1927 DuPont E Tires

The 1927 DuPont E uses two primary tire sizes: 32X6.20 and 650-20. Both are bias-ply fitments, and both are associated with this model, so the correct choice depends on the wheel and tire setup currently on the car rather than assuming one size applies to every surviving example.

Many antique cars have been restored, re-rimmed, or updated during their lives, so it is worth confirming what is actually mounted before ordering tires. Checking the wheel diameter, the existing tire markings, and the overall presentation you want for the car will help determine whether the antique 32X6.20 format or the numeric 650-20 size is the better match.

The 1927 DuPont E uses a 20-inch rim with its primary tire fitments. The 650-20 size directly identifies a 20-inch rim, and the vehicle's covered fitment centers around that same rim diameter across the available tire choices.

Rim diameter should be confirmed on the actual car before choosing between 32X6.20 and 650-20, especially on an antique vehicle that may have had wheels changed long ago. A tire can have the right vintage look and still be wrong for the wheel, so checking both rim diameter and usable wheel width is an important step before installation.

On a 1927 DuPont E, 32X6.20 is an antique diameter-by-section tire size. The 32 refers to the tire's approximate overall diameter in inches, while 6.20 refers to its approximate section width, which is a very different sizing style from later numeric bias-ply sizes like 650-20.

That older format matters because it reflects how many late-1920s tires were identified and helps guide a more period-style restoration. It also means the buyer should not compare it to modern sizing by rim number alone. The safest approach is to verify the wheel setup already on the car and match the tire format to that existing configuration.

Choosing a 650-20 tire for a 1927 DuPont E starts with confirming that the car is actually set up for the numeric bias-ply 650-20 size on a 20-inch rim. From there, the main differences come down to brand, tire series, sidewall style, stated rim-width range where available, and whether the tire leans more toward passenger-car or truck-style presentation.

Firestone offers both blackwall and wide whitewall versions in its classic bias-ply line, while Denman and Deka options bring more truck-oriented character in blackwall form. The right choice depends on how the car is being finished and used. A formal restoration may favor whitewall styling, while a more utilitarian look may point toward blackwall or truck-tread-inspired options.

For the 1927 DuPont E, the available 650-20 tire choices include blackwall and wide whitewall sidewall styles. Blackwall is the more common presentation across the listed options, while a Firestone 3.75 inch whitewall gives the car a more formal and visually prominent vintage look.

Sidewall choice has a strong effect on the finished appearance of an antique luxury car, so it is worth deciding whether the goal is understated road use or a more dressy show-oriented presentation. The sidewall should still be chosen within the correct tire size and wheel setup, since visual preference does not override the need for proper fitment.

The 1927 DuPont E has available 650-20 tire options from Firestone, Denman, and Deka. Those choices include Firestone Classic Bias Ply and Classic Truck offerings, along with Denman Highway Classic Truck and Deka Classic Truck lines in blackwall form, plus a Firestone wide whitewall option.

Brand selection is only one part of the decision on a car like this. It helps to compare the visual style, intended character of the tire series, and any stated wheel-width details before choosing. That approach keeps the decision focused on how the tire suits the DuPont's restoration direction and existing wheel setup rather than choosing by name alone.

A period-style 1927 DuPont E should begin with one of its correct bias-ply fitment sizes, either 32X6.20 or 650-20, depending on the wheel setup currently on the car. Bias-ply construction preserves the visual character and sizing language expected on a vehicle from the late 1920s, which is especially important on a formal luxury automobile.

The next decision is appearance. A blackwall tire gives a restrained traditional look, while the 650-20 Firestone wide whitewall creates a more dressy and prominent presentation. If exact historical originality matters beyond general period style, it is worth comparing the finished car against marque references, period photos, and restoration documentation before making the final choice.

Tire construction affects the look of a restored 1927 DuPont E because bias-ply tires carry the proportions and visual character associated with the car's original era. On a late-1920s vehicle, that construction helps maintain the tall, formal stance and traditional presentation expected from an antique luxury car.

Appearance is not just about blackwall versus whitewall. The sizing format itself also influences how authentic the finished car feels, especially when comparing 32X6.20 and 650-20 setups. A well-restored DuPont benefits from a tire choice that matches its wheels, body presence, and restoration theme, rather than selecting strictly on availability or modern visual preference.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1927 DuPont E, especially because antique cars are often restored over many decades with replacement wheels, altered ride height, or non-original chassis components. Even when the vehicle is associated with 32X6.20 and 650-20 bias-ply tires, the current wheel and body setup should always be checked first.

A change in wheel width, rim profile, suspension height, or fender clearance can influence which tire size works best on the car today. That is why it helps to inspect the existing wheel markings, measure available space around the tire, and compare the mounted setup carefully before choosing a tire simply because it matches the model's known vintage fitment.

Before driving a 1927 DuPont E on new tires, inspect the wheels, valve hardware, and mounting surfaces, then make sure the tires are properly seated and inflated for their intended use. It is also wise to look over the steering, suspension, and brake system, since a fresh set of tires cannot compensate for mechanical issues on an antique car.

A short shakedown run should include checking for rubbing, uneven steering feel, vibration, and any sign of air loss after the first miles. Antique vehicles often sit for long periods, so this is also a good time to inspect the rest of the car for dried rubber parts, loose fasteners, or wheel condition that could affect safe and stable road use.

650-20 tires on a collector 1927 DuPont E should be maintained with regular pressure checks, visual inspections, and careful storage habits. Look for cracking, cuts, bulges, uneven wear, or slow air loss, especially if the car is only driven occasionally and spends long periods parked between events or short tours.

Storage conditions matter on a collector car. Keeping the DuPont away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, standing moisture, and ozone sources can help preserve the tires' condition over time. It also helps to move the car periodically or relieve prolonged static loading, since antique vehicles with infrequent use can develop tire issues even when tread wear is minimal.