Hi, I have a 1997 Civic coupe, I just got some 1999 SI 15" rims. The ride is at stock height and will remain there.

I am thinking of 205/50/15 but will there be a nasty gap compared to 195/55/15

All help is appreciated, thanks

 

There's really no difference in sidewall height there. Here's a good calculator: http://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html

 

Yup. The difference in diameter between those sizes is .37 inch, so the difference in gap is only .19 inch. To put this into perspective, the difference in diameter between a tire that is new, and one that is worn and ready for replacement is .50, so that difference in gap is .25 inch.

Bottom line, you can use either size on your car with no significant ill effects either way.