1958 Chevrolet Impala Tires

The 1958 Chevrolet Impala arrived as Chevrolet’s new top-line full-size model, and its distinctive one-year styling helped make it a standout of the late 1950s American car era. Cars from this period carry a strong visual identity, and tire choice plays a major role in preserving the right stance and sidewall presence. The 1958 Chevrolet Impala uses an 800-14 bias-ply tire on a 14-inch rim. That opens the door to traditional blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall choices, along with modern radial equivalents for owners considering a different construction. The key is balancing period-style appearance, wheel compatibility, and the way the car will actually be driven.

Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1958 Chevrolet Impala

The 1958 Chevrolet Impala uses one primary tire size: 800-14. It is a bias-ply fitment on a 14-inch rim, and the covered Impala sub-model uses that same size, so the main decision is not which primary size fits but whether to stay with a traditional bias-ply tire, which sidewall style suits the car, or whether a radial equivalent is worth evaluating.

1
800-14Numeric bias-ply
Fit(s): Convertible
Construction: Bias PlyRim: 14 in

An 800-14 is a numeric bias-ply size in which the 800 designation refers to a nominal 8.00-inch section width and the 14 identifies the wheel diameter in inches. On a 1958 Chevrolet Impala, this size keeps the vehicle in its original bias-ply sizing language and supports the tall-sidewall look associated with late-1950s full-size American cars. Available choices include BFGoodrich, Goodyear, and Universal Vintage Tire, with blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall presentations across series such as Silvertown Classic Bias Ply, Universal Classic Bias Ply, and Custom Super Cushion. It is the right starting point for an owner focused on authentic-looking fitment, restoration-minded appearance, or comparing traditional bias-ply options before considering a radial alternative.

Explore 800-14 Tires

1958 Chevrolet Impala Sub-Model Tires

Tire fitment is straightforward for the covered 1958 Chevrolet Impala sub-model. The main value in checking the exact sub-model is simply confirming that the car still matches its original wheel and tire setup before choosing among the available bias-ply styles or radial-equivalent alternatives.

1

1958 Chevrolet Impala Convertible

The 1958 Chevrolet Impala Convertible uses the 800-14 bias-ply tire size. That keeps tire selection centered on sidewall presentation and brand or series preference, while still leaving room to evaluate radial equivalents if the car’s wheel setup and intended road use point in that direction.

Associated Tire Sizes

Bias-Ply to Radial Tire Conversion for the 1958 Chevrolet Impala

The original 800-14 tire size has four radial-equivalent options. 205R14 is the 80-series metric radial equivalent, P215/75R14 is the P-metric 75-series radial equivalent, P225/70R14 is the P-metric 70-series radial equivalent, and 800R14 is the bias-look radial equivalent. These choices span traditional metric radial sizing, lower-profile P-metric sizing, and a radial option with a more vintage visual character. A 5-7 inch rim width range is associated with these equivalents, and wheel width, overall dimensions, and clearance should be checked before changing construction.

Modern Radial Equivalents
  • 205R14

    Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (800-14)

  • P215/75R14

    Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (800-14)

  • P225/70R14

    Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (800-14)

  • 800R14

    Bias-look Radial Equivalent (800-14)

Important Considerations When Replacing Bias Ply With Radial
  • Compare overall diameter and section width carefully to ensure proper fit.
  • Verify recommended rim range (5-7 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 1958 Chevrolet Impala Tires for Sale

Available 800-14 choices span BFGoodrich, Goodyear, and Universal Vintage Tire, with Silvertown Classic Bias Ply, Universal Classic Bias Ply, and Custom Super Cushion series represented. The main comparisons are sidewall style, bias-ply construction details, rim-width compatibility, and load or weight differences where those specifications are shown.

Showing 6 of 7
Bias Ply

BFGoodrich 1.00 Inch Whitewall | 800-14

BFGoodrich - Silvertown Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLNarrow Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER14 in
RIM WIDTH5.00 - 6.00 in
WEIGHT24 lb
MAX LOAD1620@32 psi
Buy Now
Bias Ply

Universal Wide Whitewall | 800-14

Universal Vintage Tire - Universal Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLWide Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER14 in
RIM WIDTH—
WEIGHT24 lb
MAX LOAD—
Buy Now
Bias Ply

BFGoodrich | 800-14

BFGoodrich - Silvertown Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER14 in
RIM WIDTH5.00 - 6.00 in
WEIGHT23 lb
MAX LOAD1620@32 psi
Buy Now
Bias Ply

BFGoodrich 2.25 Inch Whitewall | 800-14

BFGoodrich - Silvertown Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLWide Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER14 in
RIM WIDTH5.00 - 6.00 in
WEIGHT25 lb
MAX LOAD1620@32 psi
Buy Now
Bias Ply

