1965 DAF Daffodil Tires

The 1965 DAF Daffodil stands apart from many small European cars of its era, combining compact city-car proportions with the distinctive character that makes unusual postwar imports so appealing to collectors today. For owners keeping one on the road, tire choice is part of preserving that light, nimble feel without losing sight of correct proportions. This model uses either a 520-13 bias-ply fitment or a 145R13 radial, both on 13-inch rims. That opens the door to traditional blackwall and whitewall bias-ply choices as well as radial options in the proper size family. The key is deciding whether appearance, road manners, and restoration goals point toward bias-ply or radial construction.

Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1965 DAF Daffodil

The 1965 DAF Daffodil uses two primary tire sizes, and the choice centers on construction rather than wheel diameter since both fit 13-inch rims. One is a traditional 520-13 bias-ply size and the other is a 145R13 radial, so the first step is deciding whether the car is being kept in a more period-style bias-ply format or driven with a radial setup.

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145R13Euro-metric radial
Fit(s): Base
Construction: RadialRim: 13 in

145R13 is a Euro-metric radial size in which 145 refers to nominal section width in millimeters, R indicates radial construction, and 13 identifies the wheel diameter in inches. On a 1965 DAF Daffodil, this size suits owners looking for a radial-format tire on the original 13-inch wheel diameter. Available choices include Michelin and Firestone, both in blackwall form, with series such as Michelin XAS-FF and Firestone F560 Radial. It is a useful option when road use and radial construction matter more than preserving a strictly bias-ply presentation.

Explore 145R13 Tires
2
520-13Numeric bias-ply
Fit(s): Base
Construction: Bias PlyRim: 13 in

520-13 is a numeric bias-ply size in which 5.20 represents the nominal section width in inches and 13 identifies the rim diameter. For the 1965 DAF Daffodil, it preserves the vintage bias-ply format and traditional small-car tire look associated with many mid-1960s applications. Choices in this size include Firestone and Premium Sport tires, with blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall sidewall treatments across Firestone Classic Bias Ply and Premium Sport Lowrider series. It deserves close attention when period-style appearance is the priority or when comparing bias-ply products within the original size family.

Explore 520-13 Tires

1965 DAF Daffodil Sub-Model Tires

Fitment is straightforward for the covered 1965 DAF Daffodil sub-model. The Base model uses the same two size paths, so the main decision is not trim-specific fitment but whether to stay with 520-13 bias-ply or use 145R13 radial construction on the 13-inch wheel diameter.

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1965 DAF Daffodil Base

The 1965 DAF Daffodil Base uses either 520-13 bias-ply or 145R13 radial tires on a 13-inch rim. That means tire selection comes down to construction, sidewall appearance, and the intended use of the car rather than needing to sort out different size fitments between covered configurations.

Associated Tire Sizes

Bias-Ply to Radial Tire Conversion for the 1965 DAF Daffodil

For the original 520-13 bias-ply size, three radial-equivalent options are available. 155R13 is the 80-series metric radial equivalent, P155/75R13 is the P-metric 75-series radial equivalent, and P155/70R13 is the P-metric 70-series radial equivalent. These choices move from traditional metric radial sizing to progressively lower-profile P-metric formats. A recommended rim-width range of 4 to 5 inches applies to these equivalents, so wheel width, overall dimensions, and clearance should be checked before moving away from the bias-ply fitment.

Modern Radial Equivalents
  • 155R13

    Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (520-13)

  • P155/75R13

    Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (520-13)

  • P155/70R13

    Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (520-13)

Important Considerations When Replacing Bias Ply With Radial
  • Compare overall diameter and section width carefully to ensure proper fit.
  • Verify recommended rim range (4-5 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:

  • Wheel modifications (wider rims, offset changes, aftermarket wheels)
  • 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 1965 DAF Daffodil Tires for Sale

Available 1965 DAF Daffodil tire choices include Michelin, Firestone, and Premium Sport options across radial and bias-ply construction. Buyers can compare blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall treatments, along with series such as Michelin XAS-FF, Firestone F560 Radial, Firestone Classic Bias Ply, and Premium Sport Lowrider.

