255/60R15 vs 295/50R15

255/60R15 is 0.4" taller than 295/50R15 (1.6%)

Diameter difference−1.60%diameter 27.05" → 26.61"
255/60R15295/50R15
255/60R15295/50R15Difference
Overall diameter27.05"26.61"−0.43"
Section width10.04"11.61"+1.57"
Sidewall height6.02"5.81"−0.22"
Circumference85.0"83.6"−1.4"
Revolutions per mile746758+12
Wheel diameter15"15"±0"

Speedometer

ShowsActualDiff
30 mph29.5 mph−0.5
45 mph44.3 mph−0.7
60 mph59.0 mph−1.0
70 mph68.9 mph−1.1
80 mph78.7 mph−1.3

Gear ratio to match

CurrentEquivalent
3.423.37
3.553.49
3.733.67
4.104.03

295/50R15 is 0.43" shorter than 255/60R15, a −1.60% change in diameter, inside the 3% range most shops treat as a safe swap.

Ground clearance changes by 0.22" (half the diameter change), and the tire needs 0.22" less room above it.

295/50R15 is 1.57" wider. On the same wheel offset about half of that, 0.79", moves toward the suspension and half toward the fender.

Both fit a 15" wheel; the sidewall is 0.22" shorter on 295/50R15.

Details: 255/60R15 in inches · 295/50R15 in inches · change sizes in the calculator

FAQ

What is the difference between 255/60R15 and 295/50R15?

295/50R15 is 0.43" shorter (−1.60%) and 1.57" wider than 255/60R15.

Will 295/50R15 change my speedometer?

Yes, by −1.60%. When the speedometer shows 60 mph you would be going 59.0 mph.

Can I replace 255/60R15 with 295/50R15?

Often yes: the diameter change of −1.6% is within the common 3% guideline. Check the load index, speed rating and clearance.