I was looking into getting 215/60R16 tires instead of 215/70r16 tires for my 2006 Honda Element.

The 60 and 70 in the size is the profile. aka aspect ratio. It is the % of tire width. So going from 70% of 215 to 60% of 215, (70% of 215 mm is 150.5 mm tall,) 60% of 215 mm is 129 mm tall. a 21.5 mm difference, converted to inches 0.85" shorter in height..less than one inch. Now, for each turn of the tire you will travel ( I have to find the formula to be exact) but you will travel a less distance than with the taller= larger diameter=circumference wheel/tire. That effects your gear ratios in every gear, including final drive ratio, speedometer, odometer. Speedometer will show a faster speed than actually going, and odometer will count more miles. 65 mph on speedometer is 61 mph true speed

Thank you so much for your help. Sounds like its better to keep with the same size tire.

Tire revolutions per mile (now) 724-- w/60's -771...6.5% diff. Just presenting the info for what it is, not trying to influence you..your car your call. I have seen much more extreme changes. Happy motoring moe!

your car is big- and should have big tires and wheels- for rough roads and off-roading- that's what the element is made for- 60 series tires and smaller (50,40,30) are for racy sports cars because less sidewall means they corner better- you want taller tires to absorb shocks better-