Tire Scouter

185/50R16 tires

Compare 2 models made in this size across 2 categories, ranked by spec score, then confirm fitment for your vehicle.

Spec scores are estimates from five manufacturer specs, not road tests. How we score

Shop 185/50R16 tires at Tire Rack

See tires in this size, then confirm the load index and speed rating your vehicle needs.

We may earn a commission from retailer links. Learn more

Shop 185/50R16 at Tire Rack
Our top pick in 185/50R16

Continental ProContact TX

  • Touring all-season

Best for drivers prioritizing dry performance.

The Continental ProContact TX is a solid choice for drivers who prioritize dry road performance and handling precision.

  • Treadwear warranty of 55,000 miles, though below the category average, is still reasonable for a touring tire.
  • Dry grip score of 9.5 significantly exceeds the category average of 7.8, offering strong performance in dry conditions.
  • Handling score of 9.5 matches its dry grip, indicating responsive and precise control.
Full analysis

The highest spec score among touring all-season tires in this size that we have analysis for, the most common category for 185/50R16.

68Good
55k mi
400
A
H · 130 mph

Every scale below runs from the lowest to the highest spec score among the 2 scored tires in 185/50R16 (68 to 68).

Best touring all-season tires in 185/50R16

1 model, highest spec score first.

All touring all-season tires

  1. Continental ProContact TX

    Best for drivers prioritizing dry performance.

    68Good
    Warranty
    55k mi
    Treadwear
    400
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    H · 130 mph
    • Treadwear warranty of 55,000 miles, though below the category average, is still reasonable for a touring tire.
    • Dry grip score of 9.5 significantly exceeds the category average of 7.8, offering strong performance in dry conditions.
    • The low treadwear rating of 400 could mean more frequent replacements, impacting long-term value.

Best grand touring all-season tires in 185/50R16

1 model, highest spec score first.

All grand touring all-season tires

  1. Vredestein Quatrac

    Severe-snow rated

    Best for comfort-focused drivers.

    68Good
    Warranty
    55k mi
    Treadwear
    400
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    H · 130 mph
    • Comfort and noise scores both at 8, matching the category benchmarks, which makes for a pleasant ride.
    • Wet grip score of 7.5 slightly exceeds the category average of 7.4, providing reliable performance in rainy conditions.
    • The 55,000-mile treadwear warranty is below the category average, which could increase long-term costs for high-mileage drivers.

Vehicles that use 185/50R16

A sample of recent vehicles whose factory front size is 185/50R16. Sizes can vary by trim, so confirm yours before you buy.

  • 2019 Smart Fortwo
  • 2018 Smart Fortwo
  • 2017 Smart Fortwo
  • 2016 Smart Fortwo

Popular brands in 185/50R16

The number beside each brand is how many of its models come in this size.

What 185/50R16 means

185/50R16 designates a tire 185 mm (7.3") wide with a sidewall 50% as tall as it is wide — about 93 mm (3.6") — mounted on a 16-inch wheel. That works out to an overall diameter of roughly 23.3", a circumference of about 73.1", and approximately 866 revolutions per mile. Exact figures vary slightly by manufacturer and tread design.

Of the 2 185/50R16 tire models we track, the most common category is touring all-season (1 model), followed by grand touring all-season (1) — a good indicator of the kind of vehicles and driving this size is designed for.

Sidewall height
93 mm
Overall diameter
23.3 in
Circumference
73.1 in
Revs per mile
866

Frequently asked questions

What does 185/50R16 mean?

185/50R16 breaks down as follows: 185mm is the tire's section width (the widest point), 50 is the aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width), R means radial construction, and 16 is the wheel diameter in inches.

What vehicles use 185/50R16 tires?

185/50R16 is a common fitment for vehicles like the 2019 Smart Fortwo, 2018 Smart Fortwo, 2017 Smart Fortwo, 2016 Smart Fortwo. Always confirm your specific trim's fitment before purchasing.

How tall is a 185/50R16 tire?

A 185/50R16 tire has a sidewall height of about 93 mm (3.6") and an overall diameter of roughly 23.3", turning approximately 866 revolutions per mile. Actual dimensions vary slightly by manufacturer and model, so confirm against your vehicle's placard before changing sizes.

185/50R16 research guides

All-season tires buying guide

A practical primer on how all-season tires perform, who they fit best, and what to compare.

Read the guide

Tire rotation guide

Rotation intervals and patterns for FWD, RWD and AWD vehicles, directional tires and staggered setups.

Read the guide

Tire warranty explained

Mileage warranties, exclusions, road hazard fine print, and how to compare warranty language intelligently.

Read the guide

Confirm 185/50R16 fits your vehicle

Wheel size can vary by trim and option package. Enter your year, make, model, and trim to verify fitment before you order.

Check my vehicle