The 1956 Fiat 1400 belongs to the postwar European sedan era, when compact, well-engineered cars balanced everyday practicality with refined road manners. For owners of a 1956 Fiat 1400, tire choice is tied closely to the exact version of the car, because both radial and bias-ply fitments appear across the covered sub-models. The A & B uses either 165R14 radial or 5.90-14 bias-ply sizing, while the diesel version steps up to 175R14 radial or 6.40-14 bias-ply. That creates a meaningful choice between traditional construction and period-style radial options from brands such as Pirelli, Michelin, and Vredestein. The right selection starts with the sub-model, then moves to construction, appearance, and wheel compatibility.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1956 Fiat 1400
The 1956 Fiat 1400 uses four primary tire sizes, and the correct one depends on the exact sub-model and whether the car is set up for radial or bias-ply tires. All of these fitments use a 14-inch rim, so the first step is confirming whether the car is a standard A & B or an A & B Diesel, then matching the tire construction and size to the wheel and vehicle setup already in place.
165R14 is a Euro-metric radial size in which 165 denotes nominal section width in millimeters, R indicates radial construction, and 14 identifies the rim diameter in inches. On the 1956 Fiat 1400, this size applies to the A & B and gives the car a distinctly European radial fitment. Available choices include blackwall tires from Pirelli, Michelin, and Vredestein in series such as Cinturato CA67, XAS, and Sprint Classic. This size is worth evaluating when the goal is to keep the car on a 14-inch radial setup with a traditional metric profile and period-oriented appearance.
5.90-14 is a numeric bias-ply size, with 5.90 referring to nominal section width in inches and 14 indicating the rim diameter. For the 1956 Fiat 1400, this is the bias-ply fitment used on the A & B, making it the traditional construction choice for owners who want to stay with an earlier tire type. Bias-ply sizing like this is especially relevant when maintaining a more vintage driving character or preserving a restoration-oriented look. Before choosing it, confirm that the car is equipped for this bias-ply size rather than one of the radial alternatives.
175R14 is a Euro-metric radial size, with a 175-millimeter nominal section width, radial construction, and a 14-inch rim diameter. On the 1956 Fiat 1400, this size belongs to the A & B Diesel and represents the larger radial option among the covered fitments. Blackwall choices are available from Michelin and Vredestein, including XAS, Sprint Plus, and Sprint Classic series. This size matters when the car is the diesel sub-model, since moving to the wrong radial size can affect both the stance and the way the tire sits on the wheel.
6.40-14 is a numeric bias-ply size in which 6.40 expresses nominal section width in inches and 14 identifies the wheel diameter. For the 1956 Fiat 1400, this bias-ply fitment applies to the A & B Diesel rather than the standard A & B. It is the traditional construction counterpart to the diesel model's radial sizing and suits buyers focused on maintaining an earlier tire format. Choosing this size starts with confirming the sub-model and making sure the car's current wheel and overall setup still correspond to the larger diesel fitment.
Sub-model fitment matters on the 1956 Fiat 1400 because the standard A & B and the A & B Diesel do not share the same primary tire sizes. Both versions use 14-inch rims, but the correct tire choice still depends on identifying the exact sub-model before selecting bias-ply or radial construction.
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1956 Fiat 1400 A & B
The 1956 Fiat 1400 A & B uses 165R14 in radial form or 5.90-14 in bias-ply form. That gives the owner a choice between a metric radial presentation and a more traditional bias-ply approach, making wheel setup and restoration goals the key factors before selecting a tire.
The 1956 Fiat 1400 A & B Diesel steps up to 175R14 for radial fitment or 6.40-14 for bias-ply fitment. That distinction makes diesel-model identification important, especially when comparing the car's existing wheels and deciding whether to retain its original-style construction or use a radial setup.
The tire sizes listed on this page assume factory-standard vehicle configuration. The following modifications may affect tire fitment and are not reflected in this guide:
Suspension changes (lowering, lift kits, spring replacements)
Body alterations (fender modifications, custom bodywork)
If your vehicle has been modified from factory specifications, verify tire clearance before purchase.
Best 1956 Fiat 1400 Tires for Sale
Available 14-inch tire choices for the 1956 Fiat 1400 center on radial blackwall options from Pirelli, Michelin, and Vredestein. The product range varies by size and series, with options such as Cinturato CA67, Michelin XAS, Sprint Classic, and Sprint Plus for buyers comparing period-style European radial character.
Owners researching 1956 Fiat 1400 tires usually need to sort out sub-model sizing first, then compare radial versus bias-ply construction, 14-inch rim fitment, and the available blackwall product choices for road use or restoration-minded presentation.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1956 Fiat 1400?
A 1956 Fiat 1400 can use 165R14, 5.90-14, 175R14, or 6.40-14, but the correct size depends on the sub-model and construction type. The A & B uses 165R14 radial or 5.90-14 bias-ply, while the A & B Diesel uses 175R14 radial or 6.40-14 bias-ply.
That means the first job is identifying whether the car is a standard A & B or the diesel version. After that, confirm whether the car is currently set up for radial or bias-ply tires and make sure the wheel, tire construction, and overall fitment all match before choosing among the available products.
What size rim does a 1956 Fiat 1400 use?