Universal Narrow Whitewall | 800-14

Universal Vintage Tire - Universal Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLNarrow Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER14 in
RIM WIDTH—
WEIGHT24 lb
MAX LOAD—
Buy Now
Goodyear Tires

Goodyear Custom Super Cushion 2.25 inch Whitewall | 800-14

Goodyear - Custom Super Cushion

SIDEWALLWide Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER14 in
RIM WIDTH6 in
WEIGHT23 lb
MAX LOAD1620 lbs. @ 32 psi
Buy Now
Goodyear Tires

Goodyear Custom Super Cushion 1 inch Whitewall | 800-14

Goodyear - Custom Super Cushion

SIDEWALLNarrow Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER14 in
RIM WIDTH6 in
WEIGHT23 lb
MAX LOAD1620 lbs. @ 32 psi
Buy Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Owners of a 1958 Chevrolet Impala usually want to confirm the 800-14 fitment first, then sort through bias-ply versus radial choices, whitewall style, and the wheel and condition checks that matter before regular road use.

Tire Size & Fitment

What tire size fits a 1958 Chevrolet Impala?

The 1958 Chevrolet Impala uses an 800-14 tire size. That is a numeric bias-ply size mounted on a 14-inch rim, and it is the primary fitment for the covered Impala application.

Once the size is confirmed, the next decision is choosing the type of presentation and construction that suits the car. An owner may stay with a traditional bias-ply tire in blackwall, narrow whitewall, or wide whitewall form, or compare radial equivalents if the goal is different road manners. Wheel width, clearance, and the car’s actual current setup should be checked before moving away from the original-style bias-ply format.

What size rim does a 1958 Chevrolet Impala use?

The 1958 Chevrolet Impala tire fitment here is built around a 14-inch rim diameter. That rim diameter matches the 800-14 tire size used on the covered Impala application.

Rim diameter is only part of the fitment picture, so it helps to verify the wheel itself before ordering tires. Some 800-14 bias-ply products are paired with 5.00 to 6.00-inch rim widths, while certain radial equivalents reference a 5-7 inch range. A car that has been changed to aftermarket wheels, different wheel widths, or a different stance may need a closer fitment review even if the diameter remains 14 inches.

Does the 1958 Chevrolet Impala Convertible use the same tire size?

Yes. The covered 1958 Chevrolet Impala Convertible uses the same 800-14 bias-ply tire size as the main Impala fitment shown here. That keeps the basic tire-size decision simple for this sub-model.

The real choice for the convertible becomes how the tire should look and how the car will be used. Whitewall width can change the visual character of the car substantially, while a radial equivalent introduces a different construction choice. It is still worth confirming that the wheels on the car are the expected 14-inch setup and that no previous owner changed wheel width or suspension height.

Bias-Ply & Radial Options

Is 800-14 a bias-ply or radial tire for the 1958 Chevrolet Impala?

For the 1958 Chevrolet Impala, 800-14 is the primary bias-ply tire size. It uses the traditional numeric bias-ply format common to late-1950s American cars and is available in multiple period-style sidewall treatments.

That matters because staying with bias-ply keeps the car in its original sizing language and preserves the traditional sidewall look many restoration-minded owners want. A radial alternative can still be considered, but it should be treated as a separate fitment decision rather than the same tire in a different construction. Wheel width, clearance, and the car’s intended use all deserve a closer look before converting.

What radial tire sizes are equivalent to 800-14?

Radial equivalents for 800-14 include 205R14, P215/75R14, P225/70R14, and 800R14. Those cover an 80-series metric radial, a 75-series P-metric radial, a 70-series P-metric radial, and a bias-look radial equivalent.

Each option represents a slightly different sizing convention, so the decision is not simply bias-ply versus radial. The 800R14 keeps a more vintage presentation, while the metric and P-metric choices follow modern radial sizing formats. A 5-7 inch rim width range is associated with these equivalents, and the owner should confirm wheel width, tire clearance, and the overall vehicle setup before selecting one.

What should I check before converting my 1958 Chevrolet Impala from bias-ply to radial tires?

Start by confirming the wheel diameter, actual wheel width, and the radial-equivalent size being considered for the 1958 Chevrolet Impala. For an original 800-14 fitment, the available radial-equivalent choices are 205R14, P215/75R14, P225/70R14, and 800R14.

The practical review should include fender and steering clearance, suspension condition, and whether the car still sits at stock height. A radial-equivalent size may be suitable, but it should not be treated as an automatic interchange. Cars that have been lowered, fitted with replacement springs, or changed to non-stock wheels deserve extra attention before switching construction so the tire works with the actual setup on the car.

Choosing the Right Tire

What should I consider when choosing a 800-14 tire for a 1958 Chevrolet Impala?

