Tire Scouter

255/50R16 tires

Compare 6 models made in this size across 1 category, 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 255/50R16

Toyo Proxes RA1

  • Ultra high performance summer

Best for wet-weather enthusiasts.

The Toyo Proxes RA1 is a solid choice for those who prioritize wet grip, with a score of 9 that exceeds the ultra-high-performance summer category average.

  • Wet grip score of 9 is well above the category average of 7.6, making it a strong performer in rainy conditions.
  • Dry grip and handling both score 8, providing reliable performance for spirited driving.
  • Comfort and noise scores align with the category averages, ensuring a balanced ride for a performance tire.
Full analysis

The highest spec score among ultra high performance summer tires in this size that we have analysis for, the most common category for 255/50R16.

77Strong
None listed
100
AA
Z · 149+ mph

Every scale below runs from the lowest to the highest spec score among the 6 scored tires in 255/50R16 (42 to 77).

Best ultra high performance summer tires in 255/50R16

6 models, highest spec score first.

All ultra high performance summer tires

  1. Toyo Proxes RA1

    Best for wet-weather enthusiasts.

    77StrongFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    100
    Traction
    AA
    Speed rating
    Z · 149+ mph
    • Wet grip score of 9 is well above the category average of 7.6, making it a strong performer in rainy conditions.
    • Dry grip and handling both score 8, providing reliable performance for spirited driving.
    • The lack of a treadwear warranty and low UTQG treadwear rating mean frequent replacements, raising long-term costs.

  2. 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.

  3. Michelin Pilot Sport

    Best for wet weather enthusiasts.

    65Good
    Warranty
    20k mi
    Treadwear
    220
    Traction
    AA
    Speed rating
    Y · 186 mph
    • Wet grip score of 9 significantly exceeds the category average of 7.6, making it a strong performer in rainy conditions.
    • Handling score of 8 aligns with the category's focus on responsive driving dynamics.
    • Lower dry grip performance compared to category leaders may not satisfy track-focused drivers.

  4. Hoosier R7

    Best for track-day enthusiasts.

    52FairFrom 4 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    40
    Traction
    C
    Speed rating
    W · 168 mph
    • Dry grip and handling scores of 8 make it a solid choice for track enthusiasts seeking sharp cornering and control.
    • Comfort and noise levels are on par with category averages, making it more livable than some other track-focused options.
    • Poor wet grip and no treadwear warranty make it unsuitable for those who need reliable performance in rain or want a longer-lasting tire.
Show 2 more ultra high performance summer tires

  1. Toyo Proxes TQ

    Best for dry-weather enthusiasts.

    55FairFrom 2 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    Not graded
    Traction
    B
    Speed rating
    Not listed

  2. Hoosier D.O.T. Drag Radial 2

    Best for drag racing enthusiasts.

    42FairFrom 3 of 5 specs
    Warranty
    None listed
    Treadwear
    40
    Traction
    C
    Speed rating
    Not listed

Vehicles that use 255/50R16

A sample of recent vehicles whose factory front size is 255/50R16. Sizes can vary by trim, so confirm yours before you buy.

  • 1988 Chevrolet Corvette
  • 1987 Chevrolet Corvette
  • 1986 Chevrolet Corvette
  • 1985 Chevrolet Corvette
  • 1984 Chevrolet Corvette

Popular brands in 255/50R16

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

What 255/50R16 means

255/50R16 designates a tire 255 mm (10.0") wide with a sidewall 50% as tall as it is wide — about 128 mm (5.0") — mounted on a 16-inch wheel. That works out to an overall diameter of roughly 26.0", a circumference of about 81.8", and approximately 775 revolutions per mile. Exact figures vary slightly by manufacturer and tread design.

Of the 6 255/50R16 tire models we track, the most common category is ultra high performance summer (6 models) — a good indicator of the kind of vehicles and driving this size is designed for.

Sidewall height
128 mm
Overall diameter
26.0 in
Circumference
81.8 in
Revs per mile
775

Frequently asked questions

What does 255/50R16 mean?

255/50R16 breaks down as follows: 255mm 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 255/50R16 tires?

255/50R16 is a common fitment for vehicles like the 1988 Chevrolet Corvette, 1987 Chevrolet Corvette, 1986 Chevrolet Corvette, 1985 Chevrolet Corvette and others. Always confirm your specific trim's fitment before purchasing.

How tall is a 255/50R16 tire?

A 255/50R16 tire has a sidewall height of about 128 mm (5.0") and an overall diameter of roughly 26.0", turning approximately 775 revolutions per mile. Actual dimensions vary slightly by manufacturer and model, so confirm against your vehicle's placard before changing sizes.

255/50R16 research guides

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

Speed rating chart

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

Read the guide

Changing tire size

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

Read the guide

Confirm 255/50R16 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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