Tire size comparison

215/75R14 vs 205/75R15

205/75R15 is +1.5% taller than 215/75R14: 27.1 in vs 26.7 in (+0.41 in), and 0.4 in narrower. With 205/75R15 on a vehicle set up for 215/75R14, the speedometer shows 60 mph at an actual 60.9 mph. That is within the ±3% difference many shops use as a rule of thumb (not a manufacturer or legal limit).

1

Your current size

e.g. 265/70R17, 2657017 or 33x12.50R20

Where do I find my size?

It's on the tire sidewall, e.g. P265/70R17 115T, and on the tire placard sticker on the driver's door jamb (also in the owner's manual). If your current tires aren't the original size, the placard shows what the vehicle came with. Digits are enough here: 2657017 or 33125020.

2

Size you're considering

 

215/75R14 vs 205/75R15: full comparison

215/75R14205/75R15Difference
Overall diameter26.70 in27.11 in+0.41 in (+1.5%)
Width8.46 in8.07 in−0.39 in (−4.7%)
Sidewall height6.35 in6.05 in−0.30 in
Circumference83.9 in85.2 in+1.3 in
Revs per mile (nominal)755744−11
Wheel diameter14 in15 in+1 in
Diameter in mm678688+10 mm

Speedometer difference

Your speedometer is calibrated for 215/75R14. Fitted with 205/75R15, the actual speed is the reading × 27.11 ÷ 26.70.

Speedometer showsActual speedDifference
20 mph20.3 mph+0.3 mph
30 mph30.5 mph+0.5 mph
45 mph45.7 mph+0.7 mph
55 mph55.8 mph+0.8 mph
60 mph60.9 mph+0.9 mph
70 mph71.1 mph+1.1 mph
80 mph81.2 mph+1.2 mph

Estimate from the size change only. Factory speedometers have their own tolerance, real tires differ from nominal, and recalibration options differ by vehicle.

Real tires: published diameters

215/75R14: 26.6 in published by 1 maker; 205/75R15: 27–27.1 in published by 2 makers. Calculated figures assume a nominal tire; the exact difference between two specific tires depends on their models.

More about each size: 215/75R14 · 205/75R15

Related comparisons

205/75R14 vs 215/75R14+2.3% diameter205/75R15 vs 225/75R15+4.4% diameter

FAQ

Which is bigger, 215/75R14 or 205/75R15?

205/75R15 is +1.5% taller than 215/75R14: 27.1 in vs 26.7 in (+0.41 in).

How much will my speedometer be off with 205/75R15 instead of 215/75R14?

The speedometer is calibrated for 215/75R14. With 205/75R15 it shows 60 mph when you are doing 60.9 mph, and 70 mph at 71.1 mph (+1.5%). Your speedometer also has its own factory tolerance.

Can I replace 215/75R14 with 205/75R15?

The diameter difference is +1.5%. Whether it fits depends on things this calculation can't see: wheel width and offset, clearance at full lock and over bumps, load index and speed rating, and your vehicle maker's approval. Check your door-jamb placard and owner's manual and ask a tire professional.

Important: These are calculated (nominal) dimensions, not a fitment recommendation. Real tires of the same size differ by brand and model (makers allow about ±3% of section height), and width changes with the rim it is mounted on. The math can't see wheel width and offset, clearance at full steering lock and suspension travel, load index, speed rating, or what your vehicle maker approves. Before changing size, check your door-jamb placard and owner's manual and ask a tire professional. A replacement tire must meet or exceed the load index and speed rating on the placard.