The 1963 Dodge Dart sits at an interesting point in early compact-car history, offering Chrysler styling and packaging in a smaller, lighter platform that still appeals to restorers and longtime Mopar enthusiasts. For tire selection, the main question is not broad compatibility but whether your exact Dart configuration uses 650-13 or 700-13, both in bias-ply construction on 13-inch rims. That opens up choices in traditional whitewall presentation, brand, and tire series, while also leaving room to consider modern radial equivalents. The right direction depends on the sub-model, the wheels actually on the car, and whether appearance or road-use priorities come first.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1963 Dodge Dart
The 1963 Dodge Dart uses two primary tire sizes, and the right one depends on the exact sub-model. Both 650-13 and 700-13 are bias-ply sizes for 13-inch rims, so the first step is confirming whether your Dart is a 6 Cyl., 8 Cyl., or 8 Cyl. Wagon. Once that is settled, the decision shifts to sidewall style, brand, and whether to stay with a traditional bias-ply tire or compare a modern radial equivalent.
A 650-13 size uses a vintage numeric bias-ply format in which the 6.50 figure represents the tire's nominal section width in inches and the 13 identifies the rim diameter. On a 1963 Dodge Dart, this is a traditional bias-ply fitment that suits owners who want the look and road feel associated with an early-1960s compact. Available choices include Coker Classic and US Royal offerings in both wide whitewall and narrow whitewall styles. It is the size to evaluate carefully when restoring a 6 Cyl. Dart or comparing original-style appearance against a radial alternative.
A 700-13 tire follows the same vintage numeric bias-ply system, with the 7.00 figure indicating a wider nominal section width than 650-13 and the 13 calling for a 13-inch rim. For the 1963 Dodge Dart, this size is the primary fitment used more broadly across the V8-powered configurations and also appears on some 6 Cyl. cars. Firestone offers this size in a classic bias-ply series with a wide whitewall presentation. It is the size to confirm when the Dart's exact sub-model or wheel setup points away from the narrower 650-13 fitment.
Sub-model fitment matters on the 1963 Dodge Dart because the available tire sizes are not the same across every configuration. A 6 Cyl. Dart may use either 650-13 or 700-13, while the 8 Cyl. and 8 Cyl. Wagon use 700-13, so identifying the exact sub-model should come before comparing tires.
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1963 Dodge Dart 6 Cyl.
The 1963 Dodge Dart 6 Cyl. is the one sub-model here with two fitment paths, using either 650-13 or 700-13 in bias-ply construction. That makes wheel confirmation especially important before choosing between whitewall styles, brands, or a radial-equivalent approach.
The 1963 Dodge Dart 8 Cyl. uses the 700-13 bias-ply size on a 13-inch rim. Tire selection then becomes more about maintaining a traditional period-style look, comparing available whitewall presentation, and checking wheel compatibility if the car has been changed from stock.
The 1963 Dodge Dart 8 Cyl. Wagon also uses the 700-13 bias-ply size. For buyers, that keeps fitment straightforward and shifts attention toward retaining the right vintage stance, choosing an appropriate whitewall look, and verifying wheel dimensions before considering any radial alternative.
Bias-Ply to Radial Tire Conversion for the 1963 Dodge Dart
The 1963 Dodge Dart's primary bias-ply sizes each have radial-equivalent options to compare. For 650-13, the available choices are 175R13 as an 80-series metric radial, P175/75R13 as a 75-series P-metric radial, P185/70R13 as a 70-series P-metric radial, and 650R13 as a bias-look radial. For 700-13, the equivalents are 185R13, P185/75R13, and P205/70R13. These alternatives span conventional metric, P-metric, and bias-look presentation, with a recommended rim-width range of 4-6 inches; wheel fit, overall dimensions, and clearance should still be checked before changing sizes or construction.
Modern Radial Equivalents
175R13
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (650-13)
P175/75R13
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (650-13)
P185/70R13
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (650-13)
650R13
Bias-look Radial Equivalent (650-13)
185R13
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (700-13)
P185/75R13
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (700-13)
P205/70R13
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (700-13)
Important Considerations When Replacing Bias Ply With Radial
Compare overall diameter and section width carefully to ensure proper fit.
Verify recommended rim range (4-6 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:
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 1963 Dodge Dart Tires for Sale
Available 1963 Dodge Dart tires center on bias-ply 650-13 and 700-13 sizes from Coker Classic, US Royal, and Firestone. The main comparison points are tire series and whitewall treatment, including wide whitewall and narrow whitewall styles, along with rim-width specifications within each size.
