The only scenario where narrower tire will be better is if you are in very deep snow and trying to cut through it to reach the pavement below. But the problem is that if you get into deep snow, you'll most likely be plowing it with your bumper so you'll get stuck anyway.well say it is the same tire model/tread pattern and rubber compound?
I am talking snows vs snows, same tire just different sizes with 1 being .4" (5%) narrower?
On the other hand, narrower tires sacrifice dry traction and braking performance.
You are overthinking this, IMO. If TireRack thought that 195/60/16 was a good idea for your car, they'd be listing this size as an option.