Tire Size Guide

205/50R16 Tires

Compare 40 available models across 6 categories, then confirm fitment for your vehicle.

Our Top Pick in 205/50R16
Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus
Performance All-SeasonValue

The ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus is a strong contender for drivers who prioritize treadlife and dry handling in a performance all-season tire.

Treadlife score of 9.5 is significantly above the category average, supported by a 50,000-mile warranty. Dry grip and handling both score 8, making it a solid choice for spirited driving in various conditions. Comfort score of 6 aligns with the category average, ensuring a reasonable ride quality for a performance tire.
79Spec score (est.)
Full analysis
11 models

Best Performance All-Season Tires in 205/50R16

All Performance All-Season tires

The ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus is a strong contender for drivers who prioritize treadlife and dry handling in a performance all-season tire.

  • Treadlife score of 9.5 is significantly above the category average, supported by a 50,000-mile warranty.
  • Dry grip and handling both score 8, making it a solid choice for spirited driving in various conditions.

Wet grip performance lags slightly behind some competitors, which could be a concern in regions with frequent rain.

50,000 mi warrantyTreadwear 560Traction AA
Spec score79estimated
Details

The General G-MAX AS-07 is a solid choice for drivers seeking a performance all-season tire with a focus on dry grip and handling.

  • Treadlife score of 9 with a 50,000-mile warranty, slightly below the category average of 51,717 miles but still strong for a performance all-season tire.
  • Dry grip rating of 8 matches the category expectation, ensuring reliable performance on dry roads.

Wet grip performance is below some competitors, which could be a concern for those frequently driving in rainy conditions.

50,000 mi warrantyTreadwear 500Traction AA
Spec score78estimated
Details
Nitto Neo GenPerformance

The Nitto Neo Gen is a compelling option for drivers who prioritize dry grip and handling in their ultra-high performance summer tires.

  • Perfect dry grip and handling scores of 10, surpassing the category average of 8.7, make it a strong choice for spirited driving.
  • Wet grip rating of 9 is well above the category average of 7.6, providing confidence in rainy conditions.

Lack of a treadwear warranty could be a concern for budget-conscious buyers looking for long-term value.

Treadwear 280Traction AA
Spec score77estimated
Details

The Falken ZIEX ZE950 A/S is a solid choice for drivers seeking a performance all-season tire with a focus on longevity.

  • Treadlife score of 9.8, paired with a 65,000-mile warranty, exceeds the category average of 51,717 miles.
  • Dry grip rating of 8 matches the performance all-season category's expectations, though slightly below the 8.4 average.

Wet grip performance is not as strong as some competitors, which could be a concern for those in rainy climates.

Treadwear 600Traction A
Spec score76estimated
Details
Show 7 more performance all-season options
Sumitomo HTR A/S P03

65,000 mi warranty · Treadwear 640

75
Hankook Ventus V2 concept2

45,000 mi warranty · Treadwear 500

74
Kumho Ecsta PA51

45,000 mi warranty · Treadwear 500

74
Riken Raptor ZR A/S

Treadwear 300

71
Road Hugger GTP AS/02

60,000 mi warranty · Treadwear 550

70
BFGoodrich g-Force COMP-2 A/S PLUS

45,000 mi warranty · Treadwear 400

69
Toyo Extensa HP II

45,000 mi warranty · Treadwear 500

67
9 models

Best Ultra High Performance Summer Tires in 205/50R16

All Ultra High Performance Summer tires

The Toyo Proxes R888R is a go-to choice for track enthusiasts who prioritize wet grip and handling.

  • Wet grip score of 9 exceeds the category average of 7.6, making it reliable in damp conditions.
  • Dry grip and handling both score 8, providing strong performance on track days.

The lack of a treadwear warranty and low treadwear rating mean frequent replacements, increasing long-term costs.

Treadwear 100Traction AA
Spec score77estimated
Details

The ADVAN NEOVA AD09 is a compelling choice for drivers who prioritize grip and handling above all else.

  • Perfect dry grip score of 10, significantly above the category average of 8.7, makes it ideal for spirited driving on dry roads.
  • Wet grip rating of 9 outperforms the category average of 7.6, offering reliable performance in wet conditions.

The tire's treadwear rating of 200 indicates a potentially shorter lifespan, which could be a concern for those seeking longevity.

Treadwear 200Traction AA
Spec score72estimated
Details
Toyo Proxes R1RPerformance

The Toyo Proxes R1R is a compelling choice for drivers who prioritize wet grip in an ultra high performance summer tire.

  • Wet grip score of 9 surpasses the ultra high performance summer category average of 7.6, making it a strong choice for rainy conditions.
  • Dry grip and handling both score 8, which are competitive for spirited driving and track days.

The R speed rating is lower than typical for ultra high performance summer tires, potentially limiting its suitability for high-speed applications.

