Tire Scouter

205/50R16 tires

Compare 40 models made in this size across 6 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

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Our top pick in 205/50R16

Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus

  • Performance all-season

Best for high-mileage drivers.

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.
Full analysis

The highest spec score among performance all-season tires in this size that we have analysis for, the most common category for 205/50R16.

79Strong
50k mi
560
AA
W · 168 mph

Every scale below runs from the lowest to the highest spec score among the 38 scored tires in 205/50R16 (53 to 79).

Best performance all-season tires in 205/50R16

11 models, highest spec score first.

All performance all-season tires

  1. Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus

    Best for high-mileage drivers.

    79Strong
    Warranty
    50k mi
    Treadwear
    560
    Traction
    AA
    Speed rating
    W · 168 mph
    • 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.

  2. General G-MAX AS-07

    Best for budget-conscious performance drivers.

    78Strong
    Warranty
    50k mi
    Treadwear
    500
    Traction
    AA
    Speed rating
    W · 168 mph
    • 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.

  3. Falken ZIEX ZE950 A/S

    Best for long-distance commuters.

    78StrongFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    600
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph
    • 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.

  4. Nitto Neo Gen

    Best for enthusiastic drivers.

    77StrongFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    280
    Traction
    AA
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph
    • 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.
Show 7 more performance all-season tires

  1. Sumitomo HTR A/S P03

    Best for budget-conscious performance drivers.

    76Strong
    Warranty
    65k mi
    Treadwear
    640
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph

  2. Kumho Ecsta PA51

    Best for enthusiast drivers.

    75Strong
    Warranty
    45k mi
    Treadwear
    500
    Traction
    AA
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph

  3. Hankook Ventus V2 concept2

    Best for rainy climate drivers.

    75Strong
    Warranty
    45k mi
    Treadwear
    500
    Traction
    AA
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph

  4. Riken Raptor ZR A/S

    Best for budget-conscious performance drivers.

    71GoodFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    300
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    W · 168 mph

  5. BFGoodrich g-Force COMP-2 A/S PLUS

    Best for enthusiastic drivers.

    69Good
    Warranty
    45k mi
    Treadwear
    400
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    W · 168 mph

  6. Toyo Extensa HP II

    Best for budget-conscious drivers.

    69Good
    Warranty
    45k mi
    Treadwear
    500
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph

  7. Road Hugger GTP AS/02

    Best for dry-weather enthusiasts.

    70GoodFrom 3 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    60k mi
    Treadwear
    550
    Traction
    Not graded
    Speed rating
    W · 168 mph

Best ultra high performance summer tires in 205/50R16

9 models, highest spec score first.

All ultra high performance summer tires

  1. Toyo Proxes R888R

    Best for track enthusiasts.

    77StrongFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    100
    Traction
    AA
    Speed rating
    W · 168 mph
    • 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.

  2. Toyo Proxes R1R

    Best for enthusiasts in wet climates.

    74StrongFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    200
    Traction
    AA
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph
    • 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.

  3. Yokohama ADVAN NEOVA AD09

    Best for enthusiast drivers.

    74StrongFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    200
    Traction
    AA
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph
    • 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.

  4. Dunlop Direzza ZIII

    Best for enthusiast drivers.

    68GoodFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    200
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    W · 168 mph
    • 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.
Show 5 more ultra high performance summer tires

  1. Yokohama ADVAN A11A

    Best for enthusiasts on a budget.

    68GoodFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    280
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph

  2. Yokohama ADVAN A052

    Best for track enthusiasts.

    68GoodFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    200
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    W · 168 mph

  3. Bridgestone Potenza RE-71RS

    Best for weekend track enthusiasts.

    66GoodFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    200
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph

  4. Toyo Proxes Sport A/S

    66GoodFrom 2 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    50k mi
    Treadwear
    Not graded
    Traction
    Not graded
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph

  5. Sentury UHP

    Best for dry-weather enthusiasts.

    55FairFrom 3 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    40k mi
    Treadwear
    450
    Traction
    Not graded
    Speed rating
    H · 130 mph

Best touring all-season tires in 205/50R16

8 models, highest spec score first.

All touring all-season tires

  1. Nexen N Priz AH8

    Best for long-distance commuters.

    75Strong
    Warranty
    75k mi
    Treadwear
    500
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph
    • 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.

  2. Uniroyal Tiger Paw Touring A/S

    Best for daily drivers seeking balanced performance.

    74Strong
    Warranty
    75k mi
    Treadwear
    500
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    H · 130 mph
    • 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.

  3. Westlake RP18

    Best for budget-conscious drivers.

    72StrongFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    45k mi
    Treadwear
    500
    Traction
    AA
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph
    • 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.

  4. BFGoodrich Advantage Control

    Best for long-distance commuters.

