Navigate classic to modern tire conversion with our comprehensive cross-reference chart
One of the most challenging aspects of classic car restoration or maintenance is understanding how vintage tire sizes translate to modern equivalents. Whether you're working on a 1950s American classic with wide whitewalls or a 1960s European sports car, finding the correct tire size is crucial for both authenticity and proper vehicle handling. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the sometimes confusing world of tire sizing across different eras and measurement systems.
Before diving into specific conversions, it's important to understand the three primary tire sizing systems you'll encounter when working with vintage and classic vehicles:
This oldest sizing convention was common from the early automotive era through the 1970s. Examples include:
These vintage sizes frequently came in distinctive whitewall options that defined classic automotive styling for decades.
Used primarily on European vehicles, with measurements in millimeters. Examples include:
These sizes were often available with narrow whitewalls for certain luxury European models.
The current standard for passenger vehicles in North America. Examples include:
Modern whitewall tires in these sizes are available for restorations that prioritize improved handling over absolute authenticity.
The following chart provides cross-references between common vintage sizes and their modern equivalents. Note that these are approximate equivalents and may vary slightly in overall diameter or width:
| Vintage/Classic Size | Modern Equivalent | Approx. Overall Diameter | Common Vehicle Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6.00-16 | 185/85R16 or P195/75R16 | 27.9" | 1930s-1950s American Cars, Early Trucks |
| 6.50-16 | 205/85R16 or P215/75R16 | 29.0" | 1940s-1950s American Sedans, Pickups |
| 7.00-15 | P215/75R15 | 28.3" | 1950s Buick, Chevrolet, Ford |
| 7.10-15 | P215/75R15 or P225/75R15 | 28.4" | 1950s Cadillac, Lincoln, Chrysler |
| 7.60-15 | P225/75R15 | 29.0" | 1950s-1960s Full Size Luxury Cars |
| 8.00-15 | P235/75R15 | 29.8" | 1950s Cadillac, Lincoln Continental |
| 8.20-15 | P235/75R15 or P245/75R15 | 30.0" | 1957-1958 Cadillac Eldorado |
| E78-14 | P195/75R14 | 26.1" | 1960s-1970s Compact/Intermediate Cars |
| F78-14 | P205/75R14 | 26.7" | 1960s-1970s Intermediate American Cars |
| G78-14 | P215/75R14 | 27.3" | 1960s-1970s Intermediate/Full Size Cars |
| G78-15 | P215/75R15 | 28.3" | 1960s-1970s Full Size American Cars |
| H78-15 | P225/75R15 | 28.9" | 1960s-1970s Full Size Luxury Cars |
| L78-15 | P235/75R15 | 29.5" | 1960s-1970s Premium/Performance Cars |
| 165R15 | P165/80R15 | 26.0" | MG, Triumph, Early Porsche |
| 185R14 | P185/80R14 | 26.0" | Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar |
| 560-15 | P155/80R15 | 25.6" | VW Beetle, Porsche 356 |
| 590-15 | P165/80R15 | 26.0" | Porsche 356, Alfa Romeo |
| 600-15 | P165/80R15 or P175/80R15 | 26.4" | European Sports Cars, Jaguar XK |
| 640-15 | P185/80R15 | 27.1" | Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz Sedans |
When seeking whitewall tires for your classic restoration, there are several important factors to consider beyond just matching size equivalents:
Original whitewall tires came in various band widths that changed by era:
For authentic restorations, it's important to match not just the tire size but also the correct whitewall width for your vehicle's specific year and model.
Original classic cars came equipped with bias ply tires, while most modern equivalents are radial construction. This presents a choice:
Your choice should be guided by whether your priority is absolute authenticity or improved drivability for your classic vehicle.
If you're uncertain about your car's original tire size, you can take measurements from existing tires or wheels:
With these measurements, you can better match your vehicle to the appropriate size in the cross-reference chart.
When selecting modern equivalents for vintage tire sizes, several factors should be considered:
The most critical dimension to maintain is the overall diameter, which affects:
For most applications, stay within 3% of the original overall diameter to avoid these issues.
The tire's width affects:
For authentic restorations, matching the original section width is important for both appearance and proper fitment.
Always ensure your replacement tires meet or exceed the load rating required for your vehicle. Classic American cars, particularly from the 1950s-1960s, are often considerably heavier than modern vehicles and require appropriate load capacity.
Some vintage vehicles require very specific tire sizes that may not have direct modern equivalents:
For these applications, consulting with a specialist in vintage tires is often the best approach to find the correct modern equivalent or authentic reproduction.
When selecting tires for your classic vehicle, you'll need to determine your priorities:
By understanding these cross-reference basics and considering your specific needs, you can select the ideal whitewall tires that balance period-correct appearance with the performance characteristics appropriate for how you use your classic vehicle.
Remember that while this guide provides general cross-reference information, consulting with specialists in vintage tires is always recommended for specific applications or concours-level restorations where absolute authenticity is required.
Discover our complete selection of authentic whitewall tires for both classic and contemporary applications.
Shop Whitewall Tires