 70% of the width), and fits a 15-inch rim.

Sidewall Height = 205 x 0.7 = 143.5 mm
Overall Diameter = (143.5 x 2) + (15 x 25.4) = 668.0 mm
Circumference = 668.0 x π = 2098.6 mm

With an aspect ratio of 70%, this is a high-profile tire with a tall sidewall. High-profile tires provide a cushioned ride, better absorption of road imperfections, and greater resistance to sidewall damage — ideal for trucks, SUVs, and off-road use.

Choosing Replacement Tires

When replacing 205/70R15 tires, verify the size matches your vehicle's tire placard (typically found on the driver's door jamb or in the owner's manual). The NHTSA Tire Ratings Search tool lets you look up manufacturer load and speed ratings for specific tires.

Key factors beyond size: load index (must meet or exceed the vehicle's requirement), speed rating (must match or exceed the original specification), and seasonal type (all-season, summer, or winter) based on your driving conditions. The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association recommends replacing all four tires at once, or at minimum in pairs on the same axle.