Tire Size 205/55r16 vs 205/50r16
The primary difference between the 205/50r16 and 205/55r16 tires is in the aspect ratio, which refers to the height of the tire’s sidewall. A 205/55r16 tire has a 10% taller sidewall height than a 205/50r16 tire, meaning the former provides a higher ride height and potentially a smoother ride due to the additional cushioning. This difference also contributes to slight variations in diameter, circumference, and revolutions per mile.
205/55r16 vs 205/50r16 Table
The table compares the features of tire sizes 205/50-16 and 205/55-16, along with the percentage difference between them.
| Feature | 205/50-16 | 205/55-16 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Diameter | 24.07″ | 24.88″ | 0.81″ |
| Width inches | 8.07″ | 8.07″ | 0 (0) 0% |
| Circumference | 75.62″ | 78.16″ | 2.54″ |
| Sidewall Height | 4.04″ | 4.44″ | 0.4″ |
| Revolutions | 837.86 | 810.68 | 27.18 (-16.89) |
| Rim Size | 16″ | 16″ | Same |
| Rim Width Range | 5.5-7.5″ | 5.5-7.5″ | Same |
Overall Diameter
The 205/55R16 tire has a larger overall diameter (24.88 inches) than the 205/50R16 (24.07 inches). This difference of 0.81 inches or 3.4% may appear insignificant but can affect several aspects of your vehicle’s performance.
A larger diameter means more ground clearance, beneficial for off-road driving or navigating rough terrain. However, it also results in a lower speedometer reading, which could affect your perception of speed and fuel efficiency. The overall diameter exceeds the 3% ratio, so it is not interchangeable.
Section Width
Interestingly, both tire sizes have an identical section width of 8.07 inches. Therefore, there’s no notable variation here. A wider tread width often enhances traction due to a larger contact patch, improving grip during acceleration, braking, and cornering. However, these two tire sizes do not differ in this aspect.
Circumference
The 205/55R16 tire has a larger circumference (78.16 inches) than the 205/50R16 tire (75.62 inches), a 3.4% difference. The larger the circumference, the lower the speedometer readings.
This could mean your vehicle might be traveling faster than the speedometer indicates, which could impact fuel efficiency and possibly lead to inadvertent speeding.
Sidewall Height
The sidewall height differs between the two tire sizes. The 205/55R16 tire has a taller sidewall (4.44 inches) compared to the 205/50R16 (4.04 inches), a difference of 0.4 inches or 10%. The taller sidewall acts as a buffer, absorbing road irregularities and offering a smoother ride.
They also provide increased traction on snowy or icy roads. Conversely, a smaller sidewall can lead to a harsher ride but may provide a sportier and more aggressive look.
Revolutions Per Mile
Revolutions per mile is another critical difference. The 205/55R16 has fewer revolutions per mile (810.68) compared to the 205/50R16 (837.86), a reduction of 3.2%.
This reduction means the 205/55R16 tire covers more distance per revolution, potentially extending its lifespan due to reduced wear. However, higher revolutions per mile could imply faster wear and tear due to increased friction with the road surface.
Rim Size & Width Range
Both tire sizes are compatible with 16″ rims and a rim width range of 5.5-7.5″. Larger rims can provide a more aggressive and sporty look, whereas smaller rims can present a more classic or conservative appearance.
Since both tires have the same recommended rim size, no noticeable difference exists in this aspect.
Construction Type
Both tires use the ‘R’ design, denoting a radial construction type. This is the most common construction for modern tires and offers good heat dissipation and improved fuel efficiency.
How much taller is a 205/55r16 tire than a 205/50r16?
The height of a 205/55r16 tire is 24.88 inches (631.9 mm), while the height of a 205/50r16 tire is 24.07 inches (611.4 mm). Hence, the 205/55r16 tire is about 0.81 inches (or 20.5 mm) taller than the 205/50r16 tire, representing an increase of approximately 3.4%.
Can I use 205/55r16 instead of 205/50r16?
When comparing the two tire sizes, the overall diameter of a 205/55r16 tire is 24.88 inches, while the overall diameter of a 205/50r16 tire is 24.07 inches. This means there’s a difference of roughly 0.81 inches or about 3.4%. Since this percentage exceeds the typically recommended maximum difference of 3%.
It’s generally not advisable to use a 205/55r16 tire instead of a 205/50r16 without consulting a tire or vehicle professional. The larger tire could negatively affect the performance and safety of the vehicle.
Can I put a 205/55r16 on a 205/50r16?
As for installing a 205/55r16 tire on a rim designed for a 205/50r16, the rim width range for both is 16″ x 5.5-7.5″. This indicates that the 205/55r16 tire could fit on the same rim as the 205/50r16.
However, even though the rim width range is compatible, other factors like overall diameter and tire height could influence the safety and performance of the vehicle. Therefore, consulting with a professional before making any changes is always recommended.
Our Observation
Consider your driving conditions and preferences when choosing between the 205/55R16 and 205/50R16. If you frequently drive in off-road conditions or harsh weather, the 205/55R16’s larger diameter, taller sidewall, and lower revolutions per mile could be advantageous.
However, if you prefer a sportier look and feel, the 205/50R16’s smaller sidewall and higher revolutions per mile could be a better choice. Always remember to consider the potential impact on your speedometer readings and fuel efficiency when selecting tire sizes.
Keeping the tire size within 3% of the manufacturer’s recommendations is always recommended to ensure optimal vehicle performance.
