Here are a few reasons why it's not advisable to use 205 60 R 16 tires in place of 50R tires:
1. Different Overall Diameter: The aspect ratio of a tire represents the percentage of the tire's width that makes up its sidewall height. A tire with an aspect ratio of 50 has a sidewall height that is 50% of the tire's width, while a tire with an aspect ratio of 60 has a sidewall height that is 60% of its width. This means that the overall diameter of a 205 60 R 16 tire will be larger than that of a 50R tire with the same width.
2. Impact on Handling: The larger overall diameter of the 205 60 R 16 tire will affect the vehicle's handling. The taller sidewalls will make the tire more flexible, which can result in less responsive steering and a decrease in overall stability. Additionally, the larger diameter may cause the tire to rub against the wheel well or other components of the vehicle, which can lead to premature wear or damage.
3. Speedometer and Odometer Inaccuracy: The difference in the overall diameter of the tires will also cause the speedometer and odometer to provide inaccurate readings. The speedometer will read a lower speed than the actual speed of the vehicle, while the odometer will record a shorter distance than the actual distance traveled. This can lead to safety issues, such as driving at a speed that is faster than the posted limit or running out of fuel before reaching the intended destination.
4. Potential Legal Issues: In some jurisdictions, it may be illegal to use tires that are not the correct size for the vehicle. This can result in fines or other penalties, as well as voiding the vehicle's warranty or insurance coverage.
For all these reasons, it is strongly recommended to use the tire size specified by the vehicle manufacturer. Using tires that are not the correct size can compromise the safety and performance of the vehicle. If you are unsure of the correct tire size for your vehicle, consult with a professional or refer to the vehicle's owner's manual.