195/80R15 vs 205/70R15

195/80R15 is 1.0" taller than 205/70R15 (3.6%)

Diameter difference−3.61%diameter 27.28" → 26.30"
195/80R15205/70R15
195/80R15205/70R15Difference
Overall diameter27.28"26.30"−0.98"
Section width7.68"8.07"+0.39"
Sidewall height6.14"5.65"−0.49"
Circumference85.7"82.6"−3.1"
Revolutions per mile739767+28
Wheel diameter15"15"±0"

Speedometer

ShowsActualDiff
30 mph28.9 mph−1.1
45 mph43.4 mph−1.6
60 mph57.8 mph−2.2
70 mph67.5 mph−2.5
80 mph77.1 mph−2.9

Gear ratio to match

CurrentEquivalent
3.423.30
3.553.42
3.733.60
4.103.95

205/70R15 is 0.98" shorter than 195/80R15, a −3.61% change in diameter. That is more than the 3% many tire shops use as a limit, so plan on recalibrating the speedometer and checking ABS and stability control.

Ground clearance changes by 0.49" (half the diameter change), and the tire needs 0.49" less room above it.

205/70R15 is 0.39" wider. On the same wheel offset about half of that, 0.20", moves toward the suspension and half toward the fender.

Both fit a 15" wheel; the sidewall is 0.49" shorter on 205/70R15.

Details: 195/80R15 in inches · 205/70R15 in inches · change sizes in the calculator

FAQ

What is the difference between 195/80R15 and 205/70R15?

205/70R15 is 0.98" shorter (−3.61%) and 0.39" wider than 195/80R15.

Will 205/70R15 change my speedometer?

Yes, by −3.61%. When the speedometer shows 60 mph you would be going 57.8 mph.

Can I replace 195/80R15 with 205/70R15?

It is a −3.6% diameter change, larger than the common 3% guideline, so check clearance and plan to recalibrate.