Treadwear 200Traction AA
Spec score72estimated
Details

The Dunlop Direzza ZIII is a compelling option for drivers who prioritize dry grip and handling response, with scores of 9 in both areas.

  • Dry grip score of 9, surpassing the category average of 8.7, makes it a strong choice for spirited driving.
  • Handling score of 9 indicates precise steering response, ideal for drivers who value cornering performance.

Wet grip performance is below average for the segment, which could be a concern for drivers in rainy climates.

Treadwear 200Traction A
Spec score68estimated
Details
Show 5 more ultra high performance summer options
Toyo Tire Proxes Sport A/S

50,000 mi warranty

66
Yokohama ADVAN A11A

Treadwear 280

65
Yokohama ADVAN A052

Treadwear 200

62
Sentury UHP

40,000 mi warranty · Treadwear 450

55
8 models

Best Touring All-Season Tires in 205/50R16

All Touring All-Season tires

The Nexen N Priz AH8 is a compelling choice for those who prioritize treadlife and dry grip in a touring all-season tire.

  • Treadwear warranty of 75,000 miles exceeds the category average of 64,578 miles, offering better long-term value.
  • Dry grip score of 8.5 is above the category average of 7.8, making it a solid choice for dry road conditions.

Lacks 3PMSF certification, which is a consideration if you encounter severe winter conditions regularly.

75,000 mi warrantyTreadwear 500Traction A
Spec score75estimated
Details

The Uniroyal Tiger Paw Touring A/S is a solid choice for drivers who prioritize dry and wet grip in a touring all-season tire.

  • Treadwear warranty of 65,000 miles matches the category average, providing reliable longevity.
  • Dry grip score of 8.5 exceeds the category average of 7.8, offering solid performance on dry roads.

The UTQG treadwear rating of 500 suggests a shorter lifespan compared to category norms, affecting long-term value.

75,000 mi warrantyTreadwear 500Traction A
Spec score74estimated
Details

The Westlake RP18 is a budget-friendly option for drivers who prioritize dry grip and handling.

  • Dry grip score of 8.5 exceeds the category average of 7.8, making it a strong performer on dry roads.
  • Comfort and noise scores both meet the category average of 8, ensuring a smooth and quiet ride.

Wet grip performance is subpar, which may not suit drivers in regions with frequent rain.

45,000 mi warrantyTreadwear 500Traction AA
Spec score72estimated
Details

The Kelly Edge Touring A/S is a solid choice for drivers who prioritize dry grip and comfort in a touring all-season tire.

  • Treadlife score of 8.25 with a 65,000-mile warranty aligns well with the category average, promising reasonable longevity for a touring tire.
  • Dry grip score of 8.5 exceeds the category average of 7.8, providing solid performance in dry conditions.

Wet grip performance is notably below average, which may not suit drivers in regions with frequent rain.

65,000 mi warranty
Spec score71estimated
Details
Show 4 more touring all-season options
BFGoodrich Advantage Control

65,000 mi warranty · Treadwear 700

71
Goodyear Assurance All-Season

65,000 mi warranty · Treadwear 600

69
Firestone All Season

65,000 mi warranty · Treadwear 560

68
Advanta ER-800

45,000 mi warranty · Treadwear 420

65
7 models

Best Grand Touring All Season Tires in 205/50R16

All Grand Touring All Season tires

The General AltiMAX RT45 is well-suited for drivers looking for a comfortable and long-lasting tire.

  • Comfort and noise scores of 8 align with category averages, making the AltiMAX RT45 a solid choice for a quiet and smooth ride.
  • The 75,000-mile treadwear warranty significantly exceeds the grand touring all-season average of 62,053 miles, suggesting long-term value.

The 'R' speed rating may not meet the needs of drivers who require higher speed capabilities for performance-oriented vehicles.

75,000 mi warrantyTreadwear 700Traction A
Spec score79estimated
Details

The Yokohama AVID Ascend GT is a solid choice for those prioritizing comfort and longevity in a grand touring all-season tire.

  • Comfort and noise scores both at 8, matching the category average for a smooth and quiet ride.
  • Treadlife rating of 9 and a 65,000-mile warranty exceed the category average, making it a long-lasting option.

The R speed rating may not satisfy drivers looking for higher performance capabilities on the highway.

65,000 mi warrantyTreadwear 740Traction A
Spec score78estimated
Details

The Falken Sincera SN250 A/S is a solid choice for those prioritizing comfort and longevity in a grand touring all-season tire.

  • Comfort and noise scores of 8 align with the category benchmarks, ensuring a smooth and quiet ride.
  • Treadlife warranty of 75,000 miles significantly exceeds the category average of 62,053 miles, offering long-term durability.

The R speed rating may not satisfy drivers who need higher speed capability for highway travel.

80,000 mi warrantyTreadwear 720Traction A
Spec score76estimated
Details

The Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S is a solid choice for drivers who value comfort and noise reduction in a grand touring all-season tire.

