1960 Bentley S-Type Tires

The 1960 Bentley S-Type uses an 820-15 tire size. This is a numeric bias-ply fitment for a 15-inch rim, and the covered Base sub-model uses that same primary size.

That makes the main fitment question fairly simple, but the selection process still matters. The next step is confirming that the car still has the intended wheel diameter and a suitable wheel width, especially if it has seen restoration work or later wheel changes, then deciding between blackwall, narrow whitewall, wide whitewall, or a radial-equivalent path.

The primary tire fitment for a 1960 Bentley S-Type uses a 15-inch rim diameter. That rim diameter aligns with the 820-15 tire size used on the car.

Rim diameter is only part of the picture on a collector car like this. Before selecting tires, it is worth confirming the actual wheel width and making sure the wheels on the car have not been changed over the years, since diameter alone does not settle clearance, appearance, or compatibility with bias-ply and radial-equivalent options.

An 820-15 is a vintage numeric bias-ply size. The 820 refers to an approximate 8.20-inch section-width class, while the 15 indicates the wheel diameter in inches.

This older sizing format does not read like a modern metric radial size, so it helps to interpret it correctly before comparing alternatives. Once the size is confirmed, the real choice becomes whether to keep the traditional bias-ply construction and period-style appearance or compare the available radial equivalents with careful attention to wheel setup and clearance.

For the 1960 Bentley S-Type, 820-15 is the primary bias-ply tire size. The available primary products in this fitment are bias-ply, which matches the vintage sizing system used on the car.

That matters because choosing a bias-ply keeps the car in its traditional tire construction, while moving to a radial means stepping into an equivalent-size decision rather than simply picking another 820-15 bias-ply. Owners comparing the two should verify wheel width, overall tire dimensions, and clearance instead of assuming the same size code answers every compatibility question.

Radial equivalents for 820-15 include 235R15, P235/75R15, P255/70R15, and 820R15. Those cover an 80-series metric radial, a 75-series P-metric radial, a 70-series P-metric radial, and a bias-look radial alternative.

Each of those options follows a different sizing convention, so the decision is not just radial versus bias-ply but also which radial format makes the most sense for the car. A 6-8 inch recommended rim-width range is associated with these equivalents, and wheel width, tire dimensions, and body and steering clearance should be checked before conversion.

A bias-look radial equivalent is available for the 1960 Bentley S-Type in size 820R15. That option is intended to give a more traditional visual presentation than a conventional modern metric radial while still being a radial construction.

This can be appealing when the goal is to preserve the car's vintage stance without staying with a full bias-ply setup. Even so, it should be treated as an equivalent rather than an automatic substitute, so the wheel width, tire dimensions, and available clearance around fenders and steering components should still be verified on the actual car.

Start with the correct 820-15 size and the type of presentation the car should have. In this size, choices include traditional bias-ply construction, multiple brands, and sidewall treatments ranging from blackwall to narrow whitewall and wide whitewall.

From there, compare how the car will actually be used. A restoration-oriented car may call for a more period-style look, while a road-driven example may lead you to compare radial equivalents as well. Wheel width, load capacity figures where given, and the overall look of the car should guide the final decision more than brand name alone.

The 1960 Bentley S-Type has 820-15 tire options with blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall sidewall styles. That gives owners room to choose a more understated look or a more formal period-style presentation within the same basic fitment.

Sidewall choice can change the car's visual character more than many buyers expect, especially on a large luxury sedan with a tall side profile. The right option depends on the restoration direction, the trim and paint combination, and whether the goal is a restrained touring appearance or a stronger mid-century whitewall presence.

Available 820-15 tires for the 1960 Bentley S-Type include BFGoodrich, Firestone, US Royal, Universal Vintage Tire, and Avon. These appear across classic bias-ply series as well as more specialized offerings in the same rim diameter.

Brand is only one part of the decision, since the available products also differ in sidewall treatment, tire series, and intended character. Comparing the style of the tire, its wheel-width compatibility, and whether it is aimed at traditional road use or a more specialized application will usually be more useful than focusing on the brand by itself.

A period-style 1960 Bentley S-Type usually starts with the 820-15 bias-ply size, since that preserves the car's vintage sizing format and traditional tire profile. From there, the choice often comes down to blackwall versus whitewall presentation and which brand or classic tire series best suits the look being restored.

Exact originality can be more specific than size alone, so owners pursuing a highly detailed restoration should compare their car against marque references, period photography, or other vehicle-specific historical guidance. For many restorations, though, staying with the proper 820-15 bias-ply format is the most important first step in getting the stance and character right.

Tire construction affects more than ride and handling on a restored 1960 Bentley S-Type; it also shapes the car's visual character. An 820-15 bias-ply keeps the vintage format and traditional presentation, while a radial equivalent can change the way the tire looks even when it remains in the same general fitment range.

That difference matters on a formal luxury car where sidewall shape and overall stance are highly visible. Owners focused on a restoration-oriented appearance often stay with bias-ply or consider a bias-look radial, while those prioritizing road use may accept a more modern look in exchange for a different construction and should evaluate the result carefully on the car.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1960 Bentley S-Type even when the intended size is still 820-15. Changes to wheel width, wheel design, ride height, suspension components, or body clearance can all influence how a tire sits and moves within the wheel opening.

That is especially important if the car has been restored over many years or changed from its original wheel setup. A radial equivalent also deserves its own checks rather than assumptions, since tire construction and proportions can differ. Confirming wheel dimensions and checking clearance through steering and suspension travel helps avoid expensive guesswork.

Before driving a 1960 Bentley S-Type on new tires, inspect the wheels, confirm the rim diameter and width, and make sure each tire is mounted and inflated appropriately for its specification. It is also smart to look over valve stems, wheel condition, and basic suspension health before the first real road test.

A careful walkaround after installation is just as important. Check for any sign of rubbing at full steering lock, verify that the tires sit evenly, and watch for vibration or unusual tracking during the first miles. Collector cars that have spent long periods parked can reveal wheel, alignment, or suspension issues once fresh tires are fitted.

820-15 tires on a collector 1960 Bentley S-Type should be checked regularly for air loss, tread wear, sidewall cracking, cuts, bulges, and any change in how the car sits or steers. Low-use collector vehicles need inspection even when mileage is minimal, because age and storage conditions matter as much as road use.

Keeping the car away from prolonged heat, direct sunlight, standing moisture, and ozone sources helps preserve tire condition over time. Regular pressure checks and occasional close inspection of the inner sidewalls are worthwhile, especially before a longer drive. Any tire that shows structural damage or age-related deterioration deserves professional evaluation before road use.