1938 Packard 1701 Series Tires

The 1938 Packard 1701 Series uses a 700-16 tire size in bias-ply construction. That is the primary fitment for this model, and the covered 8-cylinder sub-model uses the same size, so the basic tire-size decision is straightforward.

Once 700-16 is confirmed, the next step is choosing the type of tire within that size. Blackwall and wide whitewall versions are available, along with different bias-ply series and some more utility-oriented 700-16 options. Wheel width, intended appearance, and how the car will be driven should all be checked before making the final selection.

The 1938 Packard 1701 Series uses a 16-inch rim with its 700-16 tire size. Several available 700-16 products in this fitment also call for a 16-inch rim and commonly reference a 4.50- to 5.50-inch rim-width range.

Rim diameter is only part of the fitment picture on a prewar car. It is still wise to confirm the actual wheel on the vehicle, especially if it has been restored long ago, modified, or fitted with replacement wheels. Verifying wheel width and overall condition helps narrow the right 700-16 tire choice and avoids mismatch between tire profile and wheel.

Yes. The covered 1938 Packard 1701 Series 8 Cyl. uses the same 700-16 bias-ply tire size as the model core. That means sub-model identification does not introduce a second primary size within this application.

Because the size remains the same, the practical decision shifts to the style and character of the tire. A wide whitewall gives the car a more formal period-style presentation, while blackwall options create a more restrained look. It is also worth confirming whether the car still wears original-style wheels or has later replacements that could affect rim-width suitability.

Start with the correct 700-16 size and bias-ply construction, then compare the tire's intended character. Some 700-16 options are classic passenger-car tires, while others are military or truck-oriented bias-ply designs that may suit a very different appearance and use profile.

Sidewall style is a major part of the decision on a prewar Packard. Wide whitewall tires create a more formal restoration-oriented look, while blackwalls are more understated. It also helps to compare rim-width suitability, load figures where stated, and whether the car is being prepared for show presentation, occasional touring, or more general road use.

The available 700-16 tires for a 1938 Packard 1701 Series include both blackwall and wide whitewall sidewall styles. That gives owners a clear appearance choice without changing the basic tire size or moving away from the traditional bias-ply format.

A wide whitewall usually suits the formal, upscale look many buyers want from a late-1930s Packard, while blackwall tires create a simpler and more utilitarian presentation. The right choice depends on how the car is being restored and shown. If authenticity is critical, compare the tire appearance against period photos, marque references, or vehicle-specific historical documentation.

700-16 tires for the 1938 Packard 1701 Series are available from Lester, Avon, BFGoodrich, Firestone, Tornel, and STA. Those brands cover several bias-ply series, including classic passenger-car styles as well as military and truck-oriented offerings in the same basic size.

Brand should be considered alongside the tire's series, sidewall style, and overall presentation rather than by name alone. A wide whitewall BFGoodrich, Firestone, or Lester tire may fit a restoration-oriented goal differently than a blackwall military-pattern design. Comparing wheel requirements and intended use helps narrow the right choice more effectively than focusing on brand only.

A period-style starting point for the 1938 Packard 1701 Series is a 700-16 bias-ply passenger-car tire. That keeps the car in the original sizing format and preserves the traditional sidewall profile and overall visual character expected on a full-size late-1930s luxury automobile.

From there, the main choice is the presentation you want the car to carry. Wide whitewall tires often complement the formal styling of a Packard from this era, while blackwalls create a quieter, more restrained look. When exact originality matters, compare sidewall treatment and brand appearance with period photography, marque-club guidance, or other vehicle-specific historical references.

On a restored 1938 Packard 1701 Series, bias-ply construction plays a visible role in how the car sits and presents. The 700-16 bias-ply format supports the tall, traditional proportions associated with prewar American luxury cars and contributes to the period-style profile many restorers want.

Construction choice also changes how details such as sidewall shape and overall stance are perceived, even when the size remains the same. That is why many restoration-minded owners stay with a passenger-car bias-ply in the proper 700-16 format. Appearance should still be balanced with wheel condition, intended use, and the practical realities of how often the car will be driven.

Yes. Even though the primary tire size is 700-16, modifications can change what works on a 1938 Packard 1701 Series. Replacement wheels, altered wheel width, brake conversions, suspension work, or body changes can all affect how a tire sits and clears the car.

A prewar vehicle may also have accumulated decades of repairs that are not obvious at first glance. Checking actual rim diameter, wheel width, steering travel, and fender clearance is especially important before installing new tires. That matters even more if the car already has non-original wheels or if the suspension height and alignment are no longer in stock condition.

Before road use, inspect the wheels, valve stems, wheel hardware, and overall condition of the suspension and steering components. New 700-16 tires cannot compensate for cracked wheels, worn steering parts, poor alignment, or brake issues that can make a large prewar Packard feel unsettled on the road.

Tire pressure, bead seating, and visible clearance at the front fenders and rear bodywork should also be checked once the tires are mounted. A short test drive followed by a second inspection can reveal rubbing, unusual wear, or air loss early. On collector cars that sit often, age-related issues elsewhere on the chassis deserve just as much attention as the tires.

Collector-car 700-16 tires should be maintained with regular pressure checks, visual inspections, and sensible storage habits. Even if tread wear is minimal, a prewar Packard that spends long periods parked can still develop age-related concerns such as sidewall cracking, flat spotting, or slow air loss.

Keeping the car away from prolonged heat, direct sunlight, moisture, and ozone sources helps preserve the tires between drives. It also helps to inspect the tread, sidewalls, and inner wheel area before each outing rather than assuming low mileage means the tires are ready for road use. Seasonal checks are especially worthwhile on infrequently driven collector vehicles.