The covered tire fitments for the 1956 Fiat 1400 all use a 14-inch rim diameter. That applies to both radial sizes, 165R14 and 175R14, as well as the bias-ply sizes 5.90-14 and 6.40-14.
Even with a shared 14-inch rim diameter, the tire size is not the same across every version of the car. A buyer still needs to confirm the exact sub-model and, when possible, verify the wheel width and the car's current setup so the chosen tire suits both the wheel and the available clearance.
Do all 1956 Fiat 1400 sub-models use the same tire size?
No. The 1956 Fiat 1400 A & B and the 1956 Fiat 1400 A & B Diesel use different tire sizes. The standard A & B uses 165R14 radial or 5.90-14 bias-ply, while the diesel version uses 175R14 radial or 6.40-14 bias-ply.
That difference matters because the diesel car uses a larger fitment in both construction types. Anyone replacing old tires should confirm the sub-model before ordering, especially if the car has been in long-term storage or has changed hands, since an incorrect size can complicate both appearance and wheel-to-body clearance.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 1956 Fiat 1400 tire?
Start with the exact sub-model, because the standard A & B and the A & B Diesel do not share the same tire sizes. Then decide whether the car should stay with bias-ply construction or use one of the radial fitments that apply to that version of the 1956 Fiat 1400.
Once the size and construction are settled, compare the details that shape ownership experience: tire series, blackwall presentation, wheel-width compatibility where stated, and load information where available. A restoration-minded car may call for a more traditional presentation, while a road-driven car may benefit from staying within the appropriate radial options for its sub-model.
What brands offer tires for the 1956 Fiat 1400?
Radial tire options for the 1956 Fiat 1400 are available from Pirelli, Michelin, and Vredestein. Depending on the exact size, the available series include Pirelli Cinturato CA67, Michelin XAS, Vredestein Sprint Classic, and Vredestein Sprint Plus.
Brand choice matters less than matching the car's correct size and intended use. Once the sub-model and construction are confirmed, compare which brand offers the series, rim-width specification, and general visual character that best suits the car, rather than assuming every 14-inch option will serve the same role on every Fiat 1400.
What tire series are available for the 1956 Fiat 1400?
The 1956 Fiat 1400 has radial tire options in several recognizable series, including Pirelli Cinturato CA67, Michelin XAS, Vredestein Sprint Classic, and Vredestein Sprint Plus. The exact series depends on whether the car uses 165R14 or 175R14.
Series differences help narrow the field after the correct size is established. Some buyers focus on a particular European-style tread and presentation, while others are simply looking for the right size from a respected vintage-oriented line. Matching the series to the sub-model and wheel setup keeps the decision grounded in fitment rather than appearance alone.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1956 Fiat 1400?
A period-style 1956 Fiat 1400 usually starts with using the correct sub-model size and deciding whether the car should remain on bias-ply construction or use the appropriate radial fitment for that version. The A & B and A & B Diesel each have their own bias-ply and radial size pairings.
That choice shapes both appearance and character. Bias-ply sizing tends to support a more traditional presentation, while classic-style metric radials can still look at home on a postwar European sedan. When exact originality matters, compare the car against marque-club references or restoration records before settling on a construction and sidewall treatment.
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 1956 Fiat 1400 restoration?
Yes, correct tire fitment matters on a 1956 Fiat 1400 restoration because the car's stance, wheel appearance, and overall visual balance depend heavily on using the right size for the exact sub-model. The standard A & B and the diesel version do not share the same primary tire dimensions.
Construction choice also changes the finished look. A bias-ply tire gives a different visual impression than a Euro-metric radial, even when both are valid fitments for the car. Restorers should confirm the sub-model first, then make sure the wheel diameter, wheel width, and intended presentation all support the tire selected.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1956 Fiat 1400?
Yes. Modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1956 Fiat 1400 even when the tire size itself is correct for the sub-model. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel width, suspension work, ride-height adjustments, or body repairs can all alter the way a 14-inch tire sits and clears the car.
A Fiat 1400 that has been restored or updated should be checked carefully before changing sizes or constructions. Look at steering clearance, fender clearance, and how the tire sits on the wheel, especially if moving between bias-ply and radial fitments. Small European sedans leave little room for assumption when the chassis setup has changed.
What should I inspect before driving a 1956 Fiat 1400 on new tires?
Before driving a 1956 Fiat 1400 on new tires, inspect the wheels, valve stems, and the general condition of the suspension and steering components. The tires themselves should be checked for proper seating, inflation, and any visible issues such as cuts, bulges, or uneven contact after installation.
A short shakedown drive is wise, followed by another visual inspection. Collector cars that sit for long periods can have problems elsewhere in the chassis that show up only once fresh tires are installed. It also helps to confirm that the tire clears the body and steering through its full range of motion before regular road use.
How should tires on a collector 1956 Fiat 1400 be maintained?
Tires on a collector 1956 Fiat 1400 should be kept clean, properly inflated, and inspected regularly for age-related cracking, flat spotting, air loss, and sidewall damage. Because these cars are often driven infrequently, condition matters just as much as tread depth when judging whether the tires are still roadworthy.
Storage plays a big role in tire life. A Fiat 1400 kept away from prolonged sunlight, heat, moisture, and ozone sources will generally treat its tires better than a car stored carelessly. It is also smart to inspect the tires before every drive and especially before longer trips, even if the car has seen very few miles.
