1963 Studebaker Lark Tires

A 1963 Studebaker Lark can use 600-15, 6.50-15, or 670-15, depending on the exact sub-model. All three are primary bias-ply fitments and all use a 15-inch rim. The size is not universal across the full Lark lineup, so the right answer depends on whether the car is a six-cylinder, V8, convertible, or wagon configuration.

That means the first step is confirming the exact sub-model and the wheel setup currently on the car. Many restored and long-owned vehicles have seen wheel or tire changes over time, so it helps to compare the existing tire size, the wheel diameter, and the intended appearance before choosing among blackwall, narrow whitewall, wide whitewall, or radial-equivalent alternatives.

The 1963 Studebaker Lark uses a 15-inch rim across its primary tire fitments. The three sizes associated with the model range are 600-15, 6.50-15, and 670-15, and each of those sizes is built around a 15-inch wheel diameter. Rim width can vary by tire and should be checked against the specific tire being considered.

A matching 15-inch diameter does not mean every tire choice is automatically suitable for every wheel. Before final selection, compare the tire's rim-width requirement with the wheel on the car, especially if the Lark has been modified or is wearing replacement wheels. That extra check becomes even more important when considering a radial-equivalent alternative instead of a traditional bias-ply tire.

No, 1963 Studebaker Lark sub-models do not all use the same tire size. Some six-cylinder and V8 versions share more than one possible fitment, while the 8 Cyl. Convertible and 8 Cyl. Wagon are tied to 670-15. Across the lineup, the primary sizes are 600-15, 6.50-15, and 670-15, all in bias-ply construction.

That variation is why sub-model identification matters before comparing products. A buyer choosing tires for a 6 Cyl. sedan, for example, should not assume the same size used on a V8 convertible applies automatically. Once the right sub-model is confirmed, the next decisions become sidewall appearance, tire series, and whether the specific size offers a radial equivalent worth evaluating.

On the 1963 Studebaker Lark, 670-15 is a primary bias-ply tire size. It appears in that traditional construction across several Lark sub-models and is offered in multiple bias-ply series and sidewall styles. A separate 670R15 bias-look radial exists as an equivalent, but that is an alternative format rather than the primary construction for the vehicle.

Keeping a 670-15 bias-ply tire preserves the original construction type and period-style presentation of the car. Switching to a radial equivalent changes the construction, so the wheel width, overall dimensions of the chosen alternative, and body and steering clearance should all be checked carefully. That is especially important on cars with replacement wheels, altered ride height, or aging suspension components.

Radial equivalents for 670-15 on a 1963 Studebaker Lark 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. These give buyers several ways to compare modern radial sizing with the original bias-ply fitment.

Each of those alternatives uses a different sizing convention, so they should be treated as comparison options rather than automatic replacements. The recommended rim-width range associated with the 670-15 equivalents is 5-7 inches, which makes wheel measurement an important first check. After that, confirm body, fender, and steering clearance before committing to any conversion from the original bias-ply layout.

Start by confirming the Lark's exact primary size, since the car may use 600-15, 6.50-15, or 670-15 depending on sub-model. Radial equivalents are available for 600-15 and 670-15, but each equivalent uses its own sizing format and recommended wheel range. The wheel diameter, wheel width, and chosen radial size all need to work together before any change in construction.

It also helps to inspect the actual condition of the car before changing tire type. Steering clearance, fender clearance, suspension wear, and ride height can all affect how a radial alternative behaves on an older vehicle. A Lark that has aftermarket wheels or prior restoration work deserves an extra close look so the conversion supports the car's appearance and road-use goals.

A 670-15 tire for a 1963 Studebaker Lark should first match the sub-model that uses that size, then the wheel on the car. From there, the main differences are brand, tire series, sidewall style, rim-width specification, and in some cases load figures tied to inflation pressure. Available 670-15 options range from simple blackwalls to narrow and wide whitewalls.

The best choice depends on how the Lark is being presented and driven. A restoration-oriented car may lean toward a traditional whitewall treatment, while a more understated build may suit a blackwall. Buyers considering a radial-equivalent alternative instead should compare the wheel and clearance requirements carefully rather than assuming the same visual proportions or fitment behavior as the original bias-ply size.