These 1963 Dodge Dart tire FAQs focus on the key decisions owners actually face: confirming whether the car uses 650-13 or 700-13, understanding bias-ply versus radial-equivalent choices, comparing whitewall options, and checking wheel fit, condition, and clearance before road use.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1963 Dodge Dart?
A 1963 Dodge Dart uses either 650-13 or 700-13, both in bias-ply construction on 13-inch rims. The 6 Cyl. version can use either size, while the 8 Cyl. and 8 Cyl. Wagon use 700-13. That makes the exact sub-model an important part of tire selection rather than a minor detail.
The next step is confirming what wheels are actually on the car, especially if it has been restored or modified over the years. Once the correct size is established, the choice becomes more about whitewall style, brand, and whether to stay with a traditional bias-ply tire or consider one of the radial-equivalent sizes available for comparison.
What size rim does a 1963 Dodge Dart use?
The 1963 Dodge Dart uses a 13-inch rim with both of its primary tire sizes, 650-13 and 700-13. Even though the tire widths differ, the rim diameter remains the same across these fitments, so the important distinction is the tire size itself rather than a change in wheel diameter.
Rim diameter is only part of the fitment picture, especially on an older car that may no longer have its original wheels. It is worth checking the wheel width as well before ordering tires, because the available products and radial-equivalent options are tied not just to diameter but also to wheel compatibility and the space available in the car's wheel openings.
Do all 1963 Dodge Dart sub-models use the same tire size?
No. The 1963 Dodge Dart 6 Cyl. can use either 650-13 or 700-13, while the 1963 Dodge Dart 8 Cyl. and 8 Cyl. Wagon use 700-13. The Dart line does not have one universal tire size across every covered sub-model, so it is important to identify the car correctly before choosing tires.
That difference matters because 650-13 and 700-13 are not simply styling variations of the same tire. The two sizes change the selection pool, the available whitewall treatments, and the radial-equivalent choices you may want to compare. A quick check of the car's current wheels and existing tire markings can save time and help avoid choosing the wrong size for the sub-model.
Bias-Ply & Radial Options
Is 650-13 a bias-ply or radial tire for the 1963 Dodge Dart?
On the 1963 Dodge Dart, 650-13 is a primary bias-ply tire size. It is used in that form on a 13-inch rim and suits owners who want a traditional early-1960s tire construction and appearance. Radial alternatives do exist, but they are equivalents to compare rather than the original primary fitment format.
That distinction matters because a bias-ply tire and a radial can change both appearance and road feel. A buyer considering a switch should confirm wheel width, overall dimensions, and clearance before moving away from the original-style construction. For a restoration-oriented Dart, staying with a bias-ply often keeps the period presentation more consistent with the car's era.
What radial tire sizes are equivalent to 650-13 and 700-13?
For 650-13, radial equivalents include 175R13, P175/75R13, P185/70R13, and 650R13 as a bias-look radial. For 700-13, the radial equivalents are 185R13, P185/75R13, and P205/70R13. These options cover 80-series metric, 75-series P-metric, and 70-series P-metric formats, with a bias-look radial offered only for the 650-13 size.
The recommended rim-width range for these equivalents is 4-6 inches, which gives a useful starting point when comparing the Dart's wheel setup. Even so, an equivalent size should still be checked against the actual wheel, the car's stance, and available clearance. That is especially important on older vehicles that may have replacement wheels or suspension changes from past ownership.
What should I check before converting my 1963 Dodge Dart from bias-ply to radial tires?
Start by matching the Dart's primary size to the correct radial-equivalent group, then verify that the wheel diameter and wheel width suit the radial size being considered. For 650-13 and 700-13 applications, the radial-equivalent rim-width guidance is 4-6 inches. It also helps to compare the car's current tire markings so the conversion begins from the correct original-style size.
A radial equivalent should be treated as an alternative, not an automatic swap. Clearance at the fender, steering range, and suspension condition all matter, especially on a compact 1960s car. Owners should also think about priorities: a bias-ply tire preserves a more traditional presentation, while a radial-equivalent choice may be more appealing for regular road driving if the setup supports it.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 1963 Dodge Dart tire?
Begin with the correct primary size for the exact car, since a 1963 Dodge Dart may use either 650-13 or 700-13 depending on sub-model. Both are bias-ply sizes for 13-inch rims, so the decision then shifts to construction goals, whitewall appearance, and the brand or tire series available in the proper fitment.
