1957 Rambler Nash Tires

The 1957 Rambler Nash reflects the compact, economical side of the American market during the late 1950s, when smaller cars carved out a distinct place alongside Detroit’s larger offerings. Its tidy proportions and light, nimble character make tire choice especially important to both appearance and road manners. This model uses a 520-13 bias-ply tire on a 13-inch rim, keeping the fitment firmly in period. That opens the door to traditional blackwall and whitewall presentations, while modern radial equivalents also exist for owners considering a different construction. The right choice depends on whether the goal is restoration-style appearance, everyday drivability, or a careful balance of both.

Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1957 Rambler Nash

The 1957 Rambler Nash uses one primary tire size: 520-13. It is a bias-ply fitment for a 13-inch rim, and the same size carries across the covered Metropolitan sub-model. Once size is confirmed, the real decision shifts to sidewall appearance, brand and tire series, and whether to stay with the original bias-ply format or evaluate one of the available radial equivalents.

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520-13Numeric bias-ply
Fit(s): Metropolitan
Construction: Bias PlyRim: 13 in

A 520-13 is a vintage numeric bias-ply size in which the 520 indicates an approximate 5.20-inch nominal section width and the 13 identifies the wheel diameter. On a 1957 Rambler Nash, that sizing keeps the car in its traditional bias-ply format and preserves the period look many restorers want. Available choices include Firestone and Premium Sport offerings, with blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall sidewall treatments across different tire series. It is the right starting point when the goal is to match the car’s original-style proportions before deciding how formal, sporty, or restoration-oriented the finished look should be.

Explore 520-13 Tires

1957 Rambler Nash Sub-Model Tires

Sub-model fitment is straightforward here, with the covered Rambler Nash sub-model sharing the same primary tire size. Checking the exact sub-model still matters because it confirms that the tire selection process is about construction and appearance choice rather than sorting between different fitted sizes.

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1957 Rambler Nash Metropolitan

The 1957 Rambler Nash Metropolitan uses the same 520-13 bias-ply tire size on a 13-inch rim. That keeps selection focused on whether the car needs a more traditional blackwall or whitewall presentation, or whether a radial equivalent deserves a closer look for road use.

Associated Tire Sizes

Bias-Ply to Radial Tire Conversion for the 1957 Rambler Nash

The original 520-13 tire size has three radial-equivalent options. 155R13 is the Euro-metric 80-series radial equivalent, P155/75R13 is the P-metric 75-series radial alternative, and P155/70R13 is the lower-profile P-metric 70-series choice. These options differ mainly by sizing convention and profile rather than by changing the primary fitment itself. A recommended rim-width range of 4 to 5 inches applies to the radial equivalents, and any conversion should be checked against wheel size, tire dimensions, and vehicle clearance.

Modern Radial Equivalents
  • 155R13

    Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (520-13)

  • P155/75R13

    Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (520-13)

  • P155/70R13

    Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (520-13)

Important Considerations When Replacing Bias Ply With Radial
  • Compare overall diameter and section width carefully to ensure proper fit.
  • Verify recommended rim range (4-5 in) and load needs match your vehicle specifications.
  • Check fender clearance, steering clearance, and stance before installation.
  • Consider suspension condition and intended road use when choosing equivalents.

Important Fitment Notes

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:

  • Wheel modifications (wider rims, offset changes, aftermarket wheels)
  • 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 1957 Rambler Nash Tires for Sale

Available 520-13 tires span Firestone and Premium Sport lines, with Firestone Classic Bias Ply and Premium Sport Lowrider series represented. Buyers can compare blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall styles, along with differences in rim-width specification, load rating, and overall presentation.

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Bias Ply

Firestone Bias Ply Siped Upper Sidewall | 520-13

Firestone - Firestone Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER13 in
RIM WIDTH3.5 in
WEIGHT15 lb
MAX LOAD770@32 psi
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Bias Ply

Premium Sport 5/8 Inch Whitewall | 520-13 | New Design

Premium Sport - Premium Sport Lowrider

SIDEWALLNarrow Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER—
RIM WIDTH—
WEIGHT16 lb
MAX LOAD—
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Bias Ply

Premium Sport 1.25 Inch Whitewall | 520-13 | Original Design

Premium Sport - Premium Sport Lowrider

SIDEWALLNarrow Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER13 in
RIM WIDTH3.50 - 4.00 in
WEIGHT16 lb
MAX LOAD1100@60 psi
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Bias Ply

