Hi all Sifu ,

Tires size 195/55/15 vs 195/50/15 , what is different between them ?

hehehehe...

Changing to 195/55/15 is more rubber, hence in theory will have better comfort and ride but worse handling.

Changing to 195/50/15 on the other hand will actually be less rubber, wheel wells will look emptier but should give better handling. YMMV.

Personally noticed more people change to 195/55/15 rather than 195/50/15 but both are compatible and within the limit of the stock rims which are 6jj et50.

Coz 195/55R15 sizes are much more available with many choices.

The pricing are sometimes better, too

Let's see 195/55 R15 has an outer diameter of = 195*0.55 *2 +15*25.4 = 595.5

while a 1950/50 R15 has an outer diameter of = 195*0.55 *2 +15*25.4 = 576.

Not only if you have a larger outer diameter, you also have a large sidewall height 107.25 v s 97.5 mm.

As the larger sidewall height would yield more air, you should be able to carry a much higher load. the standard load of 195/55R15 has a 85 load index vs 82 load index of 195/50R15.

So how does this affect you?

To be honest as a city driver, you will not miss a bit. But do watch our for the outer diameter change and also the clearance in your wheel area.

The 195/55 has almost 1cm taller sidewall so 195/55 will be:
1. more comfortable, consequently slightly less responsive steering.
2. Bigger rolling diameter by almost 2cm so actual speed is higher than 195/50 for the same rpm.
3. Distance travelled will be slightly more
4. Heavier and theoretically slightly more fuel consumption.
5. Higher ground clearance by almost 1cm.
6. Reduce fender gaps by almost 1 cm.
Additionally 195/55 has more choices in the market.