1963 Studebaker Lark tires are available in several sidewall styles, including blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall. The broadest variety appears in 670-15, while 600-15 includes blackwall and wide whitewall options. That gives owners room to match the car's appearance without changing away from the correct primary size family for the sub-model.

Sidewall style is mostly an appearance decision, but it still needs to start with the right tire size and construction. A whitewall can reinforce a more formal, restoration-oriented look, while a blackwall keeps the presentation more restrained. If exact historical originality matters on a specific Lark, compare the tire choice against marque references and the car's restoration goals before settling on a stripe or whitewall width.

Tires for the 1963 Studebaker Lark are available from BFGoodrich, Firestone, US Royal, Goodyear, Universal Vintage Tire, Coker Classic, Excelsior, Avon, and STA. Brand variety is concentrated most heavily in 670-15, while 600-15 has a smaller but still useful BFGoodrich selection. Each brand brings its own series names and sidewall treatments within the correct vintage-style size range.

Brand choice should be treated as one part of the decision rather than the whole answer. The right tire still depends on the Lark's exact sub-model, the wheel dimensions, the construction being retained or changed, and the appearance the owner wants to achieve. Comparing the series and sidewall options within the correct size usually tells more than choosing by brand name alone.

A period-style 1963 Studebaker Lark usually starts with the correct primary bias-ply size for the exact sub-model: 600-15, 6.50-15, or 670-15. From there, the choice narrows by sidewall style and tire series. The broadest period-style selection appears in 670-15, where blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall options are all available.

The most convincing result comes from matching the tire's look to the way the car is being restored rather than chasing a one-size-fits-all answer. A wagon, convertible, or V8 car may call for a different visual balance than a plain sedan. When exact historical authenticity matters, compare the chosen size and sidewall treatment with marque-club guidance or vehicle-specific restoration references.

Tire construction has a visible effect on a restored 1963 Studebaker Lark because the car's primary fitments are bias-ply. A bias-ply tire supports the traditional stance and visual character associated with early-1960s domestic cars, especially when paired with an appropriate blackwall or whitewall treatment. Radial equivalents can change the look even when they remain close in intended size range.

That does not make one construction universally right for every restored Lark. Some owners prioritize a more traditional presentation, while others want a radial alternative that still respects the car's overall proportions. The important point is to choose intentionally: confirm the sub-model, compare the wheel setup, and decide whether appearance or a change in tire format is the higher priority.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1963 Studebaker Lark even when the tire size itself is correct for the sub-model. Replacement wheels, altered rim width, suspension changes, ride-height adjustments, and body or brake modifications can all change the space available around the tire. That matters with both original bias-ply fitments and any radial-equivalent alternative.

A Lark that has been restored over many years may not still match its original wheel and chassis setup. Before choosing tires, check the actual wheel diameter and width, then inspect front steering clearance and rear fender room under load. That quick review helps prevent selecting a tire that looks right on paper but creates avoidable fitment issues once the car is back on the road.

Before driving a 1963 Studebaker Lark on new tires, inspect the wheels, valve stems, wheel hardware, and the surrounding suspension and steering components. The tires themselves should be checked for proper inflation, bead seating, and even clearance at full steering lock where applicable. A roadworthy setup depends on more than mounting the correct size on the rim.

Older collector cars often reveal issues once fresh tires are installed and driven. Brake pull, worn bushings, loose steering parts, and poor alignment can all affect how the car feels on the road. A short low-speed test drive, followed by a second look for rubbing or unusual wear, is a smart way to make sure the Lark is ready for regular use.

670-15 tires on a collector 1963 Studebaker Lark should be maintained with regular pressure checks, visual inspection, and careful storage habits. Look for cracking, cuts, bulges, uneven wear, or slow air loss, especially on cars that sit for long periods. Collector vehicles often age tires by time and environment long before they wear them out by mileage.

Keeping the car away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps preserve the tires between drives. It also pays to move the car periodically and inspect the wheels and suspension at the same time. A Lark that is driven only occasionally still benefits from routine tire attention, since age-related issues can develop even when the tread looks usable.