The correct tire size is crucial for the overall performance and safety of your vehicle. While it may be tempting to replace a 205/65 R16 tire with a 205/55 R16 size, it isn’t recommended. The significant difference in diameter between these two sizes can lead to inaccurate readings on your speedometer and confusion for the car’s computer
Simply put, it is made up of a series of numbers. Let’s use 205/55 R16 as an example. The first value (in this example, 205) is the tyre width in millimeters. The second value (55) is the tyre profile in percentage. The third value (16) is the rim diameter in inches. The letter at the start of the third value refers to the type of tyre
In this case, the overall diameter of a 215/60r16 tire is 26.16 inches, while the 215/55r16 tire measures 25.31 inches in diameter. This leads to a difference of about 0.85 inches, or approximately 3.3%. As this is slightly over the advised 3% limit, using a 215/60r16 tire instead of a 215/55r16 might not be suggested.
Yes, you can use 205 55R16 instead of 215 60R16. The tires will look slightly higher and the wheel diameter will be slightly bigger. Please note that you may experience a slight increase in comfort, fuel consumption, and the real speed (radar measured) may be slightly higher than the dashboard display. However, it is important … read more Chapter/Region: E. Canada. the stock size for your '02 WRX is 205/55x16 on the stock 16x6.5 alloy wheels. Assuming you're going to use the stock wheels, this size will obviously work fine. 205/60x16 is too tall - slower acceleration, less stiff sidewall, probably heavier tire as well, i.e. wrong size.
Tools & Tech: 205-60R16 tire size comparison with 1010tires.com Tire Size calculator. Use our tire calculator to compare tire sizes based on tire diameter, radius, sidewall height, circumference, revs per mile and speedometer difference.
