1935 Packard 120 Series Tires

The 1935 Packard 120 Series uses a 700-16 tire size. That is a vintage numeric bias-ply size mounted on a 16-inch rim, and it is the primary fitment for the covered 8 Cyl. sub-model as well.

Using the correct size is the first step, but older cars are often changed over time. A careful check of the wheel diameter, wheel width, and the actual tire size already on the car helps confirm that the Packard still matches its intended setup before a replacement tire is chosen.

The 1935 Packard 120 Series uses a 16-inch rim with its 700-16 tire fitment. Several available 700-16 products also note rim-width compatibility in the 4.50 to 5.50 inch range, which is useful when the car is being reassembled or corrected.

Rim diameter must match the tire size exactly, so a 16-inch wheel is essential for 700-16 tires. It is also worth measuring wheel width on an older restoration, since replacement wheels, later service parts, or prior modifications can change how a vintage bias-ply tire sits and clears.

Yes. The covered 1935 Packard 120 Series 8 Cyl. uses the same 700-16 bias-ply tire size as the model core. That keeps fitment simple because there is not a second primary passenger-car size to sort through on this application.

Even with shared fitment, the tire decision is not completely automatic. The remaining choices involve sidewall style, tire series, and making sure the car still has the correct 16-inch wheels, especially if it has been restored long ago or fitted with replacement wheels during its life.

Start with the correct 700-16 size and a bias-ply construction that matches the Packard’s primary fitment. From there, compare sidewall style, tire series, brand, rim-width suitability, and whether the tire is a passenger-style classic design or a more truck- or military-oriented pattern.

The right choice depends on how the car is presented and used. A formal prewar restoration may lean toward a wide whitewall appearance, while a road-driven car may simply need the right vintage look on the correct wheel. Wheel width and the car’s current setup should be checked before final selection.

700-16 tires for the 1935 Packard 120 Series are available in both blackwall and wide whitewall styles. That gives owners a meaningful visual choice while staying within the correct primary size for the car.

Sidewall treatment has a major effect on how a prewar Packard presents. Wide whitewalls typically create a more formal restoration-oriented appearance, while blackwalls deliver a plainer, more utilitarian look. The best choice depends on the car’s finish, trim level, and the kind of period-style presentation the owner wants to achieve.

Available 700-16 tires for the 1935 Packard 120 Series come from Lester, Avon, BFGoodrich, Firestone, Tornel, and STA. Those brands appear across several classic bias-ply and specialty vintage-style series within the correct rim diameter.

Brand alone should not drive the decision. It makes more sense to compare the actual tire type, sidewall presentation, rim-width suitability, and whether the tread style matches the car’s intended use. A passenger-car restoration goal calls for different priorities than a utility-focused or military-style 700-16 selection.

A period-style 1935 Packard 120 Series should begin with the correct 700-16 bias-ply fitment on a 16-inch rim. Within that size, the most restoration-oriented choices are usually classic passenger-car bias-ply tires rather than military or truck-style 700-16 designs.

Appearance details matter on a prewar Packard, especially sidewall treatment and overall tread character. Wide whitewall options can create a more formal look, while blackwalls keep the presentation simpler. When exact originality is important, compare the tire choice with marque literature, period photos, or Packard club guidance before finalizing the car.

The primary fitment for a 1935 Packard 120 Series is bias-ply, and that construction plays a big role in the car’s prewar visual character. Sidewall shape, tread style, and overall stance all contribute to the traditional look owners usually expect from a restored Packard.

Construction also influences how authentic the finished car appears when viewed next to its wheels, trim, and body lines. Even within the same 700-16 size, a wide whitewall passenger tire presents very differently from a plain blackwall or a military-style pattern, so appearance should be considered as carefully as fitment.

Yes. Even though the correct primary fitment is 700-16 on a 16-inch rim, modifications can change how that tire works on the car. Replacement wheels, altered wheel width, brake conversions, suspension changes, or body repairs can all affect clearance and tire seating.

A Packard that has been restored or updated over many decades may not still match its original wheel setup. Measuring the actual wheel diameter and width, then checking steering clearance and fender space at full lock and full suspension movement, helps avoid surprises before a new set is installed.

Before road use, inspect the wheels for condition, confirm the rims are the correct 16-inch diameter, and make sure the tires are seated properly and inflated to the specification appropriate for the tire being used. Lug hardware, valve stems, and overall wheel security should also be checked carefully.

A prewar car deserves a broader inspection than tires alone. Steering play, brake function, suspension wear, wheel bearing condition, and visible clearance around fenders and chassis components should be reviewed before any meaningful drive. That helps the new 700-16 tires work as intended and protects the car on the road.

Collector-car 700-16 tires should be inspected regularly for air loss, sidewall cracking, weathering, tread damage, bulges, and any signs of age-related deterioration. Proper inflation matters, especially on a vehicle that may sit for long periods between drives or events.

Storage habits have a major effect on tire life. Keeping the Packard away from prolonged sunlight, moisture, and ozone sources such as electric motors or welding equipment helps preserve the rubber. Occasional movement, clean wheel surfaces, and routine visual checks are especially important on a low-mileage prewar car.