SidewallerTire & wheel calculators

205/50R16 vs 205/55R16

205/55R16 is 3.4% taller (+0.81 in) and the same width than 205/50R16.

Caution
Check before you buy

205/55R16 is 3.4% taller than 205/50R16. It often still fits, but expect a noticeable speedometer error and check clearance at full steering lock.

205/50R16205/55R16Change
Diameter24.07″24.88″+0.81″+3.4%
Width8.07″8.07″0.00″0.0%
Sidewall4.04″4.44″+0.40″+10.0%
Circumference75.6″78.2″+2.5″+3.4%
Wheel16″16″Same
Revs per mile838811−27
SideTread
205/50R16205/55R16
Speedometer shows 60 mph62.0mph

Real speed on 205/55R16.

Ground clearance+0.40in

Change in height under the axle.

Width per side0.00in

On the same wheel, split inboard and outboard.

Shop 205/55R16 tires

Opens the store’s own search

Prices and stock change often, so check a few stores. We don’t earn anything from these links.

205/50R16 or 205/55R16?

Can I use 205/55R16 instead of 205/50R16?

205/55R16 is 3.4% taller than 205/50R16. It often still fits, but expect a noticeable speedometer error and check clearance at full steering lock. Also match or beat the original load index and speed rating, and check that the wheel width suits the new tire.

Will my speedometer be off?

At an indicated 60 mph on 205/55R16 you are really doing 62.0 mph if the speedometer was set up for 205/50R16. Going the other way, 205/50R16 would make it read 58.1 mph at a real 60.

How much ground clearance does it change?

Half the diameter difference: +0.40 in (+10 mm) under the axle.

Other comparisons