For
W = section width (mm)
p = profile (%)
d = rim diameter (in.)
D = tire Diameter (.in)

(W * p / 1270) + d = D

Example:

P215/55R16

W = 215
p = 55
d = 16

(215 * 55 / 1270) + 16 = 25.31

D = 25.31 in.

(constant 1270 just comprises the % to ratio conversion, mm to inch conversion, and 2x the profile for radius to diameter conversion, 100*25.4/2=1270.)

 

When changing tire size, keep in mind that the manufactures typically specify a min/max rim width for each tire. I find it convenient to look that up at Tirerack.com. They usually list the specifications for all sizes of a particular design.

https://www.tirerack.com/tires/Spec....n+4&isSEO=true

 

I always got 215X60 because they are cheaper than 55s. I did notice a tiny bit if wear on the inside of the tread from touching the strut, not enough to worry about, just a scrubbing.
This site has an interesting chart.
Metric Tire Conversion (tiresize.com)

 

You can get a "taller" tire and maintain stock tire diameter by getting smaller wheels (rims) just make sure they clear the calipers and all.

 

YIKES! OK just yikes. Or huh.
Maybe you’d like 205/60R16. Still bigger than stock, just not as much. Have had 2 sets, liked that the speedo accuracy actually improved. (And they were also cheaper, which is why I looked at them in the 1st place. Vendor resisted, then claimed to have gotten approval from GM, with the proviso of adding 3 psi.)

In a discussion elsewhere a guy was complaining about vibration and intermittent pulling. When asked about tires size he was sure it was fine. He posted a pic to prove clearance but it also showed a nice shallow hollow on the tread where it had been intermittently contacting the perch. A matchbook cover of clearance is not nearly enough. The tread moves around relative to the tire center.

215/55R16 25.31
205/60R16 25.69
215/60R16 26.16

 

I got 225's on the back. Eventually when I see how the suspension works out with a few inches of lift. I think the Hot Wheels look would be awesome on the HHR

 

I run 225.50/17's since about 2010.............The 215/50/17's seemed too puny imo..

 

Need tires for my 2011 17” Summer setup, thinking about that size, would expect slightly slower acceleration, wondering how hard it is to correct the speedo calibration.

The irony of improving looks by spending more money to increase unsprung weight and rotary inertia, raise the center of gravity, and go slower…

 

IIRC the difference was almost negligible, Was less than 2 mph faster than speed-0 .... So mine remains like that..

 

A comprehensive list! Thanks!