Tire Size 205/60r15 vs 195/65r15
The main difference between the tire sizes 205/60r15 and 195/65r15 is that the 205/60r15 has a wider tread width while the 195/65r15 has a taller sidewall. Let’s take a closer look at how these differences impact various performance factors.
| / | R |
| / | R |
| Parameter | 235/35 R18 | 205/40 R18 | Differ. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tire Height | |||
| Section Width | |||
| Circumference | |||
| Sidewall Height | |||
| Revolutions | |||
| Rim Size |
Fitment
The 195/65r15 tire has an overall diameter that is 1.2% larger than the 205/60r15. This means you can likely replace a 205/60r15 tire with a 195/65r15 without issues.
However, going more than 3% bigger or smaller in overall diameter may require adjustments to avoid rubbing or clearance problems.
Ground Clearance
The taller sidewall of the 195/65r15 provides an extra 0.15 inches (3.75mm) of ground clearance compared to the 205/60r15.
This added clearance reduces the risk of scrapes and damage from obstacles or uneven roads. However, the larger diameter of the 195/65r15 causes a slightly lower speedometer reading.
Fuel Economy
With a narrower tread width and smaller contact patch, the 195/65r15 tire has less rolling resistance, which can improve fuel efficiency slightly compared to the 205/60r15. Less rubber on the road means the engine has to work a little less hard.
Ride Comfort
The extra cushioning from the taller sidewall of the 195/65r15 absorbs more impacts from cracks and bumps, leading to a smoother ride than the 205/60r15. This difference is modest but can be noticeable over very rough terrain.
Appearance
Visually, the 195/65r15 will have a slightly taller sidewall than the 205/60r15, giving it a subtly “stretched” look. This aesthetic can suit trucks and SUVs well compared to an overly low-profile appearance.
Handling
The shorter, stiffer sidewall of the 205/60r15 allows sharper, more responsive handling and cornering compared to the flexible 195/65r15. However, both offer stable handling for everyday driving.
Road Noise
With its shorter sidewall unable to dampen vibrations as effectively, the 205/60r15 transmits more road noise into the cabin than the 195/65r15. But both tires still deliver a relatively quiet ride.
Durability
The even contact patch of the 205/60r15 can promote uniform treadwear. The taller sidewall of the 195/65r15 endures more flexing, which generates heat and can accelerate treadwear.
Snow & Ice Traction
The narrower 205/60r15 tread can sometimes cut through snow more effectively to contact the road compared to a wider tire. However, differences in winter traction between these two tires are minor.
Off-Road Ability
The extra ground clearance of the 195/65r15 provides a slight advantage over the 205/60r15 when driving over bumps, rocks, and ruts off-road. But both handle moderate off-road conditions well.
Speedometer Reading
Due to its larger diameter, the 195/65r15 causes the speedometer to read 0.66 mph lower than the actual speed.
At 20 mph actual speed, the speedometer reads 19.34 mph with 195/65r15 tires compared to 20 mph with 205/60r15 tires.
Can I use 195/65r15 instead of 205/60r15?
Looking at the overall diameter, the 195/65r15 tire has an overall diameter of 24.98 inches (or 634.5 mm). In contrast, the 205/60r15 tire has an overall diameter of 24.69 inches (or 627 mm).
The difference in diameter between these two tires is about 0.3 inches (or 7.5 mm), representing a decrease of approximately 1.2%.
This is less than the 3% difference typically advised against when replacing tires, so using a 195/65r15 tire instead of a 205/60r15 tire might be possible.
Can I put a 195/65r15 on a 205/60r15?
The 195/65r15 and 205/60r15 tires both have a rim width range of 5.5-7.0 inches. This indicates that these tires could be mounted interchangeably on the same rims, as their required rim widths overlap.
205/60r15 vs 195/65r15
The table compares the features of tire sizes 195/65-15 and 205/60-15, along with the percentage difference between them.
Our Observation
The 205/60R15 is best suited for responsive handling and a quiet ride thanks to its shorter, stiffer sidewall. The 195/65R15 emphasizes ride comfort and light-duty off-road use with its taller, more flexible sidewall.
For typical on-road driving, we recommend the 205/60R15 for its nimble handling and hushed cabin noise. The 195/65R15 is a good option if you frequently drive over very rough roads or require extra ground clearance.
Overall, most drivers will appreciate the balanced capabilities of the 205/60R15 as an all-around tire size.
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.