A restoration-focused owner may lean toward a period-style bias-ply tire with the right sidewall presentation, while a road-use-focused owner may also review the available radial equivalents. It is also smart to compare wheel width, maximum load figures such as 1150@32 psi or 1270@32 psi where relevant, and the condition of the car's wheels before settling on one tire.
What sidewall styles are available for 1963 Dodge Dart tires?
The available 1963 Dodge Dart tires include wide whitewall and narrow whitewall styles. In 650-13, both Coker Classic and US Royal offer wide whitewall and narrow whitewall choices. In 700-13, the available Firestone option uses a wide whitewall presentation, giving that size a more limited sidewall selection.
Sidewall style has a strong effect on the car's visual character, especially on an early-1960s Dodge where the tire is a noticeable part of the overall look. Choosing between a narrower or wider whitewall should be guided by the appearance you want to create, while still keeping the correct size and wheel compatibility ahead of purely cosmetic preference.
What brands offer tires for the 1963 Dodge Dart?
Tires for the 1963 Dodge Dart are available from Coker Classic, US Royal, and Firestone across the covered primary sizes. Coker Classic and US Royal appear in 650-13, while Firestone appears in 700-13. Each brand is tied to a classic bias-ply tire series rather than a modern high-volume passenger tire line.
Brand matters mostly as part of the overall package, not as a shortcut to the right tire. The better comparison is which brand offers the correct size, the sidewall style you want, and wheel compatibility that matches the car. Once those basics are in place, the remaining choice is usually about presentation and how closely the tire suits your restoration or driving goals.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1963 Dodge Dart?
For a period-style 1963 Dodge Dart, the starting point is the correct primary bias-ply size for the car's sub-model: either 650-13 or 700-13. From there, the best choice usually comes down to the whitewall treatment and brand presentation that match the look you want without stepping outside the Dart's proper vintage tire format.
A careful restoration should treat size and construction as the foundation, then use sidewall style to fine-tune appearance. If exact originality is important, marque literature, build documentation, and model-specific historical references are worth consulting before choosing a particular whitewall width. That approach helps preserve the car's era-appropriate stance without assuming every vintage-style tire was used the same way.
How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 1963 Dodge Dart?
Tire construction changes more than ride and handling; it also changes how a restored 1963 Dodge Dart looks at a glance. A bias-ply tire gives the car a more traditional early-1960s presentation, especially when paired with the right whitewall treatment. A radial-equivalent tire can shift that visual impression even when the overall size is in the same general range.
That is why many restoration-oriented owners start with the original-style bias-ply size and then decide whether road-use priorities justify a radial alternative. The choice should be made with the car's intended role in mind, whether that means show presentation, occasional cruising, or more frequent driving. Construction, sidewall style, and wheel fit all work together in the final appearance.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1963 Dodge Dart?
Yes. Modifications can change how a 1963 Dodge Dart accepts either 650-13 or 700-13 tires, even though both primary sizes use a 13-inch rim. Aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, suspension changes, or body work can all affect clearance and make a previously straightforward fitment decision more complicated than it appears on paper.
An owner working with a modified Dart should inspect the actual wheel diameter and width first, then check steering clearance and fender space at normal ride height. That is especially important before trying a radial equivalent, since the car may no longer match its original setup. Tire selection should follow the real wheel and vehicle configuration, not assumptions based on model year alone.
What should I inspect before driving a 1963 Dodge Dart on new tires?
Before driving a 1963 Dodge Dart on new tires, inspect the wheels for damage or corrosion, confirm the tire size matches the car's sub-model and wheel setup, and make sure inflation is appropriate for the tire being used. It is also wise to check that the new tires clear the fenders and steering components through a full range of movement.
A collector car deserves a broader check before road use, not just a glance at the tread. Look for loose wheel hardware, uneven suspension stance, rubbing marks, and any signs that the car has sat for long periods. A short, careful test drive can reveal pull, vibration, or clearance issues early, before the Dart is taken on a longer outing.
How should 650-13 or 700-13 tires on a collector 1963 Dodge Dart be maintained?
Collector-car tires on a 1963 Dodge Dart should be inspected regularly for air loss, sidewall cracking, tread wear, cuts, and bulges, even if the car is driven only occasionally. Both 650-13 and 700-13 sizes can age out before they wear out, so condition matters as much as mileage on a lightly used vintage Mopar.
Good storage habits help preserve the tires between drives. Keeping the Dart away from prolonged sunlight, moisture, heat, and ozone sources can reduce premature aging, and maintaining proper inflation helps protect the casing shape while the car sits. Periodic checks of wheel condition and tire clearance are also worthwhile, especially after service work or seasonal recommissioning.