195/50R16 tires: size explained

A tire size describes the tire's shape and the wheel it fits. It says nothing about load capacity or speed capability, which are printed separately on the sidewall.

No letterEuro-metric

With no letter in front of the width, this is a Euro-metric size (also called hard metric). It has the same dimensions as the P-metric version but is built to a different load standard, so its load capacity can differ.

195Section width

The tire's width is 195 millimeters (7.7 in), measured from sidewall to sidewall.

50Aspect ratio

The sidewall height is 50% of the width. For 195 mm that is about 3.8 in (98 mm). A smaller number means a shorter sidewall.

RRadial construction

R means radial construction, where the internal cords run across the tire from one edge to the other.

16Wheel (rim) diameter

The tire is made for a wheel 16 inches across. Its overall diameter is larger: about 23.7 in (601 mm).

These are nominal design dimensions. Real tires vary by brand, tread depth, wheel width, load and pressure.

These vehicles list 195/50R16 among their verified sizes, by trim. Open one to see all of its sizes.

• 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport
• 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport
• 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport

Confirm the size on your tire sidewall or door placard first. These links open each store's own search for 195/50R16; prices and stock are on their sites.

Where winter roads call for extra traction, chains and tire socks are two options that fit over your tires. They are made for specific tire sizes, so these links open Amazon searches for 195/50R16. Whether they suit your vehicle depends on its clearance and the local rules.

Paid links to Amazon search results. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Read our affiliate disclosure.

Before you buy

• Chains and socks are sold by tire size, so match the size on your sidewall exactly.
• Check your owner's manual first: many newer cars and SUVs limit or prohibit chains, or require low-profile (often called SAE Class S) chains because of tight wheel-well clearance.
• Tire socks are a lighter-duty option; check your state's rules, because some areas only accept chains when chain controls are in effect.
• Put them on the drive wheels (or as your manual says) and follow the maker's speed limit.

None of the common sizes we list are within about 3% of the overall diameter of 195/50R16. A common rule of thumb is to keep a replacement size within about 3% of the original overall diameter. Confirm any size change with your vehicle's owner's manual or a tire professional.

Side-by-side dimensions and speedometer difference for sizes close to 195/50R16 in overall diameter.

• 185/60R15 vs 195/50R16+0.27% taller than 195/50R16
• 185/55R16 vs 195/50R16+1.41% taller than 195/50R16
• 195/50R16 vs 205/45R17+2.48% taller than 195/50R16

See how another size differs in height, width, sidewall and speedometer reading in the tire size calculator.