The first requirement is staying with the correct 800-14 size for the 1958 Chevrolet Impala. From there, the decision usually comes down to whether the car should retain a traditional bias-ply construction or move into one of the available radial-equivalent alternatives.

Within the bias-ply choices, compare sidewall style, brand, tire series, and wheel-width compatibility where it is stated. Some owners want a blackwall look, while others want the visual emphasis of a narrow or wide whitewall. It also helps to compare maximum load figures and product weight when shown, especially if the car is driven regularly rather than displayed or used only for short local outings.

What sidewall styles are available for 1958 Chevrolet Impala tires?

The 800-14 tire choices for a 1958 Chevrolet Impala include blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall styles. That gives the owner a broad range of visual character while staying within the correct primary tire size.

Sidewall style has a major effect on how a late-1950s Chevrolet presents, especially on a car with prominent trim and brightwork. A blackwall creates a simpler, more understated look, while narrow and wide whitewalls push the appearance in a more formal or period-style direction. Appearance alone should not override fitment, so it still makes sense to confirm the wheel setup and construction choice before selecting the sidewall treatment.

What brands offer tires for the 1958 Chevrolet Impala?

The 800-14 tire size for the 1958 Chevrolet Impala is available from BFGoodrich, Goodyear, and Universal Vintage Tire. Those brands appear across series such as Silvertown Classic Bias Ply, Custom Super Cushion, and Universal Classic Bias Ply.

Brand choice is best treated as one part of a larger comparison rather than the only decision. It helps to look at which sidewall treatments each brand offers, whether the tire stays within the needed wheel-width range, and whether load or weight details are shown for the specific product. That approach keeps the focus on matching the tire to the car’s appearance goals and wheel setup instead of chasing a name alone.

Restoration & Appearance

Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1958 Chevrolet Impala?

A period-style 1958 Chevrolet Impala usually starts with the original 800-14 bias-ply size. That keeps the car in the correct sizing format for the era and preserves the tall-sidewall visual character expected on a late-1950s full-size Chevrolet.

The next step is deciding how formal or understated the finished car should look. Blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall versions are all available, and each changes the presentation without changing the primary size. When exact originality matters, the safest approach is to compare the car against marque references, period photography, or restoration documentation rather than assuming one whitewall treatment belongs on every Impala.

How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 1958 Chevrolet Impala?

Tire construction changes more than ride feel on a restored 1958 Chevrolet Impala; it also changes how the car looks. An 800-14 bias-ply keeps the traditional numeric size format and supports the visual character most owners associate with a full-size Chevrolet from this era.

A radial equivalent can be a useful alternative, but it may present the car differently depending on the sizing format and sidewall shape. The 800R14 bias-look radial is the closest visual bridge for owners who want radial construction without abandoning a vintage-style appearance entirely. That makes construction choice part of the restoration conversation, not just a mechanical decision about what rolls down the road.

Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use

Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1958 Chevrolet Impala?

Yes. Modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1958 Chevrolet Impala even when the tire size itself looks correct on paper. Wheel width changes, aftermarket wheels, lowered suspension, replacement springs, or body alterations can all change how much room the tire actually has.

That is especially important when moving from the original 800-14 bias-ply fitment to a radial equivalent. The owner should verify wheel diameter, actual wheel width, steering clearance, and fender clearance on the car as it sits today. A classic Chevrolet that has been updated over the years may no longer match its original assumptions, so current hardware matters more than the badge alone.

What should I inspect before driving a 1958 Chevrolet Impala on new tires?

Before driving a 1958 Chevrolet Impala on new tires, inspect the wheels for correct diameter and sound condition, and make sure lug hardware, valve stems, and overall wheel seating are right for the setup. The tires themselves should be checked for proper inflation and any obvious mounting or clearance concerns.

A broader walk-around is just as important on a collector car. Look at suspension condition, steering play, brake operation, and whether the tires clear the body and chassis through full steering movement. After the first short drive, it is wise to recheck air pressure and inspect for any rubbing marks or uneven stance, especially if the car uses replacement wheels or has sat for long periods.

How should 800-14 tires on a collector 1958 Chevrolet Impala be maintained?

800-14 tires on a collector 1958 Chevrolet Impala should be maintained with regular pressure checks, routine visual inspections, and attention to age-related condition. Sidewall cracking, bulges, cuts, uneven wear, and slow air loss deserve prompt attention even if the car is driven only occasionally.

Storage habits matter as much as mileage on an older collector vehicle. Keeping the car away from prolonged sunlight, heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps protect the tires between drives. It also helps to move the car periodically and inspect the tread and sidewalls before each outing, since low annual mileage can hide deterioration that would be obvious on a daily-driven vehicle.