Tire Size 215/60r16 vs 225/60r16
The main difference between a 215/60r16 tire and a 225/60r16 tire lies in width. The 225/60r16 tire is wider by approximately 0.39 inches (10 mm), contributing to a larger overall diameter of 26.63 inches (676.4 mm) as opposed to the 215/60r16’s diameter of 26.16 inches (664.4 mm). This results in the 225/60r16 tire having fewer revolutions per mile due to its larger circumference.
215/60r16 vs 225/60r16
The table compares the features of tire sizes 225/60r16 and 215/60r16, along with the percentage difference between them.
| Feature | 225/60r16 | 215/60r16 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter | 26.63″ | 26.16″ | 0.47″ |
| Width inches | 8.86″ | 8.46″ | 0.39″ |
| Circumference | 83.66″ | 82.18″ | 1.48″ |
| Sidewall Height | 5.31″ | 5.08″ | 0.24″ |
| Revolutions | 757.35 | 771.03 | 13.68 |
| Rim Size | 16″ | 16″ | Same |
| Rim Width Range | 6.0-8.0″ | 6.0-7.5″ | Different |
Overall Diameter
The 225/60R16 tire has an overall diameter of 26.63 inches (676.4 mm), while the 215/60R16 tire is slightly smaller, at 26.16 inches (664.4 mm). This 1.8% difference results in marginally higher ground clearance for the 225 tires, which can be advantageous in off-road scenarios or when navigating rough terrain.
Conversely, the smaller 215 tires may offer a more accurate speedometer reading but at the cost of reduced ground clearance. However, both diameters are within the 3% recommended difference from factory tires, minimizing potential disruption to vehicle systems.
Section Width
A wider tire often correlates to improved traction. The 225 tire, with a width of 8.86 inches (225 mm), provides a larger contact patch than the 215 tire, which measures 8.46 inches (215 mm) wide.
This 4.4% difference in width increases the 225 tire’s grip during acceleration, braking, and cornering, though it may generate more road noise. Conversely, the narrower 215 tire could have less traction due to its smaller contact area, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
Circumference
The circumference of a tire affects the speedometer reading. The 225/60R16 tire, with a circumference of 83.66 inches (2124.97 mm), will result in lower speedometer readings compared to the 215/60R16 tire, which has a circumference of 82.18 inches (2087.27 mm).
This 1.8% difference means the 225 tire makes fewer revolutions per mile, potentially affecting the odometer and fuel efficiency calculations.
Sidewall Height
Sidewall height impacts both vehicle aesthetics and ride comfort. The 225/60R16 has a taller sidewall (5.31 inches or 135 mm) compared to the 215/60R16 (5.08 inches or 129 mm). This 4.4% difference results in a smoother ride for the 225 tires, as it can absorb more road bumps.
The taller sidewall also enhances traction on snowy or icy roads. However, the 215 tire’s shorter sidewall may offer a sportier, more aggressive look, despite its potentially harsher ride.
Revolutions Per Mile
Higher tire revolutions per mile (RPM) can increase tire wear. The 215/60R16 tire, with 771.03 RPM, covers less distance per revolution compared to the 225/60R16 tire, which has 757.35 RPM.
This 1.8% difference means the 215 tire experiences more friction, potentially reducing its lifespan. Conversely, the 225 tire might have a longer lifespan due to fewer revolutions per mile.
Rim Size
Both tires fit a 16″ rim, but the width range varies. The 225/60R16 tire can accommodate a rim width between 6.0-8.0 inches, giving it a more aggressive and sporty look. On the other hand, the 215/60R16 tire fits rim widths from 6.0-7.5 inches, leading to a more classic or conservative appearance.
Construction Type
The ‘R’ in the tire size denotes radial construction, which means the tire’s internal ply cords are oriented radially, from the center out towards the tire’s beads. Both tires share this construction type, which is known for its excellent longevity and performance.
How much taller is a 225/60r16 tire than a 215/60r16?
The height of a 225/60r16 tire measures 26.63 inches (676.4 mm), whereas the height of a 215/60r16 tire comes in at 26.16 inches (664.4 mm). This indicates that the 225/60r16 tire is taller than the 215/60r16 tire by about 0.47 inches or equivalently, 12 mm.
How much wider is a 225/60r16 tire than a 215/60r16?
In terms of width, a 225/60r16 tire measures 8.86 inches (225 mm) across, while a 215/60r16 tire measures 8.46 inches (215 mm). Therefore, the 225/60r16 tire is wider than the 215/60r16 tire by approximately 0.39 inches or about 10 mm.
Can I use 225/60r16 instead of 215/60r16?
When we compare the overall diameters of a 225/60r16 tire (26.63 inches or 676.4 mm) and a 215/60r16 tire (26.16 inches or 664.4 mm), the difference is approximately 0.47 inches or 12 mm, representing a variation of around 1.8%. Since this percentage is less than the advised 3% difference, using a 225/60r16 tire instead of a 215/60r16 seems feasible.
Can I put a 225/60r16 on a 215/60r16?
If we look at the recommended rim width range, the 225/60r16 tire can be mounted on a rim with a width range of 6.0-8.0 inches, while the 215/60r16 tire can fit on a rim with a width range of 6.0-7.5 inches.
This overlap in rim width range suggests that a 225/60r16 tire could technically be installed on a rim designed for a 215/60r16 tire.
Our Observation
The decision between the 215/60R16 and 225/60R16 will depend on personal preferences and driving conditions. If you prefer a smoother ride, improved traction, and possibly a longer tire lifespan, the 225/60R16 may be the better choice.
However, if fuel efficiency, tire noise, and a sportier aesthetic are more important, then the 215/60R16 might be the optimal selection. Ensure that the selected tire size suits your vehicle specifications and driving requirements before making the final choice.
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.
