1949 Packard Super Tires

The 1949 Packard Super uses two primary tire sizes: 760-15 and 820-15. Both are bias-ply tires designed for 15-inch rims, but they do not apply to the same sub-model. The Packard Super 8 uses 760-15, while the Packard Super 8 (7 Passenger) uses 820-15.

That means the first step is confirming exactly which Packard Super you have before selecting a tire. Once the size is matched to the sub-model, the next decisions are appearance and construction related, such as blackwall versus whitewall, brand and tire series, or whether to evaluate one of the available radial-equivalent sizes instead of staying with a traditional bias-ply tire.

The 1949 Packard Super uses 15-inch rims with both of its primary tire sizes. That applies whether the car takes 760-15 or 820-15, so wheel diameter remains consistent across the covered Super sub-models even though the tire width category changes.

Wheel diameter is only part of the fitment picture on a collector Packard. Wheel width still matters, especially if the car has replacement wheels, older service wheels, or a planned radial conversion. Checking the actual wheel before mounting new tires helps avoid problems with bead seating, sidewall shape, and clearance at the fender or steering components.

The 1949 Packard Super has more than one tire size because fitment changes by sub-model. The standard Super 8 uses 760-15, while the Super 8 (7 Passenger) uses the larger 820-15. Both remain period-style bias-ply fitments on 15-inch rims, but they are not the same primary size.

That distinction matters because a larger Packard body configuration may call for a different tire profile and wheel-width relationship than the standard car. It also affects what products you can compare, since the 820-15 size has a broader mix of blackwall and whitewall choices. Verifying the sub-model first keeps the search focused on tires that match the vehicle's intended setup.

Both 760-15 and 820-15 are primary bias-ply tire sizes for the 1949 Packard Super. Those vintage numeric sizes belong to the traditional construction used on the car's covered sub-models, and the available core fitments in these sizes stay within that bias-ply layout rather than a modern radial format.

Keeping a bias-ply tire preserves the original-era sizing system and a more traditional visual presentation, which matters to many Packard owners. A change to radial construction can still be considered through listed equivalent sizes, but that is a separate fitment decision. Wheel width, overall dimensions, and body or suspension clearance should be checked before moving away from the primary bias-ply setup.

For 760-15, the radial equivalents are 215R15, P225/75R15, P235/70R15, and 760R15 as a bias-look radial. For 820-15, the equivalents are 235R15, P235/75R15, P255/70R15, and 820R15 as a bias-look radial. Both size groups also carry a recommended 6-8 inch rim-width range for equivalent evaluation.

Those choices give you several paths, from a Euro-metric 80-series style radial to lower-profile P-metric alternatives and a radial intended to preserve a more vintage look. None of them should be treated as automatic substitutions. The practical next step is comparing the chosen equivalent against the Packard's actual wheels, available body clearance, and the way the car is expected to be driven.

Start by confirming the Packard's actual primary size, then match it to the correct equivalent group: 760-15 or 820-15. From there, check the wheel diameter, wheel width, and the equivalent size you are considering, whether that is an 80-series metric radial, a P-metric 75- or 70-series radial, or a bias-look radial option.

A radial conversion should also include a close look at fender clearance, steering travel, suspension condition, and load needs for the way the car is used. Older collector cars are often modified over time, so the current wheel and chassis setup may differ from original-era assumptions. A careful fitment review matters more than simply matching the rim diameter.

Begin with the exact sub-model, because the 1949 Packard Super does not use one universal tire size. After confirming whether the car needs 760-15 or 820-15, the key decisions become bias-ply versus radial-equivalent direction, 15-inch wheel compatibility, and the visual style that best suits the car's restoration or touring goals.

From there, compare the available tire series, sidewall treatments, and any published rim-width or load details tied to the products in that size. A Packard aimed at formal period appearance may call for one whitewall presentation, while a more driver-focused car may lead you toward a different construction choice. The right tire is the one that matches both the car and the owner's intended use.

