1962 Metropolitan 1500 Tires

The 1962 Metropolitan 1500 is associated with two primary tire sizes: 520-13 and 560-13. Both are vintage numeric bias-ply sizes designed for 13-inch rims, and the Base sub-model is tied to both sizes rather than to one exclusive fitment.

That means the right choice depends less on trim level and more on the wheels currently on the car and the appearance you want to preserve. Before selecting a tire, confirm the wheel diameter and width, then compare the tire’s intended rim-width range and check clearance around the fenders and suspension.

The primary tire sizes for the 1962 Metropolitan 1500 are built for a 13-inch rim diameter. Both 520-13 and 560-13 share that same rim diameter, so the first wheel measurement to confirm is 13 inches rather than switching between different wheel diameters.

Rim diameter is only part of the fitment picture on a small vintage car like the Metropolitan. Wheel width should also be checked before choosing between available tires, especially when comparing 520-13 and 560-13 products or considering a radial equivalent with its own recommended rim-width range.

A size like 520-13 is a numeric bias-ply size. The 5.20 number refers to the tire’s nominal section width in inches, and the 13 indicates the wheel diameter in inches, making it one of the traditional sizing formats seen on compact cars of this era.

Understanding that format helps when comparing it with 560-13 or with radial-equivalent sizes such as 155R13 and P155/75R13. The sizing system itself does not guarantee interchangeability, so wheel width, overall tire dimensions, and vehicle clearance should still be checked before making a change.

For the 1962 Metropolitan 1500, 520-13 is a primary bias-ply tire size. It uses a vintage numeric sizing format and preserves the construction style most closely associated with the car’s original-era tire presentation and driving feel.

That matters because choosing another 520-13 bias-ply tire keeps the discussion centered on sidewall style, brand, and rim compatibility rather than on a construction change. A radial alternative can still be considered, but the wheel width and physical fit should be reviewed before moving away from the primary bias-ply fitment.

Radial equivalents for 520-13 include 155R13 as an 80-series metric radial, P155/75R13 as a 75-series P-metric radial, and P155/70R13 as a 70-series P-metric radial. These are comparison-size alternatives for the original bias-ply fitment rather than additional primary factory-style sizes.

Each option follows a different sizing convention and profile approach, so the choice is not just about finding a 13-inch radial. The recommended rim-width range is 4 to 5 inches, and clearance around the body, steering, and suspension should be checked before converting from bias-ply.

Start by matching the radial equivalent to the original tire size you are replacing, such as 155R13, P155/75R13, or P155/70R13 for a 520-13 application. Wheel diameter and wheel width should be confirmed first, since the recommended rim-width range for these equivalents is 4 to 5 inches.

The next step is checking how the chosen radial compares within the car’s available space. Steering clearance, fender clearance, suspension condition, and the actual wheel setup all matter, especially if the Metropolitan has been modified or is no longer running its original-style wheels.

A 520-13 tire choice starts with confirming that this is the size you want on your 1962 Metropolitan 1500, then comparing the available bias-ply options by construction details, sidewall style, and rim-width compatibility. In this size, choices include Firestone and Premium Sport offerings with blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall looks.

The best comparison points are the tire’s intended appearance, whether the car is being restored or driven regularly, and whether the wheel width matches the tire’s requirements. Load capacity and tire series can also help narrow the selection once size and construction are settled.

The 1962 Metropolitan 1500 has several sidewall treatments available across its tire options. Depending on size and product line, choices include blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall designs, giving the car a noticeably different visual character even when staying within the correct vintage size range.

That makes sidewall style one of the biggest appearance decisions on this car. A blackwall leans more understated, while narrow and wide whitewalls create a stronger period-style look, so the right choice depends on the presentation you want and the tire size that matches your wheel setup.

Tires for the 1962 Metropolitan 1500 are available from Firestone, Premium Sport, and BFGoodrich. Those brands appear across the two primary sizes and cover more than one series, including Firestone Classic Bias Ply, Premium Sport Lowrider, and Silvertown Classic Bias Ply products.

Brand should be compared alongside size, sidewall style, and wheel compatibility rather than treated as the only decision. Since some brands appear in one size and not the other, it helps to settle on 520-13 or 560-13 first, then compare the style and specifications available within that size.

For a period-style 1962 Metropolitan 1500, the starting point is one of the two primary bias-ply sizes, 520-13 or 560-13. Staying with a bias-ply construction keeps the car visually aligned with its era, and the available product range allows a choice between a more understated or more decorative sidewall treatment.

The right tire depends on how the car is being presented and on the wheel setup currently installed. Owners pursuing strict historical accuracy should compare size and sidewall details with marque references or restoration documentation, while others may simply focus on achieving a convincing vintage look.

Tire construction changes the visual impression of a restored 1962 Metropolitan 1500 as much as it changes the driving feel. A bias-ply tire supports the car’s traditional stance and vintage presentation, while a modern radial equivalent can shift the look even when the wheel diameter remains the same.

That is why restoration-minded owners often decide on construction before comparing brands or sidewall details. If the goal is a distinctly period-style appearance, the primary bias-ply sizes usually provide the clearest visual match to the car’s era, with whitewall width then shaping the final presentation.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1962 Metropolitan 1500 even when the tire size itself is associated with the car. Changes to wheels, wheel width, suspension height, or body clearance can alter how a 520-13, 560-13, or radial-equivalent tire sits and moves through its full steering range.

That is especially important on a compact vintage car with limited space around the tire. Any Metropolitan with aftermarket wheels, altered springs, or body changes should have wheel dimensions and clearance checked carefully before a new tire is selected or a bias-ply-to-radial conversion is made.

Before driving a 1962 Metropolitan 1500 on new tires, inspect the wheels for correct diameter and condition, make sure the tires are inflated properly for their intended use, and look over the suspension and steering for looseness or wear. Lug hardware and valve stems should also be checked before road use.

A short, careful test drive is a smart next step, especially on an older car that may have been stored. During that first drive, pay attention to clearance at full steering lock, unusual vibration, and whether the car tracks consistently, then recheck inflation and fastener tightness afterward.

Collector-car tires in 520-13 or 560-13 should be inspected regularly for cracking, cuts, bulges, irregular wear, and signs of air loss, even if the 1962 Metropolitan 1500 is driven only occasionally. Pressure checks matter because low annual mileage does not prevent aging or storage-related deterioration.

Good maintenance also includes keeping the car away from prolonged sunlight, moisture, and ozone sources during storage, and moving it occasionally so the tires are not left loaded in one spot for too long. Any tire showing visible age-related damage should be evaluated before road use.