1959 Goggomobil T700 Tires

The 1959 Goggomobil T700 is associated with two tire sizes: 125R12 in radial construction and 4.80-12 in bias-ply construction. Both sizes use a 12-inch rim, so the fitment question is mainly about which construction and sizing format suits the vehicle and your intended use.

That means the first step is confirming the wheel setup actually on the vehicle, especially if it has been restored or modified over the years. Once the 12-inch rim is verified, the decision becomes whether to keep a traditional bias-ply approach or choose a radial-format tire while still preserving the T700’s compact proportions.

The 1959 Goggomobil T700 uses a 12-inch rim with both of its associated tire sizes. The radial 125R12 and the bias-ply 4.80-12 are both built around that same rim diameter, which simplifies the basic wheel-diameter question.

Rim diameter is only part of the picture on a small vehicle like this. Wheel width still needs to be checked, particularly if a radial tire is under consideration, because radial products can carry specific rim-width guidance that affects tire shape and overall fit. Clearance around the fenders and suspension should also be confirmed before road use.

The 1959 Goggomobil T700 Base is associated with the same two sizes used on this model: 125R12 radial and 4.80-12 bias-ply. There is no separate covered sub-model tire size to sort through here, so the main fitment difference is construction rather than trim-specific sizing.

That makes selection more straightforward, but it does not remove the need to inspect the actual vehicle. Older microcars are often restored over time, and wheels may not always be original to the vehicle. Verifying the 12-inch wheel diameter, wheel width, and the space available around the tire helps avoid choosing a size or construction that changes the fit unexpectedly.

4.80-12 is the bias-ply tire size associated with the 1959 Goggomobil T700. It uses a vintage numeric size format, with 4.80 describing nominal section width in inches and 12 indicating the wheel diameter.

Choosing that size keeps the vehicle in a traditional tire construction format, which can matter for restoration-minded owners who want a period-style presentation. It is still wise to inspect the actual wheels and surrounding clearance, since many small collector vehicles have seen wheel changes, suspension work, or long periods of storage that can affect how any new tire sits and performs.

The 1959 Goggomobil T700 is associated with both a bias-ply option, 4.80-12, and a radial option, 125R12. Bias-ply usually appeals to owners who want a more traditional vintage presentation, while the radial format is often considered by owners who prioritize road use within the correct 12-inch wheel diameter.

The right choice depends on how the T700 is restored and driven. A bias-ply selection supports a period-style appearance, while a radial choice may better suit an owner seeking a more modern construction format. Either way, wheel width, tire clearance, and the condition of steering and suspension components deserve attention before settling on one path.

A move from 4.80-12 bias-ply to 125R12 radial on a 1959 Goggomobil T700 starts with the wheel itself. Both sizes use a 12-inch rim, but radial tires still need the right wheel width and enough room around the fender, suspension, and steering range.

The rest of the vehicle matters just as much as the nominal size. Inspect the wheel condition, suspension bushings, steering components, and alignment before putting the car into regular use on a different construction type. That extra check is especially important on a lightweight collector vehicle, where small changes in wheel setup or component wear can have a noticeable effect.

Start with the basics: 125R12 is the radial size associated with the 1959 Goggomobil T700, and it belongs on a 12-inch wheel. The available options in this size center on the Michelin X Radial series, so the choice is less about multiple series and more about sidewall presentation and wheel compatibility.

A small vehicle like the T700 benefits from careful attention to proportions, so sidewall style can make a visible difference. Blackwall and Narrow Whitewall versions create different visual impressions even within the same size family. Rim width should also be verified before installation, especially when using a radial product with a stated rim-width range.

The currently available 125R12 radial products for the 1959 Goggomobil T700 include both Blackwall and Narrow Whitewall sidewall styles. Those options keep the same core radial size while changing the visual presentation of the tire on the vehicle.

That choice matters more than it might on a larger car, because the tire is such a visible part of a microcar’s overall stance. A Blackwall tends to give a simple, understated look, while a Narrow Whitewall adds a stronger vintage accent. Appearance should be balanced with the correct size, wheel compatibility, and the intended use of the vehicle.

The available 125R12 radial options for the 1959 Goggomobil T700 come from Michelin. They are part of the Michelin X Radial family, which keeps the selection focused on one established radial series rather than spreading it across multiple brands.

With a narrow brand range, comparison shifts toward the details that still vary within the size, including sidewall style and rim-width suitability. On a vehicle this compact, that can be just as important as brand variety. It is also worth confirming whether the goal is radial road use or a more traditional bias-ply presentation before making the final choice.

For a period-style 1959 Goggomobil T700, the 4.80-12 bias-ply size is the more traditional starting point because it keeps the vehicle in a vintage numeric bias-ply format. The alternative 125R12 remains useful when a radial construction is preferred, but it changes the construction approach even though it stays on the same 12-inch rim diameter.

Restoration goals should guide the decision. A display-focused or historically minded build often leans toward the bias-ply route, while a driver-oriented vehicle may make a case for the radial size. If exact originality matters beyond general period style, marque-specific references and historical documentation are worth consulting before finalizing sidewall and construction choices.

Tire construction changes more than ride feel on a restored 1959 Goggomobil T700; it also influences the vehicle’s overall visual character. A 4.80-12 bias-ply keeps a more traditional vintage format, while a 125R12 radial gives the same 12-inch wheel diameter a different styling and presentation context.

Sidewall treatment adds another layer to the appearance decision. In the available 125R12 radial range, Blackwall and Narrow Whitewall options can shift the look from restrained to more restoration-oriented without changing the size itself. The cleanest result usually comes from matching tire construction and sidewall style to the era you want the vehicle to suggest.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1959 Goggomobil T700 even when the nominal tire size remains within the known 12-inch range. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel width, suspension work, ride-height changes, or body repairs can all alter the space available for either 125R12 radial or 4.80-12 bias-ply tires.

That is why the actual vehicle should be checked rather than relying only on the original size association. A small microcar has less excess space than a larger vehicle, so steering clearance and fender clearance deserve close attention. Wheel condition also matters, since older rims may have wear or damage that affects how a tire seats and runs.

Before driving a 1959 Goggomobil T700 on new tires, inspect the wheels, valve stems, and the general condition of the suspension and steering. Tire pressure should be set correctly for the chosen tire, and the new tires themselves should be checked for proper seating, even wear, and any sign of rubbing once mounted.

A short, careful test drive is a good next step on a collector vehicle of this size. Pay attention to steering response, vibration, and any contact noise at full lock or over bumps. It also helps to recheck inflation and wheel fastener security after the first miles, especially if the vehicle has been off the road for an extended period.

Tires on a collector 1959 Goggomobil T700 should be maintained with regular pressure checks, routine visual inspection, and storage habits that limit unnecessary aging. Even lightly used tires deserve attention for cracking, bulges, cuts, uneven wear, and slow air loss, because collector vehicles often sit longer than modern daily drivers.

Storage conditions make a real difference over time. Keeping the vehicle away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps preserve tire condition whether it wears 4.80-12 bias-ply tires or 125R12 radials. Periodic movement also helps avoid prolonged flat spotting, and any tire with questionable condition should be evaluated before road use.