Premium Sport 1.25 Inch Whitewall | 520-13 | New Design

Premium Sport - Premium Sport Lowrider

SIDEWALLNarrow Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER—
RIM WIDTH—
WEIGHT16 lb
MAX LOAD—
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Bias Ply

Firestone 2.00 Inch Whitewall | 520-13

Firestone - Firestone Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLWide Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER13 in
RIM WIDTH3.5 in
WEIGHT16 lb
MAX LOAD770@32 psi
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Bias Ply

Premium Sport 5/8 Inch Whitewall | 520-13 | Original Design

Premium Sport - Premium Sport Lowrider

SIDEWALLNarrow Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER13 in
RIM WIDTH3.50 - 4.00 in
WEIGHT16 lb
MAX LOAD1100@60 psi
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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for the 1957 Rambler Nash usually center on the 520-13 tire size, 13-inch rim fitment, bias-ply versus radial choices, and how sidewall style affects a restoration-oriented or road-driven car.

Tire Size & Fitment

What tire size fits a 1957 Rambler Nash?

The primary tire size for a 1957 Rambler Nash is 520-13. That is a vintage numeric bias-ply size used on a 13-inch wheel, and it is the main size to identify before comparing brands, sidewall styles, or equivalent radial alternatives.

Getting the size right is the first step, but it is not the only one. The next check is whether the car still has the proper wheel setup, especially if it has been modified over the years. Once the 13-inch wheel and correct width are confirmed, selection usually comes down to construction type, whitewall or blackwall appearance, and intended use.

What size rim does a 1957 Rambler Nash use?

The 1957 Rambler Nash uses a 13-inch rim with its 520-13 tire size. That rim diameter is the key wheel measurement tied to the primary fitment and should be confirmed before choosing either a bias-ply replacement or a radial equivalent.

Rim diameter alone does not answer every fitment question, because wheel width also matters. Some 520-13 products are built around narrow vintage wheel widths, and the radial equivalents call for a 4- to 5-inch rim-width range. Checking the actual wheel on the car helps avoid choosing a tire that matches diameter but not the wheel's usable width.

Does the 1957 Rambler Nash Metropolitan use the same tire size?

Yes. The covered 1957 Rambler Nash Metropolitan uses the same 520-13 bias-ply tire size as the main vehicle listing. That makes sub-model identification straightforward, because there is no separate primary size to sort through for the Metropolitan here.

Even with shared fitment, the tire decision still deserves a close look. A Metropolitan owner may still need to choose between blackwall and whitewall styling, compare Firestone versus Premium Sport offerings, or decide whether to remain with bias-ply construction or consider a radial equivalent. The wheel setup and the car's current condition should still be confirmed before making that change.

Bias-Ply & Radial Options

Is 520-13 a bias-ply or radial tire for the 1957 Rambler Nash?

For the 1957 Rambler Nash, 520-13 is the primary bias-ply tire size. It is the vintage construction associated with this fitment and is available in several period-style presentations, including blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall versions.

That matters because a bias-ply tire affects both appearance and setup decisions. Owners focused on a traditional look often stay with the original construction type, while owners considering road-use changes may look at radial equivalents instead of a radial in the same numeric format. Wheel width, clearance, and the car's current suspension condition are worth checking before changing construction.

What radial tire sizes are equivalent to 520-13?

Radial equivalents for 520-13 include 155R13, P155/75R13, and P155/70R13. The 155R13 is an 80-series metric radial equivalent, P155/75R13 is a 75-series P-metric radial, and P155/70R13 is a 70-series P-metric radial alternative.

Those sizes give a 1957 Rambler Nash owner more than one way to approach a radial conversion, but they should be treated as alternatives rather than automatic substitutes. The recommended rim-width range for these radial equivalents is 4 to 5 inches, so wheel width needs to be confirmed first. Overall dimensions and clearance should also be checked before settling on one profile.

What should I check before converting my 1957 Rambler Nash from bias-ply to radial tires?

Start by confirming the wheel diameter and width on the car, then compare the intended radial equivalent size against the current setup. For a 1957 Rambler Nash, the radial equivalents tied to 520-13 use a recommended rim-width range of 4 to 5 inches, which makes wheel compatibility an important first check.

The car's real-world condition matters just as much as the size chart. Steering clearance, fender clearance, suspension wear, ride height changes, and any aftermarket wheels can affect the result. A radial conversion may suit an owner’s driving goals, but it is smart to verify dimensions and wheel suitability carefully rather than assuming every 13-inch wheel setup will respond the same way.

