185/55R15 vs 185/60R14
Switching from 185/55R15 to 185/60R14 decreases the overall diameter by 6.9 mm (1.2%). That is within the usual ±3% guideline.
| 185/55R15 | 185/60R14 | Difference (mm / revs) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section width | 185 mm | 185 mm | +0.0 |
| Sidewall height | 101.8 mm | 111.0 mm | +9.2 |
| Rim diameter | 381.0 mm | 355.6 mm | -25.4 |
| Overall diameter | 584.5 mm | 577.6 mm | -6.9 |
| Circumference | 1,836.3 mm | 1,814.6 mm | -21.7 |
| Revolutions | 545 per km | 551 per km | +6.0 |
Speedometer effect
With 185/60R14 fitted on a car calibrated for 185/55R15, the real speed when the speedometer shows:
| Speedometer shows | Actual speed |
|---|---|
| 50 km/h | 49.4 km/h |
| 80 km/h | 79.1 km/h |
| 100 km/h | 98.8 km/h |
| 120 km/h | 118.6 km/h |
Smaller tires make the speedometer read higher than the actual speed. Most speedometers also read slightly high from the factory.
Before you change size
- Check the sizes approved for your vehicle on the door-jamb placard or in the owner's manual.
- Check clearance to suspension, brakes and arches at full lock and full compression.
- Match or exceed the original load index and speed rating.
- Wider tires need an appropriate rim width; a 185 mm tire has a manufacturer-specified rim width range.
185/55R15 dimensions · 185/60R14 dimensions · Open in calculator