Tire Size 185/55r15 vs 185/60r15
The main difference between 185/55r15 and 185/60r15 tires is the aspect ratio. 185/55r15 tires have a 55 aspect ratio, while 185/60r15 tires have a 60 aspect ratio.
This difference in aspect ratio will have a few impacts on the tire’s performance. Lets Find Out!
| / | R |
| / | R |
| Parameter | 235/35 R18 | 205/40 R18 | Differ. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tire Height | |||
| Section Width | |||
| Circumference | |||
| Sidewall Height | |||
| Revolutions | |||
| Rim Size |
Fitment Guide
Replacement tires should be within 3% of the original tire’s diameter to prevent clearance issues or speedometer inaccuracies.
The 185/60r15 tire diameter is 3.2% larger than the 185/55r15. So 185/60r15 tires may require adaptations like a lift kit to fit some vehicles optimized for 185/55r15 tires.
Ground Clearance
The taller 60 aspect ratio of the 185/60r15 provides 0.36 inches (9.25mm) more ground clearance than the 185/55r15.
This added clearance is helpful for off-roading by preventing scrapes over rough terrain. However, the larger 185/60r15 diameter causes a lower speedometer reading than the 185/55r15.
Gas Mileage
With a minor contact patch and less rotational mass, 185/55r15 tires offer slightly better fuel efficiency than 185/60r15.
The larger diameter and width of the 185/60r15 create more rolling resistance and rotational inertia, hindering mileage.
Ride Comfort
The extra sidewall cushioning of the 185/60r15 absorbs road impacts better than the shorter sidewall of the 185/55r15.
This provides a marginally smoother ride over uneven pavement. However, both sizes deliver comfortable highway and city driving.
Aesthetics
The 185/60r15 modestly taller sidewall has a subtle “stretched” look compared to the 185/55r15 shorter sidewall. This aesthetic can suit trucks and SUVs well. However, the visual difference between the sizes is minor overall.
Handling & Stability
The 185/55r15 shorter sidewall enables crisper handling and quicker response on paved roads.
The 185/60r15 extra sidewall flex slightly reduces handling precision. But both offer responsive, stable handling for everyday driving.
Noise & Vibration
With a shorter, stiffer sidewall, the 185/55r15 transmits more road noise and vibration into the cabin versus the 185/60r15. However, the difference is modest, providing a quiet, comfortable ride.
Durability & Wear
The 185/55r15 smaller contact patch may promote more even treadwear and extended service life compared to the marginally larger 185/60r15. However, real-world tread life depends heavily on driving habits and conditions.
Adverse Conditions
Both sizes handle rain, snow, and light off-roading well. The 185/60r15 has more ground clearance and traction, while the 185/55r15 is more responsive. But overall capability in adverse conditions is very similar.
Speedometer Difference
At an actual speed of 20 mph, the speedometer reads 20.63 mph with 185/60r15 tires versus 20 mph with 185/55r15 tires. This 0.63 mph speedometer difference results from the larger diameter of the 185/60r15.
Can I put a 185/55r15 on a 185/60r15?
Based on the provided data, the rim width range for the 185/55r15 and the 185/60r15 tires is 15″ x 5.0-6.5″. This means that both tire sizes can be mounted on a rim with a width ranging from 5.0 inches to 6.5 inches.
Since the rim width range is the same for both tires, it is possible to mount a 185/55r15 tire on a rim that initially had a 185/60r15 tire and vice versa without any issues related to rim compatibility.
Can I use 185/55r15 instead of 185/60r15?
The overall diameter of a 185/55r15 tire is 23.01 inches (584.5 mm), while the overall diameter of a 185/60r15 tire is 23.74 inches (603 mm).
When we calculate the difference between these two tire sizes, it comes out to approximately 0.73 inches (or 18.5 mm), about 3.2% of the overall diameter.
Since the difference between the two tire sizes exceeds the recommended 3% range, using a 185/55r15 tire instead of a 185/60r15 may be better. They can provide more specific advice based on your vehicle’s specifications and requirements.
185/60r15 vs 185/55r15
This table compares the differences between the options so that you can easily understand them.
Our Observation
The 185/55R15 and 185/60R15 are very evenly matched, with only minor differences in performance. The 185/55R15 offers marginally better handling and fuel efficiency thanks to its shorter sidewall and smaller size.
However, the 185/60R15 provides a bit more cushioned ride and better absorption of road impacts. We recommend the 185/55R15 for most passenger cars and crossovers where responsive handling is preferred.
But the 185/60R15 is a fine choice for vehicles where ride comfort trumps absolute agility. Both deliver excellent ride quality, grip, and everyday drivability.
Meet Caitlin McCormack, a Tire Size Expert and Blogger Passionate About Everything Related to Tires. With Years of Experience in the Tire Industry, Caitlin Has Become an Expert in Tire Sizes and Their Impact on Vehicle Performance.