Choosing the Right Tire

What should I consider when choosing a 520-13 tire for a 1957 Rambler Nash?

Begin with the correct size and construction. A 1957 Rambler Nash uses 520-13 as its primary tire size, so the first choice is whether to stay with a bias-ply tire in that original-style format or move into one of the available radial equivalents after verifying wheel compatibility.

Once that decision is made, compare the details that shape the finished result: blackwall versus whitewall appearance, brand, tire series, rim-width specification, and load capacity where it is stated. A car being restored for period presentation may point in one direction, while a driver-oriented car may lead toward another. The best choice is the one that matches both the wheel setup and the owner's goals.

What sidewall styles are available for 1957 Rambler Nash tires?

The available 520-13 tires for a 1957 Rambler Nash include blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall sidewall styles. That gives the car owner several distinct visual directions, from a simple dark sidewall to a brighter, more formal whitewall presentation.

Sidewall style changes the character of the car even when the tire size stays the same. A blackwall usually gives a plainer, more understated look, while narrow and wide whitewalls move the car toward a more restoration-oriented appearance. The right choice depends on how the Rambler Nash is being presented and whether the goal is subtle period flavor or a more prominent vintage look.

What brands offer tires for the 1957 Rambler Nash?

Firestone and Premium Sport both offer 520-13 tires for the 1957 Rambler Nash. The available products span Firestone Classic Bias Ply and Premium Sport Lowrider series, giving buyers a useful mix of traditional styling approaches within the same primary size.

Brand alone should not be the only deciding factor. It helps to compare the tire series, sidewall treatment, rim-width specification, and any stated load figures that apply to the exact product. Since every option is built around the same primary size, the better question is which combination of look and specification best suits the car's wheel setup and intended use.

Restoration & Appearance

Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1957 Rambler Nash?

A period-style 1957 Rambler Nash usually starts with the 520-13 bias-ply size, because that preserves the car's vintage tire format and proportions. From there, the choice becomes one of presentation, with blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall options all available within the correct primary size.

The most suitable look depends on how closely the car is being restored and what visual character the owner wants. For a historically minded project, the safest path is to confirm appearance details through marque references, period photos, or restoration documentation before settling on one sidewall style. Tire construction and sidewall treatment both shape how authentic the finished car appears.

Does correct tire fitment matter for a 1957 Rambler Nash restoration?

Yes, correct tire fitment matters because tire size and construction strongly influence how a 1957 Rambler Nash sits, looks, and feels on the road. Staying with the primary 520-13 bias-ply size keeps the car aligned with the period format associated with this model.

A restoration can lose some of its visual coherence when the tire profile or sidewall presentation looks out of place, even if the wheel diameter seems close. That does not mean every owner must avoid radial alternatives, but it does mean the decision should be deliberate. Matching the tire to the restoration goal is just as important as matching it to the rim.

Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use

Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1957 Rambler Nash?

Yes. Modifications can change how a tire fits a 1957 Rambler Nash even when the tire size itself is correct on paper. Aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, suspension changes, ride-height adjustments, or bodywork variations can all affect clearance and how the tire sits in the wheel opening.

A car that still uses its original-style wheel setup is usually simpler to evaluate than one that has been updated over time. It helps to confirm actual wheel diameter and width, then check steering and fender clearance at full turn and full suspension movement. That is especially important before trying a radial equivalent instead of the primary 520-13 bias-ply format.

What should I inspect before driving a 1957 Rambler Nash on new tires?

Before road use, inspect the wheels, valve stems, and lug hardware, and make sure the tire size matches the wheel diameter and intended setup. It is also wise to look over suspension and steering components so the new tires are not being asked to compensate for worn mechanical parts.

Collector cars often sit for long periods, so a quick visual check is not enough. Verify inflation, watch for rubbing at full steering lock, and recheck for air loss after the first few drives. A fresh set of tires can only perform as expected when the wheel condition, alignment, and surrounding chassis components are in sound working order.

How should 520-13 tires on a collector 1957 Rambler Nash be maintained?

520-13 tires on a collector 1957 Rambler Nash should be kept properly inflated, inspected regularly, and protected from long storage conditions that accelerate aging. Tread depth matters, but sidewall condition, flat spotting, cracks, bulges, and slow air loss are often even more important on a lightly used vintage car.

Storage habits play a big role in tire life. Keeping the car away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps preserve both rubber condition and appearance. It also helps to move the car periodically and inspect the tires before each driving season, especially when the vehicle is used only occasionally rather than every week.