Want to upgrade your main vehicle’s tires? How do you know which tire is right for you? Considering this, this article will be very helpful if this is the case.
In this article, I will discuss 185/55r15 vs 185/60r15 tire sizes and provide vital information about the two best tires available today.
Besides learning the basic differences between the two tires, you will also gain valuable insight into their ability and performance.
Moreover, you’ll learn why these tires are unique and stand out from the competition. So let’s begin with more information.
What Is Tire Metric Sizing?
A metric tire size begins with the width, followed by the sidewall height (represented as a percentage), then the radial construction, and then the wheel size. You find the tire metric sizing before the tire code number. Generally, there are Five types of Tires:
P -Metric:
A P-metric tire is considered a passenger car tire by the Tire and Rim Association. Typically, tires marked “P” are designed for passenger cars, minivans, SUVs, and light trucks.
Euro-Metric:
Euro-Metric tires lack a preceding letter and are standardized by the European Tyre and Rim Technical Organization. Tires designed for passenger vehicles, such as cars, minivans, SUVs, and light-duty pickup trucks, can be found in both types.
LT- Metric:
“LT” is a Tire and Rim Association designation for a “light truck” tire. Tires for light trucks have heavy loads or trailers to pull.
T- Metric:
“T” stands for “temporary” and refers to your spare tire.
ST- Metric:
Special trailer tires cannot be installed on drives or steering wheels. ST stands for “special trailer.” Only trailer wheels can use it.
Basic Difference Between 185/55r15 vs 185/60r15 Tire Size
| Features | 185/55r15 | 185/60r15 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Diameter | 23 inches | 23.7 inches | 0.7 inches |
| Aspect Ratio | 55% | 60% | 5% |
| Sidewall Height | 4.1 inches | 4.4 | 0.3 inches |
| Rim width Range | 5 -6.50 inches | 5 -6.50 inches | None |
| Typical Weight | 15lbs | 16lbs | 1lbs |
| Tire Pressure | 51 psi | 44psi | 7psi |
| Tire Capacity | 1047lbs | 1102 lbs | 55lbs |
| Speed Rating | 118mph | 118mph | None |
| Reverse Per Mile | 908 rpm | 878 rpm | 30rpm |
| Radius | 10.6 inches | 10.9 inches | 0.3inches |
| circumference | 72.2inches | 74.4 inches | 2.2 inches |
| Trend Depth | 9/32 nds | 9/32nds | none |
Overall Diameter
- A tire’s overall diameter is measured from the top of the tread to its bottom when fully inflated and mounted on a vehicle.
- This measurement plays a crucial role in determining a vehicle’s performance, handling, and safety.
- A larger tire’s diameter stabilizes the vehicle more effectively.
- Different road conditions are determined by this dimension of the tire.
The overall diameter of 185 55r15 tires is 23 inches, while that of 185 60r15 tires is 23.7 inches. There is a 0.7-inch difference between the overall diameter of the two tires.
A tire with a larger overall diameter will travel a greater distance with each revolution, although the difference is insignificant.
Aspect Ratio
- A tire’s aspect ratio determines its handling characteristics.
- Higher aspect ratios can provide a softer ride and improved comfort.
- When the aspect ratio is lower, steering and handling are improved.
- The aspect ratio of a tire is calculated by dividing its width by its height.
For 185 55r15 tires, the aspect ratio is 55%. In regards to the aspect ratio, the 185 60r15 tires have a 60% ratio. In this regard, the two tires differ by 5%. 185 60r15 tires have a higher aspect ratio than 185 55r15 tires.
Sidewall Height
- Tire sidewall height is calculated by subtracting the inner diameter from the outer diameter of the tire.
- Vehicle handling, stability, and ride comfort are affected by sidewall height.
- Shorter side walls provide a firmer ride, and improve handling.
- The higher the sidewall, the softer the ride and the more comfortable it is.
185 55r15 tires have a sidewall height of 4.1 inches. In contrast, the sidewall height of the 185 60r15 tires is 4.4 inches. In this regard, there is a 0.03-inch difference between the two tires.
Rim width Range
- A rim’s width is determined by the distance between its left and right edges.
