195/65R15 vs 205/55R16

205/55R16 is 3.0 mm shorter than 195/65R15 in overall diameter (−0.5%), within the usual 3% limit, so it can replace it where the wheels and clearance allow. With 205/55R16 fitted, the speedometer reads 100 km/h when you are doing 99.5 km/h.

Dimensions side by side

	195/65R15	205/55R16
Overall diameter	635 mm (25.0″)	632 mm (24.9″)
Section width	195 mm	205 mm
Sidewall height	127 mm	113 mm
Rim	15″	16″
Revolutions per km	501	504
In stock	61 tires from $85.00	92 tires from $88.00

What changes

Overall diameter: 205/55R16 is 3.0 mm shorter (−0.5%).
Speedometer: reads 100 km/h at an actual 99.5 km/h with 205/55R16.
205/55R16 is 10 mm wider, so check clearance and the recommended rim width.
Wheel size changes from 15″ to 16″: you need wheels in the new size.
Choose a load index at least as high as the one on your door placard.

Vehicles that came with both sizes

Vehicles that use 195/65R15

Vehicles that use 205/55R16

See every alternate size for 195/65R15

Frequently asked questions

Can I use 205/55R16 instead of 195/65R15?

Usually, yes: 205/55R16 is within 3% of the overall diameter of 195/65R15 (−0.5%). Use wheels of the right size and width, match or exceed the original load index, and check clearance at full steering lock.

How much does the speedometer change between 195/65R15 and 205/55R16?

With 205/55R16 instead of 195/65R15, the speedometer shows 100 km/h when you are actually doing 99.5 km/h.

Which vehicles came with both 195/65R15 and 205/55R16?

Both sizes were original equipment, on different trims or packages, on the 2022–2024 Nissan Versa, 2012–2020 Chevrolet Sonic, 2004, 2010–2014, 2016–2019 Volkswagen Golf, 2018–2019 Kia Forte5, 2019 Chevrolet Cruze, 2009–2011, 2014–2018 Toyota Corolla.