1964 BMW 3200 Tires

The 1964 BMW 3200 uses two primary bias-ply tire sizes: 6.50-15 and 670-15. Both are 15-inch fitments, and the covered 3200 S & SC sub-model is associated with those two sizes rather than one single universal size.

That means the right choice depends on the wheel and tire setup currently on the car. Before selecting a replacement, check the size stamped on the existing tire, confirm the wheel diameter, and make sure the car has not been altered with different wheels or past replacements that changed its fitment pattern.

The 1964 BMW 3200 uses a 15-inch rim with its primary tire fitments. Both 6.50-15 and 670-15 are built around that 15-inch wheel diameter, so matching the tire to a 15-inch rim is a basic part of correct selection.

Rim diameter alone is not the whole story, though. Wheel width still matters, especially if the car has replacement wheels or if a radial equivalent is under consideration for 670-15. Checking the actual wheel dimensions on the car helps avoid ordering a tire that matches the diameter but is mismatched to the wheel or vehicle clearance.

On a 1964 BMW 3200, 670-15 is a vintage numeric bias-ply size. The 6.70 portion refers to the tire’s nominal section width in inches, and the 15 identifies the rim diameter, also in inches.

That format differs from later metric and P-metric radial sizing, so it can look unfamiliar to modern buyers. Interpreting it correctly helps when comparing traditional bias-ply choices with radial-equivalent alternatives such as 195R15 or P205/75R15, because the sizing language changes even though the replacement search still starts from the original 670-15 fitment.

For the 1964 BMW 3200, 670-15 is a bias-ply tire size in its primary fitment form. The available 670-15 product assortment is built around classic bias-ply construction, which suits buyers who want a traditional tire format and period-style presentation.

That distinction matters because a radial equivalent and a bias-ply tire are not the same construction, even when they are used as size alternatives. Anyone moving away from the primary bias-ply fitment should confirm wheel width, overall tire dimensions, and body or steering clearance before treating a radial size as a practical option for road use.

Radial equivalents for 670-15 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. Each one represents a different sizing convention or visual approach rather than the same tire with a different label.

A recommended rim-width range of 5-7 inches is associated with those equivalents, which makes wheel measurement important before conversion. Even with the same 15-inch rim diameter, the owner should still compare wheel width, vehicle clearance, and the car’s current setup so the selected radial alternative is evaluated carefully rather than assumed interchangeable.

Start by confirming which original size is on the car, since the 1964 BMW 3200 uses both 6.50-15 and 670-15 as primary bias-ply fitments, while radial-equivalent sizes are given for 670-15. Wheel diameter should be verified first, followed by wheel width and the tire dimensions of the intended radial alternative.

The next step is checking practical clearance around the fenders, suspension, and steering range, especially on a collector car that may have changed over time. A conversion also changes the tire’s construction character, so owners focused on authenticity, period appearance, or preserving the car’s traditional look should weigh those goals before moving away from bias-ply.

Begin with the basics: confirm that 670-15 is the size actually on the car, then compare construction, rim-width compatibility, and sidewall style. For the 1964 BMW 3200, 670-15 choices are bias-ply and span multiple classic series, so selection is shaped as much by appearance as by fitment.

After size is confirmed, the main decision becomes visual and practical. Blackwall gives a more understated look, while narrow whitewall and wide whitewall options create a more formal period-style presentation. It also helps to compare load figures where shown, along with the intended use of the car, whether that means display, touring, or occasional road use.

For 670-15 fitment on the 1964 BMW 3200, available sidewall styles include blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall. That gives owners a broad appearance range, from restrained and sporting to more formal and restoration-oriented, without leaving the correct size family.

Sidewall choice can change the car’s visual character almost as much as the wheel itself, so it is worth comparing the tire against the BMW’s trim, paint, and intended presentation. Buyers aiming for an exact restoration standard should also verify historical appearance details through marque-specific references before assuming any whitewall width is appropriate for their car.

The 1964 BMW 3200 has 670-15 tire options from Firestone, US Royal, Coker Classic, Universal Vintage Tire, BFGoodrich, Avon, Goodyear, Excelsior, and STA. Those brands appear across several classic bias-ply series, including Firestone Classic Bias Ply, US Royal Classic Bias Ply, Silvertown Classic Bias Ply, and multiple Goodyear Super Cushion lines.

That range gives the buyer more than a simple brand choice. It creates meaningful variation in sidewall treatment, rim-width specification, and visual character from one series to another. The smartest approach is to narrow the field by correct size and wheel compatibility first, then compare the appearance and product details that matter for the BMW’s intended use.

A period-style 1964 BMW 3200 tire choice starts with retaining one of the car’s primary bias-ply sizes, 6.50-15 or 670-15, depending on the setup actually on the vehicle. Within 670-15, the available bias-ply selection offers a strong foundation for a traditional presentation because it includes multiple classic brands and sidewall treatments.

Appearance goals should guide the final decision once fitment is confirmed. Blackwall can suit a restrained touring look, while narrow or wide whitewalls create a more formal vintage impression. When exact originality matters, it is wise to compare the chosen tire against marque references, restoration photos, and vehicle-specific historical material before settling on one style.

Tire construction has a visible effect on a restored 1964 BMW 3200 because the car’s primary fitments are bias-ply sizes. A bias-ply tire usually preserves the sizing language and overall presentation associated with the car’s era, which is why many restoration-oriented owners begin their search there.

A radial alternative can still be considered for 670-15, especially when road-use goals differ from strict restoration priorities, but it changes the decision from preservation to adaptation. The 670R15 bias-look radial is notable because it bridges those priorities visually, though it still deserves the same checks for wheel width, dimensions, and vehicle clearance.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1964 BMW 3200 even when the original tire sizes are known. Wheel changes, altered wheel width, suspension work, or body and fender modifications can all influence how a 6.50-15, 670-15, or 670-15 radial equivalent sits on the car.

That is why a collector car should be inspected as it exists today, not just as it was built originally. A BMW that has aftermarket wheels or changed ride height may need closer attention to steering clearance and sidewall-to-body space, particularly before moving from the original bias-ply construction to any radial-equivalent option.

Before driving a 1964 BMW 3200 on new tires, inspect the wheels for correct diameter and condition, verify lug hardware, and make sure the tires are mounted in the correct size for the car’s present setup. It is also worth checking inflation, balance, and visible clearance at full steering lock.

Beyond the tires themselves, an older BMW benefits from a broader road-use check. Look over suspension wear, steering play, brake condition, and any signs of rubbing near the wheel openings. A short, careful initial drive helps confirm that the tires track properly and that nothing in the vehicle’s current setup interferes with safe operation.

670-15 tires on a collector 1964 BMW 3200 should be maintained with regular pressure checks, visual inspections, and attention to age-related condition as well as tread. Even a car that sees limited mileage can develop cracking, flat spotting, air loss, or sidewall damage if it spends long periods parked or stored poorly.

Storage conditions matter almost as much as mileage on a collector vehicle. Keeping the BMW away from prolonged sunlight, moisture, excess heat, and ozone sources helps preserve the tires between drives. It also makes sense to inspect them before every outing, especially after long storage, rather than assuming low use automatically means road-ready condition.