- Tire section width changes slightly with rim width, but tires remain relatively constant in most measurements.
- A tire with a narrower rim has a narrower section width. Wider rims result in wider sections if the tire is fitted.
- Tire section width generally changes by 2/10″ for every half-inch change in rim width, according to industry guidelines.
For 185 55r15 tires, the rim width range is 5-6.50 inches. 185 60r15 tires come in a rim width range of 5-6.50inches. In other words, both tires have the same width rim .
Typical Weight
- Tires are typically measured in pounds by their mass, or weight.
- A tire’s weight can vary based on its size, construction, and design.
- Load capacity of a vehicle can be affected by the weight of a tire.
- Fuel efficiency is directly impacted by tire weight.
The weight of 185 55r15 tires is typically 15 lbs. Conversely, 185 60r15 tires typically weigh 16 lbs. In this regard, there is a 1 lbs difference between the two tires.
Tire Pressure
- A tire’s pressure refers to the maximum amount of air it can contain.
- To ensure a tire’s performance, safety, and longevity, it must be properly inflated.
- Check the tire pressure with a reliable air pressure gauge.
- Make sure the tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
The tire pressure in 185/55r15 tires is 51 psi, while the tire pressure in 185/60r15 tires is 44 psi. A difference of 7 psi exists between the pressures of the two tires.
Tire Capacity
- Tire capacity or load index capacity refers to the capacity of a properly inflated tire to carry a given amount of weight safely.
- When a tire is loaded beyond its maximum capacity, it can fail.
- The load should be distributed evenly across all tires.
- You can find this information on the sidewall of your tire after the tire size.
The tire capacity of 185 55r15 tires is 1047 lbs, while the tire capacity of 185 60r15 tires is 11102 lbs. There is 55 lbs of difference between the two tires’ capacities.
Speed Rating
- A tire’s speed rating indicates how fast it can maintain over time.
- At higher speeds, you will have better control and handling –
- Generally speaking, tires with higher speed ratings perform better at slower speeds as well.
- Speed ratings are assigned by tire manufacturers based on their own tests.
Listed below are the speed rating codes on every tire:
| Letter Symbol | Speed rating |
| M | Up to 81 mph |
| N | Up to 87 mph |
| P | Up to 93 mph |
| Q | Up to 99 mph |
| R | Up to 106 mph |
| S | Up to 112 mph |
| T | Up to 118 mph |
| H | Up to 130 mph |
| V | Up to 149mph |
| w | Up to 168 mph |
| Y | Up to 186 mph |
| Z | 149mph |
The speed rating symbol for both 185 55r15 and 185 60r15 tires is T. This indicates that both tires can run up to 118 mph.
Reverse Per Mile
- A tire’s revolutions per mile correspond to the number of turns it makes over one mile.
- Tire specifications and overall diameter can be used to calculate it.
- Speedometer calibration is directly influenced by tire RPM.
- The lower the RPM, the better the fuel efficiency.
185 55r15 tires have a revs per mile of 908 revs. In contrast, 185 60r15 tires rotate at 878 rpm. There is a difference of 30 revs per mile between the two tires
Radius
- A tire’s radius is half its diameter.
- The radius of a tire is determined by measuring the distance between its center and outer edge.
- Braking and steering are both influenced by tire radius.
- The larger the radius, the bigger the tire, and the smaller the radius, the smaller the tire.
185 55r15 tires have a radius of 10.06 inches. While the 185 60r15 tires have a radius of 10.09 inches. In this regard, there is a difference of 0.3 inches between the two tires. Compared to the 185 55r15 tires, the 185 60r15 tires have a slightly higher radius.
Circumference
- The circumference of a tire is its circumference around its circumference.
- The circumference of a tire affects the gearing and transmission of a vehicle.
- To cover a distance, an effective gear ratio is determined by the tire’s circumference.
- Tire circumference is strongly influenced by tire pressure.
The circumference of 185 55r15 tires is 72.2 inches. In contrast, 185 60r15 tires have a circumference of 74.4 inches. The difference between the two is 2.2 inches.
As a result, the circumference of the 185 60r15 is slightly larger than the circumference of the 185 55r15.