  • Comfort and noise scores of 8 match the category benchmarks, making it a solid choice for pleasant long drives.
  • Wet grip rating of 7.5 slightly exceeds the category average of 7.4, offering reliable performance in rainy conditions.

The 45,000-mile treadwear warranty is significantly below the category average, making it less appealing for high-mileage drivers.

65,000 mi warrantyTreadwear 640Traction A
Spec score75estimated
Details
Show 3 more grand touring all season options
Fuzion Touring

55,000 mi warranty · Treadwear 600

72
Vredestein Quatrac

55,000 mi warranty · Treadwear 400

67
Laufenn G FIT AS

45,000 mi warranty · Treadwear 500

67
3 models

Best Winter Tires in 205/50R16

All Winter tires
Michelin X-Ice SnowSafety3PMSF Snow

The Michelin X-Ice Snow is a compelling choice for those who need a winter tire with strong dry grip performance, boasting a score of 8.5 against a category average of 7.1.

  • Dry grip score of 8.5 significantly exceeds the winter category average of 7.1, making it reliable on dry winter roads.
  • Snow traction score of 8 aligns with the category average, ensuring dependable performance in snowy conditions.

If comfort is a top priority, this tire's average comfort score may not meet expectations.

40,000 mi warrantyTreadwear 400
Spec score53estimated
Details

The Firestone Winterforce 2 is a viable option for drivers who need reliable snow traction without a hefty price tag.

  • Snow traction score of 8 matches the winter category's needs for reliable performance in snowy conditions.
  • Comfort score of 6.2 aligns with the category average, making it a reasonable choice for winter commutes.

Lack of a treadwear warranty and below-average wet grip may deter those who need assurance in slushy conditions.

Traction NONE
Spec scoreestimated
Details

The Hankook Winter i Pike RS2 is a solid choice for drivers who prioritize treadlife in their winter tires.

  • Treadlife score of 9.2 is backed by a 70,000-mile warranty, significantly above the winter category average of 54,431 miles.
  • Comfort score of 6.2 is on par with the category average, making it a reasonable choice for daily winter driving.

Lacks 3PMSF certification, which is essential for drivers in regions with severe winter conditions.

Spec scoreestimated
Details
2 models

Best Max Performance Summer Tires in 205/50R16

All Max Performance Summer tires
Kumho Ecsta PS31Performance

The Kumho Ecsta PS31 is a strong contender for drivers focused on dry performance, with perfect scores in dry grip and handling.

  • Dry grip and handling both score a perfect 10, outperforming the category average dry grip of 8.7.
  • Treadwear warranty of 45,000 miles exceeds the category average of 37,754 miles, offering a longer lifespan than many competitors.

Wet grip performance is not as strong as some competitors, which could be a concern in regions with frequent rain.

Treadwear 460Traction A
Spec score71estimated
Details

The Firehawk Indy 500 is a compelling choice for drivers who prioritize dry grip and handling.

  • Perfect dry grip score of 10, surpassing the category average of 8.7, ideal for spirited driving in dry conditions.
  • Handling also scores a perfect 10, making it a strong choice for drivers who prioritize responsive steering and cornering.

Limited wet grip performance compared to competitors like the Pirelli P Zero (PZ4), which could affect confidence in rainy conditions.

Treadwear 340Traction A
Spec score67estimated
Details
Fitment

Vehicles Using 205/50R16

+ 12 more vehicles use this size

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Popular Brands in 205/50R16

Size decoded

What 205/50R16 Means

205/50R16 designates a tire 205 mm (8.1") wide with a sidewall 50% as tall as it is wide — about 103 mm (4.0") — mounted on a 16-inch wheel. That works out to an overall diameter of roughly 24.1", a circumference of about 75.6", and approximately 838 revolutions per mile. Exact figures vary slightly by manufacturer and tread design.

103 mm

Sidewall height

24.1"

Overall diameter

75.6"

Circumference

838

Revs per mile

Of the 40 205/50R16 tire models we track, the most common category is performance all-season (11 models), followed by ultra high performance summer (9) — a good indicator of the kind of vehicles and driving this size is designed for.

Before you buy

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 205/50R16 mean?
205/50R16 breaks down as follows: 205mm 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 205/50R16 tires?
205/50R16 is a common fitment for vehicles like the 2015 Mazda Miata, 2014 Mazda Miata, 2013 Mazda Miata, 2012 Mazda Miata and others. Always confirm your specific trim's fitment before purchasing.
How tall is a 205/50R16 tire?
A 205/50R16 tire has a sidewall height of about 103 mm (4.0") and an overall diameter of roughly 24.1", turning approximately 838 revolutions per mile. Actual dimensions vary slightly by manufacturer and model, so confirm against your vehicle's placard before changing sizes.

205/50R16 Research Guides

Confirm 205/50R16 fits your vehicle

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