    71Good
    Warranty
    65k mi
    Treadwear
    700
    Traction
    B
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph
    • Above-average dry grip with a score of 8.5, surpassing the category average of 7.8.
    • Treadlife warranty of 65,000 miles is slightly above the category average, promising decent longevity.
    • Subpar wet grip performance compared to category peers, which could be a concern in regions with frequent rain.
Show 4 more touring all-season tires

  1. Goodyear Assurance All-Season

    Best for long-distance commuters.

    70Good
    Warranty
    65k mi
    Treadwear
    600
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    H · 130 mph

  2. Firestone All Season

    Best for daily commuters.

    69Good
    Warranty
    65k mi
    Treadwear
    560
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    H · 130 mph

  3. Advanta ER-800

    Best for budget-conscious drivers.

    67Good
    Warranty
    45k mi
    Treadwear
    420
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph

  4. Kelly Edge Touring A/S

    Best for budget-conscious drivers.

    71GoodFrom 2 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    65k mi
    Treadwear
    Not graded
    Traction
    Not graded
    Speed rating
    H · 130 mph

Best grand touring all-season tires in 205/50R16

7 models, highest spec score first.

All grand touring all-season tires

  1. General AltiMAX RT45

    Best for long-distance commuters.

    79Strong
    Warranty
    75k mi
    Treadwear
    700
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    H · 130 mph
    • 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.

  2. Yokohama AVID Ascend GT

    Best for long-distance commuters.

    79Strong
    Warranty
    65k mi
    Treadwear
    740
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph
    • 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.

  3. Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S

    Best for comfort-focused drivers.

    76Strong
    Warranty
    65k mi
    Treadwear
    640
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph
    • 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.

  4. Falken Sincera SN250 A/S

    Best for long-distance commuters.

    74Strong
    Warranty
    80k mi
    Treadwear
    720
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    T · 118 mph
    • 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.
Show 3 more grand touring all-season tires

  1. Fuzion Touring

    Best for comfort-focused drivers.

    73Strong
    Warranty
    55k mi
    Treadwear
    600
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph

  2. Vredestein Quatrac

    Severe-snow rated

    Best for comfort-focused drivers.

    69Good
    Warranty
    55k mi
    Treadwear
    400
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph

  3. Laufenn G FIT AS

    Best for budget-conscious drivers.

    69Good
    Warranty
    45k mi
    Treadwear
    500
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph

Best winter tires in 205/50R16

3 models, highest spec score first.

All winter tires

  1. Michelin X-Ice Snow

    Severe-snow rated

    Best for drivers prioritizing dry grip.

    53FairFrom 3 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    40k mi
    Treadwear
    400
    Traction
    Not graded
    Speed rating
    H · 130 mph
    • 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.

  2. Firestone Winterforce 2

    Severe-snow rated

    Best for budget-conscious winter drivers.

    Not enough spec data
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    Not graded
    Traction
    Not graded
    Speed rating
    S · 112 mph
    • 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.

  3. Hankook Winter i Pike RS2

    Best for budget-conscious winter drivers.

    Not enough spec data
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    Not graded
    Traction
    Not graded
    Speed rating
    V · 149 mph
    • 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.

Best max performance summer tires in 205/50R16

2 models, highest spec score first.

All max performance summer tires

  1. Kumho Ecsta PS31

    Best for dry-weather enthusiasts.

    76StrongFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    460
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    W · 168 mph
    • 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.

  2. Firestone Firehawk Indy 500

    Best for dry performance enthusiasts.

    72StrongFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    340
    Traction
    A
    Speed rating
    W · 168 mph
    • 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.

Vehicles that use 205/50R16

A sample of recent vehicles whose factory front size is 205/50R16. Sizes can vary by trim, so confirm yours before you buy.

  • 2015 Mazda Miata
  • 2014 Mazda Miata
  • 2013 Mazda Miata
  • 2012 Mazda Miata
  • 2011 Ford Focus
  • 2011 Mazda Miata
  • 2010 Ford Focus
  • 2010 Mazda Miata
  • 2009 Ford Focus
  • 2009 Kia Spectra
  • 2009 Kia Spectra5
  • 2009 Mazda Miata

Showing 12 of the most recent.

Popular brands in 205/50R16

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

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.

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.

Sidewall height
103 mm
Overall diameter
24.1 in
Circumference
75.6 in
Revs per mile
838

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

Speed rating chart

A practical chart for common tire speed ratings and what they mean for everyday driving.

Read the guide

Summer vs all-season tires

Where summer tires lose grip, the cold-cracking risk, and what all-season tires trade for their range.

Read the guide

Changing tire size

Plus-sizing and alternate sizes: diameter limits, load and speed ratings, and speedometer error.

Read the guide

Confirm 205/50R16 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.

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