Trend Depth
- A tire’s tread depth is measured vertically.
- In most cases, it is measured in 32nds of an inch or millimeters.
- The uneven wear of the tread can indicate alignment or suspension problems.
- A tire’s tread depth affects its performance, safety, and longevity.
The tread depth for the 185 55r15 tires is 9/32 nds. Whereas, the tread depth for the 185 60r15 tires is also the same which is 9/32nds. So, in terms of tread depth, there is no difference between the two tires.
185/55r15 Vs 185/60r15 Tire Size : 10 Replacement Tire Size
| 125/80R15 | 22.9″ | 165/65R15 | 23.4″ |
| 145/65R15 | 22.4″ | 175/60R15 | 23.3″ |
| 165/60R15 | 22.8″ | 185/55R15 | 23.0″ |
| 175/55R15 | 22.6″ | 195/55R15 | 23.4″ |
| 195/50R15 | 22.7″ | 205/50R15 | 23.1″ |
| 114/84/R15 | 22.5″ | 205/55R15 | 23.9″ |
| 245/40R15 | 22.7″ | 225/45R15 | 23.0″ |
| 275/35R15 | 22.6″ | 225/50R15 | 23.9″ |
| 165/65R15 | 23.4″ | 295/35R15 | 23.1″ |
| 175/60R15 | 23.3″ | 175/65R15 | 24.0″ |
Additional Difference Between 185 55r15 and 185 60r15 Tire Size
| Feature | 185 55r15 | 185 60r15 |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Quality | Lower noise quality | Quite noisy then 18555r15 |
| Traction & Grip | Give better grip and traction in wet and snowy surface | Give better grip and traction both in wet and dry surface |
| Driving Condition | Winter Driving | All season Driving |
| UTQG | 640AA | 440 A B |
| Tire & Vehicle Type | Euro | Euro |
Noise Quality
You should also consider your tire’s noise level. For a smoother ride, consider investing in noise-reducing tires. Furthermore, this will help reduce city and town noise pollution.
The 185 55r15 tire has a lower noise quality than the 185 60r15 tire.
Traction & Grip
The width of your tire and the surface you’re riding on both affect grip and traction. Tires with wider treads have more grip on the road, but they are slower.
You will have better traction and grip on wet and snowy surfaces with 185 55r15 tires. In contrast, 185 60r15 size tires will offer you better grip and traction in both wet and dry conditions.
Driving Condition
The driving condition refers to the type of surface on which tires give you a smooth, comfortable ride. 185 55r15 tires can drive in winter snow & slush comfortably .
In contrast, 185 60r15 tires can drive comfortably both in dry and wet surfaces.
UTQG
The Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG) evaluates three factors: treadwear, traction, and temperature.
Treadwear
Treadwear refers to the wear rate of a tire when tested under controlled conditions on a government test course. Generally, a higher rating indicates better treadwear.
Treadwear grades should not be linked to tire mileage projections. Different driving habits, service practices, road characteristics, and climate all affect tire performance.
Traction
A tire’s traction indicates how well it stops in wet conditions. There are four traction grades: AA, A, B, and C. These grades describe how the tire performs under controlled conditions on concrete and asphalt test surfaces.
A tire with an “AA” traction rating should stop at a much shorter distance than a tire with a “C” rating.
Temperature
A tire’s heat resistance is determined by its temperature. When tested on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel under controlled conditions, the temperature grades are A (the highest), B and C.
18555r15 tires have 640AA .In contrast 18560r15 have 440 A B.
Tire & Vehicle Type
A tire’s compatibility with a vehicle is the first thing we consider when buying or replacing it. P-Metric or Euro-Metric tires are usually found on passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks.
A tire code that begins with “P” on a P-Metric tire is for passenger cars, whereas the tire code starting with “E” is for Euro-Metric tires. Trucks and SUVs in the US typically use these tires.
