1938 Chrysler Imperial Tires

The 1938 Chrysler Imperial uses either a 650-16 or a 750-16 tire, and the correct size depends on the sub-model. The Imperial C19 8 Cyl. uses 650-16, while the Imperial Custom C20 8 Cyl. uses 750-16. Both are bias-ply fitments built for 16-inch rims.

The key is matching the tire to the exact version of the car rather than assuming every 1938 Imperial uses the same size. A wheel change, an older restoration, or a previous owner conversion can alter what is currently on the car, so checking the sub-model and the actual wheel diameter before choosing a replacement is the safest approach.

The covered 1938 Chrysler Imperial fitments use a 16-inch rim diameter. That applies to both primary tire sizes on this page, even though the section width changes between 650-16 and 750-16 depending on the sub-model. Rim diameter stays consistent, while the tire size changes with the configuration.

That consistency helps narrow the search, but it does not mean any 16-inch tire is appropriate. Wheel width still matters, and the correct tire size must match the Imperial's specific sub-model. It is also worth confirming the actual wheel on the car, especially if the vehicle has been restored long ago or fitted with replacement wheels at some point.

No. The 1938 Chrysler Imperial C19 8 Cyl. uses 650-16, while the 1938 Chrysler Imperial Custom C20 8 Cyl. uses 750-16. Both are bias-ply tires for 16-inch rims, but the two sub-models do not share one common primary size.

That difference is important because the first buying decision is not sidewall style or brand, but confirming which Imperial configuration is in the garage. Once the sub-model is settled, the tire search becomes much easier, and then the owner can compare blackwall versus wide whitewall options, tread style, and other details that shape the car's final appearance.

Start with the exact tire size required by the sub-model, since the 1938 Chrysler Imperial uses either 650-16 or 750-16 rather than one universal fitment. Both are bias-ply sizes on 16-inch rims, so the next choices are sidewall style, tire series, brand, and whether the car is being finished for show presentation or regular collector driving.

It also helps to compare the wheel itself before making a final selection. Some products in these sizes are tailored more toward traditional passenger-car presentation, while others have more utility-oriented tread character. Matching the tire's look and specification to the Imperial's actual wheel width and intended use usually leads to a better result than choosing by appearance alone.

The main sidewall choices for 1938 Chrysler Imperial tires are blackwall and wide whitewall, depending on the size and product selected. Both 650-16 and 750-16 have options that keep a traditional prewar look, and the whitewall choices vary by brand and tire series rather than following one single appearance pattern.

That means the sidewall decision is largely an appearance choice once the correct tire size has been confirmed. Blackwalls tend to give a more restrained, utilitarian presentation, while wide whitewalls bring more visual emphasis to the wheel opening and overall profile. Owners aiming for a restoration-oriented look often compare the car's trim, hubcaps, and period photos before settling on a sidewall style.

Tires for the 1938 Chrysler Imperial are available from several brands, including BFGoodrich, Coker Classic, Firestone, Garfield, Lester, Goodyear, STA, Excelsior, and Tornel. Brand availability varies by size, so the mix of options in 650-16 is not identical to the choices in 750-16.

The practical difference for the buyer is not simply the brand name, but how each product combines sidewall style, tire series, rim-width compatibility, and intended character. Some choices lean toward classic passenger-car presentation, while others have more truck or military-style tread patterns. Picking among them starts with the correct Imperial sub-model, then moves to the look and use the owner wants.

A period-style 1938 Chrysler Imperial tire choice starts with the correct primary size for the sub-model: 650-16 for the C19 8 Cyl. and 750-16 for the Custom C20 8 Cyl. Both are bias-ply sizes, which helps preserve the tall prewar profile and traditional visual character that suit an Imperial of this era.

After the size is confirmed, the main restoration decision becomes appearance. Blackwall and wide whitewall options are both available, along with several classic tire series from recognized vintage brands. When exact originality matters, it is worth comparing surviving photos, marque references, or restoration records for the specific car rather than assuming one sidewall treatment was universal across all 1938 Imperials.

On a restored 1938 Chrysler Imperial, bias-ply construction plays a major role in the finished look because it preserves the tall-sidewall, prewar tire shape associated with the car's era. Since both primary fitments for this Imperial are bias-ply, the construction itself supports a traditional presentation before sidewall style is even considered.

Visual character still changes within that bias-ply framework. A blackwall keeps the car more understated, while a wide whitewall creates a more formal, luxury-oriented appearance. Tread style and brand presentation can also influence the finished look, so the best choice depends on whether the car is being restored for authentic period flavor, broad visual impact, or comfortable participation in local shows and tours.

Yes. Even though the 1938 Chrysler Imperial uses 16-inch tires in either 650-16 or 750-16 depending on sub-model, wheel and suspension changes can affect what actually clears the car. Aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, brake conversions, changed ride height, or body work near the fenders can all influence whether the intended tire setup is still appropriate.

That is why an older luxury car should be checked as it sits today, not only by model year and nameplate. Measuring the actual wheel diameter and width, then checking steering and fender clearance, helps prevent surprises. A car restored decades ago may not still wear its original-style wheels, and those changes can matter just as much as the printed tire size.

Before driving a 1938 Chrysler Imperial on new tires, inspect the wheels for damage, confirm the tire size matches the sub-model, and make sure the wheel diameter is the expected 16 inches. It also helps to look over steering and suspension components, since loose or worn parts can affect how a tall bias-ply tire behaves on the road.

A collector car should also be checked for tire pressure stability, proper bead seating, and clearance at full steering lock. Sidewall-to-fender and sidewall-to-suspension space are especially worth verifying after installation. Even with fresh tires, a prewar car that has sat for long periods benefits from a careful short test drive before any longer trip or touring event.

Collector-car tires on a 1938 Chrysler Imperial should be maintained with regular pressure checks, visual inspections, and storage habits that reduce age-related deterioration. Whether the car uses 650-16 or 750-16, owners should watch for cracking, bulges, cuts, uneven wear, and slow air loss, especially on a vehicle that spends much of its time parked.

Storage conditions matter almost as much as mileage on a prewar car. Keeping the Imperial away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone-producing equipment can help preserve the tires between drives. Rotating the car occasionally, checking the condition before each outing, and inspecting after long dormant periods are smart habits for any seldom-driven collector vehicle.