1949 Packard Super tires are available in blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall styles, depending on the size and tire series. The 760-15 fitment centers mainly on narrow and wide whitewall choices, while 820-15 opens the range further with blackwall, narrow whitewall, and multiple wide whitewall presentations.

That sidewall choice has a major effect on how the car looks, especially on a late-1940s luxury model where tire presentation is highly visible. The best approach is to decide whether the car is being finished for restoration-oriented appearance, understated touring, or a more custom look, then compare the sidewall treatment only within the correct primary size for the sub-model.

Tire options for the 1949 Packard Super include BFGoodrich, Coker Classic, Universal Vintage Tire, Goodyear, Firestone, US Royal, and Avon, depending on the size selected. The broader brand spread appears in 820-15, while 760-15 still offers several strong period-style choices across well-known vintage tire lines.

Brand alone should not drive the decision. It makes more sense to compare the brand together with the correct size, sidewall style, tire series, and any wheel-width or load details that matter for the car's setup. For many Packard owners, the appearance of the sidewall and the overall fit with the vehicle's character are just as important as the name on the tire.

A period-style 1949 Packard Super should start with the correct primary bias-ply size for the exact sub-model: 760-15 for the Super 8 or 820-15 for the Super 8 (7 Passenger). From there, the most restoration-oriented choice usually comes down to selecting an appropriate bias-ply tire series and the sidewall treatment that best matches the car's intended presentation.

Wide whitewall and narrow whitewall options both exist within these Packard sizes, so appearance can be tailored without leaving the original-era sizing system. If exact historical authenticity matters beyond a general period look, the safest approach is to compare the tire choice against marque-specific references, surviving original examples, or restoration documentation tied to the individual car.

Tire construction affects more than ride feel on a restored 1949 Packard Super; it also shapes the car's overall stance and visual character. A traditional bias-ply tire keeps the vintage numeric sizing and a more authentic late-1940s presentation, while a radial equivalent can change the visual impression even when chosen in a sympathetic size.

That matters most on a formal car like a Packard, where whitewall proportion and sidewall shape are part of the finished look. A bias-look radial can help bridge appearance and modern construction, but it should still be treated as an alternative rather than the same thing as a bias-ply tire. Matching the construction to the restoration goal usually produces the most satisfying result.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1949 Packard Super even when the chosen tire matches the correct primary size. Aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, suspension work, ride-height changes, or body repairs can all change how a 760-15, 820-15, or any radial-equivalent alternative sits within the wheel opening.

That is especially important on a collector car that may have passed through several owners over many decades. A Packard with non-original wheels or chassis changes should be measured carefully before mounting new tires. Clearance at full steering lock, vertical suspension travel, and actual wheel dimensions matter more than assuming the car still matches its original-era configuration.

Before road use, inspect the wheels for condition and correct diameter, make sure lug hardware seats properly, and confirm that each tire is mounted in the correct size for the sub-model. Tire pressure, visible sidewall condition, bead seating, and basic clearance around fenders and steering components should also be checked before the car sees regular driving.

A newly mounted tire does not cancel out other age-related issues on a postwar Packard. Brake condition, suspension wear, and steering play can all influence how the car behaves once it is back on the road. A short low-speed test drive, followed by a second inspection for rubbing or air loss, is a smart final check before longer trips.

Collector-car tires in 760-15 or 820-15 should be kept properly inflated, inspected regularly for cracking, bulges, cuts, tread wear, and any signs of air loss, and cleaned with care. On a low-use 1949 Packard Super, long periods of sitting can be just as important as mileage when judging tire condition.

Storage also plays a major role in tire life. Keeping the Packard away from prolonged sunlight, moisture, high heat, and ozone sources helps preserve both the rubber and the sidewall appearance. It is wise to inspect the tires before every meaningful drive, especially after seasonal storage, and to treat age and visible condition as seriously as tread depth.