The 18555 r15 tires and 18560r15 tires both come in euro metric. That’s mean both tires are designed for cars, minivans, SUVs, and light-duty pickup trucks
Which Vehicle Can I Use For 185 55r15 Tire Size?
| Year | Make and Model | Front Tire Size | Rear Tire Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Chevrolet Spark | 185/55R15 82H | 185/55R15 82H |
| 2021 | Chevrolet Spark | 185/55R15 82H | 185/55R15 82H |
| 2020 | Chevrolet Spark | 185/55R15 82H | 185/55R15 82H |
| 2019 | Chevrolet Spark | 185/55R15 82H | 185/55R15 82H |
| 2019 | Fiat 500 | 185/55R15 82H | 185/55R15 82H |
| 2018 | Fiat 500 | 185/55R15 82H | 185/55R15 82H |
| 2017 | Fiat 500 | 185/55R15 82H | 185/55R15 82H |
| 2014 | Mazda 2 | 185/55R15 82V | 185/55R15 82V |
| 2013 | Mazda 2 | 185/55R15 82V | 185/55R15 82V |
| 2012 | Mazda 2 | 185/55R15 82V | 185/55R15 82V |
| 2011 | Mazda 2 | 185/55R15 82V | 185/55R15 82V |
| 2010 | Pontiac G3 | 185/55R15 82V | 185/55R15 82V |
| 2009 | Pontiac G3 | 185/55R15 82V | 185/55R15 82V |
Which Vehicle Can I Use For 185 60r15 Tire Size ?
| Year | Make and Model | Front Tire Size | Rear Tire Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Chevrolet City Express | 185/60R15C 94T | 185/60R15C 94T |
| 2017 | Chevrolet City Express | 185/60R15C 94T | 185/60R15C 94T |
| 2016 | Chevrolet City Express | 185/60R15C 94T | 185/60R15C 94T |
| 2015 | Chevrolet City Express | 185/60R15C 94T | 185/60R15C 94T |
| 2019 | Ford Fiesta | 185/60R15 84H | 185/60R15 84H |
| 2018 | Ford Fiesta | 185/60R15 84H | 185/60R15 84H |
| 2017 | Ford Fiesta | 185/60R15 84H | 185/60R15 84H |
| 2020 | Honda Fit | 185/60R15 84T | 185/60R15 84T |
| 2019 | Honda Fit | 185/60R15 84T | 185/60R15 84T |
| 2018 | Honda Fit | 185/60R15 84T | 185/60R15 84T |
| 2017 | Honda Fit | 185/60R15 84T | 185/60R15 84T |
| 2016 | Honda Fit | 185/60R15 84T | 185/60R15 84T |
| 2020 | Nissan NV200 | 185/60R15C 94T | 185/60R15C 94T |
From My Point Of View
In both the 185/55r15 and the 185/60r15 tire sizes, there are advantages and disadvantages, and which is best for you depends on your needs.
An excellent tire has a longer sidewall height, radial construction, and a more comprehensive design. This combination of factors results in improved handling, stability, and fuel economy.
According to all its specifications, the 185 60r15 is a better tire than the 185 55r15. Therefore, I recommend the 185 60r15 tire for your car. The best tire size for you will depend on your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questins
Can You Change Tire Width Without Changing Rims?
Generally, you can fit a tire up to 20 millimeters wider than stock on your original rim.
For every half-inch (12.5 millimeters) of rim width increase, the tire will expand 5 millimeters in width.
Do You Have To Get The Exact Tire Size?
It’s important to stick with the same tire size when buying replacements for your vehicle.
It is because a different-size tire can confuse your speedometer and cause damage to your vehicle’s anti-lock braking system and stability control calibration.
Can I Put 185 Tires On 165 Rims?
Yes, it can be fit. You can use it as long as you change the wheels/alloys to 15 inches. You will have to pay extra for it.
The 185/70R14, 195/65R14, and 205/60R14 can be fitted with existing rims or alloys if you are changing rims/alloys to 15 inches.
Final Thoughts
Automobile manufacturers always come with the right-sized tires. Unless you are replacing your car’s tires with the same size, the tires that came with your car will already be sized correctly.
While we compared 185 55r15 and 185 60r15 in terms of their size, materials, and performance, they have both weaknesses and strengths. It’s better to determine what your vehicle’s requirements are and then make a decision based on them.
It is highly recommended that you consult a tire technician or the vehicle manufacturer if you are unsure of your vehicle’s tire size.