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80 Series Metric Radial

Michelin XAS FF | 145R13

Michelin - Michelin XAS-FF

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER13 in
RIM WIDTH—
WEIGHT18 lb
MAX LOAD—
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80 Series Metric Radial

Firestone F560 Radial Tire | 145R13

Firestone - F560 Radial

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER13 in
RIM WIDTH4.00 - 5.00 in
WEIGHT12.7 lb
MAX LOAD825@44 psi
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Bias Ply

Firestone Bias Ply Siped Upper Sidewall | 520-13

Firestone - Firestone Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLBlackwall
RIM DIAMETER13 in
RIM WIDTH3.5 in
WEIGHT15 lb
MAX LOAD770@32 psi
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Bias Ply

Premium Sport 5/8 Inch Whitewall | 520-13 | New Design

Premium Sport - Premium Sport Lowrider

SIDEWALLNarrow Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER—
RIM WIDTH—
WEIGHT16 lb
MAX LOAD—
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Bias Ply

Premium Sport 1.25 Inch Whitewall | 520-13 | Original Design

Premium Sport - Premium Sport Lowrider

SIDEWALLNarrow Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER13 in
RIM WIDTH3.50 - 4.00 in
WEIGHT16 lb
MAX LOAD1100@60 psi
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Bias Ply

Premium Sport 1.25 Inch Whitewall | 520-13 | New Design

Premium Sport - Premium Sport Lowrider

SIDEWALLNarrow Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER—
RIM WIDTH—
WEIGHT16 lb
MAX LOAD—
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Bias Ply

Firestone 2.00 Inch Whitewall | 520-13

Firestone - Firestone Classic Bias Ply

SIDEWALLWide Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER13 in
RIM WIDTH3.5 in
WEIGHT16 lb
MAX LOAD770@32 psi
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Bias Ply

Premium Sport 5/8 Inch Whitewall | 520-13 | Original Design

Premium Sport - Premium Sport Lowrider

SIDEWALLNarrow Whitewall
RIM DIAMETER13 in
RIM WIDTH3.50 - 4.00 in
WEIGHT16 lb
MAX LOAD1100@60 psi
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Frequently Asked Questions

These 1965 DAF Daffodil tire FAQs focus on the two primary size paths, 13-inch rim fitment, bias-ply versus radial choices, available sidewall styles, and the checks worth making before regular road use.

Tire Size & Fitment

What tire size fits a 1965 DAF Daffodil?

A 1965 DAF Daffodil uses either a 145R13 radial tire or a 520-13 bias-ply tire. Both sizes are associated with this model and both use a 13-inch rim, so the fitment question is less about wheel diameter and more about which construction style matches the car and the owner's goals.

The practical next step is confirming whether the car is being kept in a traditional bias-ply format or converted to a radial setup. Once that decision is made, compare the actual wheel width, the tire's intended appearance, and any suspension or wheel changes that may have been made over time before selecting a specific tire.

What size rim does a 1965 DAF Daffodil use?

The 1965 DAF Daffodil uses a 13-inch rim diameter. That applies to both of its primary tire size paths, with 145R13 representing the radial fitment and 520-13 representing the bias-ply fitment, so the wheel diameter stays consistent even though the construction and size format change.

Rim diameter is only part of the fitment picture on a small vintage car. Wheel width still matters, especially when comparing a bias-ply tire to a radial or considering a radial equivalent for 520-13, so it helps to measure the actual wheels on the car rather than assuming they remain unchanged.

Do all 1965 DAF Daffodil sub-models use the same tire size?

The covered 1965 DAF Daffodil Base sub-model uses the same overall fitment pattern as the model core, with 145R13 radial and 520-13 bias-ply sizes both associated with it. In practice, that means there is not a separate sub-model-specific tire size to sort out within the covered Daffodil range.

Even with shared fitment, tire choice still depends on how the car is being used and presented. A restoration-oriented owner may focus on the period-style look of 520-13, while a driver may be more interested in the 145R13 radial path, so the important check is the car's current wheel and tire setup.

Bias-Ply & Radial Options

Is 520-13 a bias-ply or radial tire for the 1965 DAF Daffodil?

On the 1965 DAF Daffodil, 520-13 is a bias-ply tire size. It uses the vintage numeric sizing system, and the available products in this size follow that traditional construction rather than radial construction, making it the period-style choice for owners who want the older sizing and look.

That matters because a bias-ply tire affects both appearance and tire-selection options. In 520-13, buyers can compare blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall treatments, while a move away from bias-ply should be treated as a conversion decision that calls for checking wheel width, vehicle clearance, and overall setup.

What radial tire sizes are equivalent to 520-13?

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 radial alternatives in the same general fitment family, but they represent different sizing conventions and profile approaches.

A 4 to 5 inch recommended rim-width range is associated with those equivalents, which makes wheel verification especially important before changing sizes. It also helps to compare the car's current wheel width, the tire's overall proportions, and the available clearance at the fenders and suspension before choosing one of these radial alternatives.

Should I use bias-ply or radial tires on a 1965 DAF Daffodil?

Either can be appropriate on a 1965 DAF Daffodil because both a 520-13 bias-ply size and a 145R13 radial size are associated with the model. The right choice depends on whether the car is being kept closer to a period-style presentation or driven with a stronger emphasis on radial construction and modern-size familiarity.

