1958 Rambler Tires

The 1958 Rambler uses two primary bias-ply tire sizes: 640-15 and 670-15. Both sizes are built for 15-inch rims, and the covered 6-cylinder application can use either size depending on the vehicle’s exact setup and wheel configuration.

That means the real task is not guessing between modern sizes first, but confirming which primary size belongs on the car as it sits today. Checking the wheels already on the vehicle, the existing tire markings, and any restoration or modification history will help determine whether 640-15 or 670-15 is the better match before moving on to brand, sidewall, or radial-equivalent choices.

The primary tire fitments for a 1958 Rambler use a 15-inch rim diameter. Both 640-15 and 670-15 are 15-inch bias-ply sizes, so the rim diameter stays the same even though the tire size itself can vary.

Rim diameter is only part of the fitment picture on a collector car. Wheel width still needs to suit the tire being considered, especially if the car has replacement wheels or has been restored over the years with non-original components. Matching the correct 15-inch diameter first gives you the foundation to compare the right tire size, sidewall style, and construction.

The covered 1958 Rambler 6 Cyl. application is associated with both 640-15 and 670-15 bias-ply sizes. Rather than one fixed size across every example, this sub-model requires a closer look at the car’s actual wheel and tire setup.

That matters because the page does not point to just one universal replacement path. A buyer should verify the tires currently on the car, confirm that the wheels are 15-inch wheels, and then compare the fitment details of the intended tire. Once the primary size is settled, choosing between blackwall, narrow whitewall, wide whitewall, or a radial equivalent becomes much easier.

On a 1958 Rambler, 640-15 is a primary bias-ply tire size. It uses the traditional numeric bias-ply sizing format common to the period, with a nominal 6.40-inch section width and a 15-inch rim diameter.

That makes 640-15 the starting point for owners who want to keep the car in its original construction era. A radial alternative can still be considered, but it should be treated as a conversion choice rather than the primary fitment itself. Wheel width, overall tire dimensions, and body or steering clearance all deserve a close look before changing construction.

Radial equivalents for 670-15 include 195R15 as an 80-series metric radial, P205/75R15 as a 75-series P-metric radial, P215/70R15 as a 70-series P-metric radial, and 670R15 as a bias-look radial. Each one offers a different sizing convention while staying in the same general fitment conversation.

Those options should be compared carefully rather than treated as automatic substitutions. The recommended rim-width range tied to the equivalents is 5 to 7 inches, and the car’s actual wheel width, tire clearance, and suspension condition should be confirmed before changing from bias-ply to radial construction. That extra check is especially important on a restored or modified Rambler.

A bias-look radial equivalent is available for the 670-15 fitment in the form of 670R15. That gives a 1958 Rambler owner a way to consider radial construction while keeping a more traditional visual presentation than a modern-looking radial size might provide.

Even with that familiar appearance, a bias-look radial should still be evaluated as a radial alternative rather than assumed to match every car automatically. Wheel width, rim condition, clearance at full steering lock, and the vehicle’s overall setup should all be reviewed before making the change. It is best suited to owners balancing period-style looks with an interest in radial construction.

Start by confirming which primary size your 1958 Rambler actually uses, since both 640-15 and 670-15 apply to the covered 6-cylinder fitment. From there, the main selection factors are maintaining bias-ply construction, choosing an appropriate sidewall treatment, and comparing product details such as rim-width suitability and load capacity.

A car aimed at restoration display may lead you toward a specific whitewall style, while a driver-focused car may prompt a closer look at radial-equivalent options where available. It also helps to compare the wheels currently on the car rather than assuming they are original. Once size and wheel compatibility are settled, the remaining choice becomes much more straightforward.

Tires for the 1958 Rambler are available in blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall styles across the 640-15 and 670-15 bias-ply sizes. The exact sidewall treatments vary by size and product line, so the available visual choices are broader in 670-15 than in 640-15.

Sidewall style has a major effect on how a late-1950s Rambler presents, especially on a restoration-oriented car. A blackwall keeps the look restrained, while narrow and wide whitewalls move the appearance more deeply into period style. It still makes sense to choose the sidewall only after confirming the correct tire size, since appearance should follow fitment rather than replace it.

Brand choices for the 1958 Rambler include Firestone, BFGoodrich, Avon, Excelsior, Goodyear, US Royal, Universal Vintage Tire, Coker Classic, and STA, depending on whether you need 640-15 or 670-15. The broader brand selection appears in 670-15, while 640-15 still offers several strong period-style options.

Brand choice is best treated as one part of a larger comparison rather than the first decision. It helps to settle the correct size, construction, and sidewall style before narrowing the field by series or manufacturer. Once those basics are clear, comparing rim-width guidance, load figures, and the overall look of each tire line becomes much more meaningful.

For a period-style 1958 Rambler, the first priority is staying with the correct primary bias-ply size for the car’s setup, either 640-15 or 670-15. After that, the visual direction usually comes down to choosing between blackwall, narrow whitewall, or wide whitewall within the appropriate size.

Bias-ply construction preserves the tire character most closely associated with the Rambler’s era, which matters on a restoration-oriented car. Exact originality can still vary by how a specific vehicle was delivered, restored, or judged, so buyers pursuing a highly exact presentation should compare the tire choice with marque references or other vehicle-specific historical documentation before making a final decision.

Tire construction influences both the stance and the visual character of a restored 1958 Rambler. A bias-ply tire keeps the car in the construction style associated with the late 1950s, while a radial alternative can change the overall presentation even when the size relationship is close.

That is why many restoration-minded owners begin with the original bias-ply fitment and then decide whether drivability goals justify a radial equivalent. Sidewall treatment also plays a major role, especially where whitewall width is part of the car’s finished look. Matching the construction and sidewall style to the build theme usually matters just as much as choosing the right brand.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1958 Rambler even when the tire size itself is correct on paper. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel width, altered ride height, suspension repairs, or bodywork differences can all influence how a 640-15 or 670-15 tire sits and clears the car.

That is especially important when considering a radial equivalent, since a change in construction or sizing format adds another variable. Checking wheel dimensions, steering clearance, and fender clearance before mounting new tires helps avoid surprises. On a car that has changed hands several times, it is wise to inspect the actual setup rather than rely on assumptions about original equipment.

Before driving a 1958 Rambler on new tires, inspect the wheels for damage or corrosion, confirm that the rim diameter and width suit the tire, and make sure the tires are inflated appropriately for the chosen product. It also helps to check brake components, suspension wear, and visible clearance around the fenders and steering components.

A short shakedown drive is a sensible next step once the basics are confirmed. During that first outing, pay attention to any rubbing, pulling, vibration, or unusual steering feel, then recheck air pressure afterward. On a collector-era car that may have sat for long periods, those early observations are often as important as the installation itself.

Collector-car tires on a 1958 Rambler should be maintained with regular pressure checks, periodic visual inspections, and careful storage habits. Whether the car wears 640-15 or 670-15 tires, watch for cracking, bulges, cuts, uneven tread wear, or gradual air loss, especially if the vehicle is driven infrequently.

A Rambler that spends long stretches parked benefits from being stored away from prolonged sunlight, heat, moisture, and ozone sources such as electric motors or generators. Rolling the car occasionally can also help avoid long-term flat spotting. Even when tread looks good, age and storage history still matter on vintage tires, so condition should be reviewed before any longer drive.