195/65R15 vs 205/50R17
Switching from 195/65R15 to 205/50R17 increases the overall diameter by 2.3 mm (0.4%). That is within the usual ±3% guideline.
| 195/65R15 | 205/50R17 | Difference (mm / revs) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section width | 195 mm | 205 mm | +10.0 |
| Sidewall height | 126.8 mm | 102.5 mm | -24.3 |
| Rim diameter | 381.0 mm | 431.8 mm | +50.8 |
| Overall diameter | 634.5 mm | 636.8 mm | +2.3 |
| Circumference | 1,993.3 mm | 2,000.6 mm | +7.3 |
| Revolutions | 502 per km | 500 per km | -2.0 |
Speedometer effect
With 205/50R17 fitted on a car calibrated for 195/65R15, the real speed when the speedometer shows:
| Speedometer shows | Actual speed |
|---|---|
| 50 km/h | 50.2 km/h |
| 80 km/h | 80.3 km/h |
| 100 km/h | 100.4 km/h |
| 120 km/h | 120.4 km/h |
Larger tires make the car go faster than the speedometer shows. 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 205 mm tire has a manufacturer-specified rim width range.
195/65R15 dimensions · 205/50R17 dimensions · Open in calculator