A bias-ply choice keeps the vintage numeric format and opens whitewall options, while the radial path offers dedicated radial products in 145R13 and equivalent radial alternatives from the 520-13 side. The best approach is to confirm the wheel dimensions on the car and decide which construction aligns with appearance goals and actual road use.

Choosing the Right Tire

What should I consider when choosing a 520-13 or 145R13 tire for a 1965 DAF Daffodil?

Start with the correct size family and construction for the way the 1965 DAF Daffodil is being used. 520-13 keeps the car in a bias-ply format, while 145R13 uses a Euro-metric radial format, so the main decision is whether period-style appearance or radial construction is the priority.

From there, compare wheel compatibility, sidewall style, and the character of the available tire series. Blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall choices can noticeably change the car's presentation, and wheel width should be verified before moving between bias-ply and radial formats or considering a radial equivalent.

What sidewall styles are available for 1965 DAF Daffodil tires?

1965 DAF Daffodil tires are available in blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall sidewall styles. The radial 145R13 offerings are blackwall, while the 520-13 bias-ply range includes blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall options, giving owners a broader appearance choice within the vintage numeric size.

That sidewall choice can shape the car's visual tone as much as the size itself. A blackwall tends to keep the look simple and understated, while whitewall variations push the Daffodil toward a more restoration-oriented presentation, so it helps to choose the sidewall style only after settling on bias-ply versus radial construction.

What brands offer tires for the 1965 DAF Daffodil?

Michelin, Firestone, and Premium Sport all offer tires for the 1965 DAF Daffodil within its covered sizes. Michelin and Firestone appear in 145R13 radial choices, while Firestone and Premium Sport cover 520-13 bias-ply options with different sidewall treatments and tire series aimed at different appearance preferences.

Brand alone should not drive the decision on a car like this. It makes more sense to narrow the choice by size, construction, sidewall style, and the visual or driving goal for the car, then compare the individual tire series that match the wheel setup and how the Daffodil is actually used.

Restoration & Appearance

Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1965 DAF Daffodil?

For a period-style 1965 DAF Daffodil, the 520-13 bias-ply size is the natural starting point because it keeps the car in the vintage numeric format and bias-ply construction associated with many small cars of the era. That size also offers the widest appearance range, including blackwall and whitewall presentations.

A restoration-minded choice should balance visual character with the way the car will be driven. If historical detail matters beyond general period style, marque-specific references and original vehicle documentation are worth consulting, then compare the available 520-13 sidewall treatments against the wheel setup and intended use.

How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 1965 DAF Daffodil?

Tire construction changes the look of a restored 1965 DAF Daffodil because the bias-ply 520-13 and radial 145R13 belong to different size traditions. A bias-ply tire preserves the older numeric format and opens up whitewall choices, while a radial gives the car a more modernized tire presentation even on the same 13-inch rim diameter.

That difference matters most on a compact vintage car where the tire and wheel package is visually prominent. Owners focused on a restoration-oriented finish often start with the bias-ply size, while owners building a driver may accept the radial look, so construction choice should support the car's final character rather than fight it.

Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use

Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1965 DAF Daffodil?

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1965 DAF Daffodil even when the tire size itself is correct. Aftermarket wheels, non-stock wheel widths, suspension changes, altered ride height, or body work can all change how a 145R13, 520-13, or a radial equivalent sits within the available space.

A small vintage car leaves less room for assumptions, so it is worth checking steering clearance, fender clearance, and the actual wheel dimensions before mounting new tires. Even with the proper 13-inch rim diameter, changes in wheel width or vehicle stance can alter the way a tire behaves in service.

What should I inspect before driving a 1965 DAF Daffodil on new tires?

Before driving a 1965 DAF Daffodil on new tires, inspect the wheels for the correct 13-inch diameter and suitable width, confirm proper inflation for the tire being used, and look over the suspension and steering for looseness that could affect how the car tracks. It also helps to recheck lug torque after installation.

A short, careful road test is a smart final step on a collector car. Listen for rubbing, watch for unusual steering behavior, and inspect the tires again after the first drive for any signs of interference, air loss, or uneven contact, especially if the car has not been on the road regularly.

How should 520-13 or 145R13 tires on a collector 1965 DAF Daffodil be maintained?

Collector-car tires on a 1965 DAF Daffodil should be inspected regularly for cracking, cuts, bulges, uneven wear, and slow air loss whether the car runs 520-13 bias-ply or 145R13 radial tires. Pressure checks are especially important on low-use vehicles because they often sit longer than regularly driven modern cars.

Storage conditions matter as much as mileage on a vintage Daffodil. Keeping the car away from prolonged sunlight, moisture, heat, and ozone sources helps preserve the tires, and periodic movement can reduce flat-spotting during long storage periods. Any tire showing age-related deterioration deserves close professional inspection before road use.